Departing Dallas/ Ft. Worth Metroplex and Little Rock

Day 1 – Memphis

Train travel, not just the destination, makes for a special journey. In this case West Virginia with its Music, Mountains and Railroads is an added bonus!

(D) Overnight: Memphis, Tennessee

Day 2 – Mammoth Cave National Park

An afternoon stop brings us to Mammoth Cave National Park to see amazing formations on the “Frozen Niagara Tour.” This easy-walking entrance was created in 1924 and makes it possible to see the decorative area of the cave. During our overnight stop in Elizabethtown, stroll around the historical downtown area, as seen in the movie by the same name.

(B,D) Overnight: Elizabethtown, Kentucky  

Day 3 – Fenton Art Glass

West Virginia is home of the famous Fenton Art Glass and while in the area, we’ll take a factory tour, where skilled glassworkers use the tools and techniques of centuries ago to create beautiful art glass.

(B,D) Overnight: Parkersburg, West Virginia

Day 4 – Blennerhassett Mansion & Island/ American Mountain Theater

A boat ride on the majestic Ohio River brings us to Blennerhassett Island. We’ll learn of the mansion’s dubious distinction of being the place where Aaron Burr and Harman Blennerhassett planned an expedition considered treasonous by President Thomas Jefferson. Today’s visitors enjoy the island’s tranquility, the natural beauty of the plant life, huge trees and varied wildlife, plus the beauty of the restored Blennerhassett Mansion. Afterwards, we depart for our overnight stop in Elkins, billed as “the next Branson” where a theatre performance is scheduled at the American Mountain Theater.

(B,D) Overnight: Elkins, West Virginia

Day 5 – Tygart Flyer Train

West Virginia is a train lover’s paradise and the colorful fall season is the perfect time to visit. Our ride today on the Tygart Flyer features two separate mountain grades, an “S” curve tunnel, passage into a 1,500 feet deep canyon with forested slopes and a high bridge over the rushing waters of Shavers Fork of the Cheat River. This climate-controlled passenger train offers a smooth ride and includes a lunch.

(B,L) Overnight: Barboursville, West Virginia

Day 6 – New River Gorge Train/ Pipestem Resort State Park

Today’s train excursion is on the world famous New River Train, traveling through the famed ”Grand Canyon of the East,” West Virginia’s New River Gorge. Now, one of the newest national parklands, the gorge country is highlighted with October fall tree colors. The route is through remote areas only accessible via rail, hiking or rafting. One of the most beautiful scenes from the train’s vantage point is of Sandstone Falls. Our one-way journey arrives in Hinton, where a street fair is going on, complete with local food stands, arts and crafts, entertainment and other attractions. And topping off the day’s memorable experience, our accommodations are at the Pipestem Resort.

(B) Overnight: Pipestem, West Virginia

Day 7 – Fall Color

Through the mountains, valleys and forested areas of West Virginia, Virginia and Tennessee, more amazing fall color lights our way today. Prepare to be charmed by the matchless mountains and rich historical heritage of our overnight stop.

(B,D) Overnight: Cookeville, Tennessee  

Day 8 – Casey Jones Village

In keeping with our rail theme, we’ll pause for an included lunch at the Casey Jones Village in Jackson, Tennessee. Enjoy time in the new 8,000 square feet train station, full of family fun, life size trains and a train store full of Casey Jones and railroad themed gifts.  

(B,L) Overnight: Little Rock, Arkansas

Day 9 – Homeward Bound

“Riding the rails” has been a blast, but now it’s time to return home with many special memories.

(B)