All Aboard for an Appalachian Adventure
Photo courtesy of the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
The phrase “It’s not about the destination—it’s about the journey” must’ve been coined by a train passenger. After all, there’s no better way to travel around Grant County than the one-of-a-kind Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad.
Grab your camera and a pair of binoculars and take a seat. You’re in for a ride to remember.
Eye Up Some Eagles
The railroad is celebrating the United States’ 250th birthday with discounted rates on almost all rides—including the finest of first-class packages. Fittingly, the Potomac Eagle presents countless opportunities to spot American outdoor icons that have been captivating artists, mountaineers, and nature lovers since the country’s founding.
Winding rivers, high-elevation ecosystems, and old-growth forests—these are some of the greatest natural wonders of the Potomac Highlands. And they’re also home to the wonderful wildlife you’re likely to see on your trip. Bald eagles, black bears, great blue herons, and white-tailed deer. These are just a few of the animals often spotted from the luxury of the Potomac Eagle.
Got any birdwatcher friends? They’re guaranteed to love it here in Grant County.
Local Lore
In between awed exclamations at bald eagles soaring by, you can learn a thing or two about local history.
This region played prominent roles in the French and Indian War as well as the Civil War. Along the routes, historic homes from the colonial area still stand tall. This land's got stories to tell, and train employees are more than happy to act as its mouthpiece—so listen closely to the live narration and speak up if you have questions.
Photographed by Carla Witt Ford
Take a Tour
All of the train rides are worth the trip, but this one has a special place in our hearts. The All Day Petersburg ride is a nine-hour trip with an approximately three-hour layover in Petersburg. When you arrive in this picturesque example of small-town Appalachia, you get to choose your own adventure.
Stay and explore Petersburg, where you can grab a bite to eat at the historic Hermitage Inn & Taphouse, then pick up a souvenir at South Side Depot? Or venture into the Earth and tour Smoke Hole Caverns, an ancient geological formation in the Spruce Knob–Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area?
It’s too hard to choose—you may as well book a room at Hermitage Inn or Smoke Hole Resort and make a weekend of it.
No matter what type of adventure you’re seeking, you’re guaranteed scenic views and lifelong memories when you step aboard the Potomac Eagle and tour what Grant County has to offer. We can’t wait to show you around.