West Virginia

Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong – West Virginia!

Join us on an incredible journey through West Virginia and its breathtaking Cheat Mountain Range, an expanse that spans over 50 miles and boasts four peaks soaring above 4,800 feet. Immerse yourself in the region’s lush spruce forests, meandering rivers, and rich timber and coal history, all while traversing the landscape aboard three scenic railroads. Revel in panoramic views from the Cass Scenic Railroad en route to Bald Knob, enjoy the elegance of the Greenbrier Express Train, and experience serene beauty aboard The New Tygart Flyer. Our tour’s highlights extend beyond the rails, featuring lunch at The Greenbrier, along with an intriguing Bunker Tour, and a visit to the Green Bank Radio Astronomy Observatory. Delve into the history of railroads at the West Virginia Railroad Museum and indulge in an entertaining dinner show at the Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre. As John Denver famously sang, West Virginia is “Almost Heaven”. This tour promises to show you the best of the state’s picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage!

Please note that this is an active tour and may not be suitable for those with mobility constraints. A valid Canadian passport is required for this tour.

Day 1: Overnight in Morgantown

Board our coach at your designated pickup location this morning as we make our way to Morgantown, West Virginia. We’ll make comfort stops along the way which will include a chance to grab lunch (on your own). On arrival in Morgantown, we will check in to the hotel where we will spend the night. Tonight, you will be able to relax, grab dinner on your own and rest up before a big day ahead.

Day 2: Greenbrier Bunker Tour (B, L, D)

In the morning, you will enjoy an included breakfast at the hotel. Once finished, we will be travelling to visit The Greenbrier. Lunch will be held at the Greenbrier Golf Club in one of their beautiful dining areas. After lunch, we will head over to the historic, massive, underground Bunker at the Greenbrier! This is an incredible experience that takes you behind the scenes, walking you through a fascinating period in the resort’s history. Following your visit to the Greenbrier, you will check into the hotel in Lewisburg. Tonight, you will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by time to visit the shops and galleries on Main Street.

Day 3: Cass Scenic Railroad (B, L)

Once you have finished enjoying an included breakfast at the hotel, we will be leaving Lewisburg for Elkins, where we will stay for a total of 3 nights. Once we’ve settled into our hotel, we will set off to board the Cass Scenic Railroad; the first of 3 classic trains you will have the joy of travelling on in West Virginia! During your train ride, you’ll pass the Cass shop where many locomotives are serviced. You’ll also travel up the mountain towards the two switchbacks, and then a beautiful view opens to the fields and Whittaker Station. A “sack” lunch will be provided on your journey on the train.

Day 4: Green Bank Astronomy Observatory & Greenbrier Express (B, L, D)

After an included breakfast at the hotel in the morning, we will cross into Green Bank – a valley filled with giant satellite dishes. This is the location of the National Astronomy Observatory, which is intentionally located here within the National Quiet Zone. Our group will have included admission to the science centre and will have the opportunity to learn more about the work being conducted here. Following the Astronomy Observatory, we will hop aboard the Greenbrier Express; the second steam engine train ride on our trip in West Virginia. On this 4-hour excursion, you will venture into the wilderness of the Greenbrier River Valley. An included lunch will be provided while onboard the train. Dinner tonight will be held at either the Graceland or Halliehurst Mansions in Elkins.

Day 5: Railroad Museum, New Tygart Flyer and more (B, L, D)

After an included breakfast at the hotel, we will be heading to our final train ride of the tour aboard the New Tygart Flyer. This train will take you past stunning scenery such as free-flowing rivers, historic landmarks and a serene waterfall that’s only accessible by hiking or train riding. After this amazing ride, we will visit the West Virginia Railroad Museum. This evening you will enjoy a premiere dinner show at the Gandy Dancer Dinner Theater. After a wonderful plated dinner, sit back and listen to the fabulous Mountain Memories Show Band as they serve up a 2-hour, Branson-style show with music from the 40’s to the present day.

Day 6: Depart for home (B)

After an included breakfast this morning, we will check out of our hotel and begin the journey home with comfort stops along the way. Our coach will return to our designated pickup locations and bid you farewell!

A deposit of $250.00 is due at the time of booking. Final payment will be due 60 days prior to departure. All payments are non- refundable if you cancel on your own terms. A valid Canadian passport is required. The listed itinerary is only a guideline and is subject to change. Cancellation insurance is highly recommended. Please visit our website for our full terms and conditions: www.cardinalcoachtours.ca/our-policy/