
When we have clients looking at Cass homes for sale, they sometimes ask us to recommend enjoyable attractions in the area. One of the top places we suggest visiting is Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. Visiting this park can feel like stepping back in time. You not only get to enjoy the region's natural beauty, but you'll also learn a lot about its history. In particular, you will see and learn how the railroad shaped Cass as a historically significant lumber town. Here are some important points to know as you prepare for your visit to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.
- Location
The entrance to Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is located at 242 Main St., Cass, WV 24927. This is just down the street from The Allegheny Trail Cass Trailhead and the Greenbrier River Trail Trailhead, both of which are great options if you're a hiker. The park is also only a few minutes from the town of Cass, where you'll find lots of local restaurants, shops, and other entertainment options.
- Train Rides
One of the key attractions at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is the train rides. The train travels to the overlook at Bald Knob, which is the third-highest point in the state. The view is incredible and a popular choice for photos. There are two train routes to choose from. One takes about 4.5 hours, and the other is a shorter, 2-hour ride. On both rides, you'll listen to a broadcast about Cass Locomotives and the history of the railway.
Train rides take place Tuesday - Sunday. Tickets are available through MountainRailWV.com. You'll be riding on an old steam locomotive, which can be quite loud, so bring earplugs along if your ears are sensitive.
- The Company Store
The Company Store is a general store and gift shop located within Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. It's open daily from 8 am - 8 pm. Many of the souvenirs and gifts are made by local crafters and artists.
Inside the Company Store, you will also find the Shay Restaurant. It is open daily from 9:00 am - 9:00 pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day and serves classic, American fare.
- Cass Historical Theater and Historical Museum
If you'd like to learn more about lumber railroading, the Cass Historical Theater and Historical Museum is the place to go. Located inside the park, this is one of very few lumber railroading museums in the U.S. There are displays showing how logs are cut down and loaded onto the trains, how the trains are powered, and how railroads are made. This is a family-friendly museum, and all are welcome.
- Pickin' on the Porch
Bluegrass and country music are an important part of the culture in Cass. Every Saturday from May until October, you can visit Cass Scenic Railroad State Park for an event called Pickin' on the Porch. Around 5:00 pm, a local musician will set up on the porch of the Visitor's Center and start playing catchy tunes. You're welcome to sing along, play your own banjo, or even do some dancing.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is one of the area's best attractions and a great place to learn more about Cass's history, too. Feel free to contact us if you need help finding a home nearby. Our real estate agents know the area well and can help guide you through the home-buying process.