2025 is the yr of the Dupe. No, not dupe such as you’ll fall for the ol’ three-card Monte trick; dupe as in journey alternate options.
Exhausting to consider it has been years for the reason that pandemic was declared over, however one factor has develop into more and more clear to this present day — journey is again.
Whether or not it’s famend resorts offered out night time after night time, having to unnecessarily check bags, or being compelled to share selfies in what-should-be extensive open plains of nationwide or state parks, vacationers are embracing their sense of wanderlust all of the over the world, leaving the door open to find extra hidden gems.
Relating to the U.S., one might argue Alaska is America’s least-explored state, however on the mainland, it is gotta be West Virginia, proper?
Identified extra for its deeply rooted historical past of coal mining and longstanding tales of Appalachian folklore, those that have visited West Virginia usually come out the opposite aspect shocked by how stunning the “Mountain State” actually is ,particularly being residence to America’s most underrated state park.
West Virginia, Take Me…To Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Something beats counting bottles of beer on the wall, however let’s not even faux there’s a greater street journey music than Take Me Dwelling, Nation Roads.
We have all belted out West Virginia’s unofficial theme music at one level or one other, however hardly ever will we ever scope out the state itself for a pleasant, stress-free getaway.
Full disclosure – West Virginia has usually discovered itself on the incorrect aspect of headlines as quite a few former coal mining hubs are nothing however ghost cities lately, leaving locals dwelling in poverty in some instances, and holding the best loss of life fee for overdoses within the nation, in response to the CDC.
These very headlines, together with darkish mysteries of Appalachia, have forged a shadow over the intense spots of West Virginia folks have lengthy been lacking out on — considered one of them being Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.
Those that have visited completely find it irresistible! The park’s Google score stands at a powerful 4.7 out of 5, with one current visitor claiming, “My household and I actually loved this journey. Stunning surroundings, educated employees. Good locations to remain close by and good locations to eat. There’s a lot to do. Lunch was supplied with our prepare trip. 10/10 would suggest!”.
All Aboard The Cass Scenic RailRoad!
Positioned in blink-and-you’ll-miss-it city of Cass, this huge state park is residence to breathtaking mountain vistas, historical forests, and mazes of mountaineering trails to discover, however many go for the a scenic prepare trip courtesy of Mountain Rail West Virginia, providing seasonal packages on the Cass Scenic Railroad all year long.
Better of all, come Might, the historic locomotive is bringing again 3 routes with beautiful views of waterfalls, lush wilderness, and rustic cities like Durbin nestled within the mountains.
These are Cass Scenic Railroad’s present excursions:
New Tygart Flyer (working April – November) –
TLC was incorrect on this one; you will positively need to chase waterfalls. Get pleasure from snug, climate-controlled coaches, a cold-cut lunch, and gorgeous views of Excessive Falls of Cheat, the area’s dazzling pure marvel, together with flowing rivers, and sky-high bridges.
Waterfall excursions start Might 4, 2025.
Greenbriar Categorical (working Might – October) –
Aforementioned Durbin is the spotlight of this route. Departing from Cass, the Greenbrier Categorical affords a scenic journey to considered one of West Virginia’s most picturesque cities exuding timeless appeal with common shops, Mother & Pop eateries, all backdropped by astounding wilderness of Monongahela Nationwide Forest.
Cass Bald Knob Journey (working Might – October) –
Hope you are not afraid of heights! This 4.5 hour trek to Bald Knob takes passengers upwards of two,300 toes for breathtaking views of Appalachian landscapes starting from spruce forests and staggering mountains as that is the second highest level in West Virginia.
Cass Whitaker Station (working Might – October) –
Taking 2 hours round-trip, visitors can hop aboard century-old trains and chug alongside scenic meadows and rolling hills, finally reaching Whitaker Station to deep dive into the world’s historic logging operations.
This route features a 30 minute break to soak up sweeping views of the countryside and peruse the recreated logging camp and intriguing reveals.
Hire A Spacious Cabin
Tenting is not for everybody. That is why “glamping” has develop into extra common, however who would ever flip down a cabin within the woods?
In truth, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park’s cabins is perhaps one of the best of all as a result of they home as much as 14 folks comfortably with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom layouts.
These “cabins”, described as ‘restored firm homes’, have been previously quarters for loggers again within the day however now function actually distinctive stays to make your base for exploring the park or indulging within the delights of Cass’s small city appeal.
Homes can be found year-round and may be booked instantly here with charges beginning at $105 per night time this spring and upwards of $180 this summer season.
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This text initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed below are the writer’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, resort, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, permitted or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included inside the publish.