Park Overview
Step back in time to when steam locomotives were part of everyday life at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. This unique destination blends rich Appalachian history with sweeping mountain views and the atmosphere of a classic lumber town.
The park’s 11-mile heritage railroad and preserved company town are among West Virginia’s most popular attractions. Visitors can explore the historic Company Store—home to a gift shop as well as Shays Restaurant and Soda Fountain (hours listed under “dining” below). Other highlights include an artisans’ co-op and the Cass Historical Theater and Museum, one of the few authentic lumber railroading museums in the United States.
The visitor center operates Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the summer season. In winter (November 1–March 31), hours change: the Company Store is open Sunday–Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Thursday–Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. It is closed on Christmas Day.
Park History
The town of Cass has remained remarkably preserved since its founding in 1901 by the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company. It was originally built as a company town for loggers working in the surrounding mountains. Construction of the railroad also began in 1901, designed to transport freshly cut timber down to the mill in Cass.
Over time, the line was extended all the way to Bald Knob, the third-highest peak in West Virginia. In 1942, operations were sold to the Mower Lumber Company, which continued running the town until 1960, when the mill and railroad shut down due to the rapid decline of the regional timber industry.
In 1961, Cass was incorporated into the state park system, and by 1977 the company town itself was fully included as well. What was once an industrial logging route was gradually restored into a scenic tourist railroad. Today, the line is still in operation and managed by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, keeping the steam-era experience alive for visitors.