Welcome aboard the
Potomac Eagle
Scenic Railroad
Enjoy a festive atmosphere complete with holiday music, cheerful decorations, and a dining experience inspired by the season. This trip is a perfect way to embrace the winter beauty of Trough Canyon and escape the holiday hustle.
North Pole Express
The North Pole Express is a festive 75-minute train ride filled with storytelling, and holiday cheer. Watch characters from our Holiday production of โThe Nutcrackerโ dance through your car and discover how โThe Potomac Eagle Saves Christmas.โ
Holiday Trough
Enjoy a 3-hour winter canyon cruise with festive dining and holiday music. Witness the peaceful winter setting of Trough Canyon and observe bald eagles preparing for their nesting season as you escape the holiday chaos in a serene, picturesque environment.
North Pole Express
On the Train:
- Duration: 75-minute interactive train ride
- Refreshments: Milk and Mrs. Claus’ famous cookies
- Entertainment: Storytelling of “Yes, West Virginia, There is a Santa Claus” and caroling
- Special Guests: Santa boards the train at the North Pole with a gift for every child
At the Event Barn:
- Activities: Letters to Santa, coloring stations, live animals, Nativity scene
- Refreshments: Hot cocoa, snacks, and sโmores pits (additional cost, cash only)
- Photo Ops: Beautiful holiday-themed photo opportunities
- Entertainment: Music and activities to immerse you in the holiday spirit
*Additional cost “Cash Only”
First Class
1PM, 3PM, 5PM & 7PM:
- Adults (17+): $67
- Children (2-16): $57
- Lap Children (0-23 mos): Free
Standard Coach
1PM, 3PM, 5PM & 7PM:
- Adults (17+): $57
- Children (2-16): $47
- Lap Children (0-23 mos): FREE
**Please note: As we prepare for a magical holiday season, we want to let you know that our vintage Christmas trains are winterized, and due to the live production onboard, we kindly ask guests to use the bathroom facilities at the station before boarding.
We understand emergencies can happen, and we are prepared to assist if needed during the ride.
Thank you for your understanding, and we canโt wait to welcome you aboard!
Nature Sightings
Get ready for an exhilarating adventure as you spot wild animals right along the river during your excursion! Make the most of your wildlife viewing experience by discovering fascinating facts about the creatures you might encounter along the way.
American Bald Eagle
The bald eagle, a symbol of freedom and namesake of the Potomac Eagle, thrives in The Trough, a remote canyon in West Virginia. Accessible only by walking, boating, or the Potomac Eagle train, this sanctuary provides clean water and fish-rich rivers, creating an ideal habitat. Known for their size, bald eagles build nests on rugged canyon walls, visible from the train and reused each year.
Recovery: Once endangered by DDT, bald eagles made a significant recovery after its ban in the 1970s. Their return marked a milestone during Potomac Eagleโs first cruise in 1991. Today, Potomac Eagle is the only passenger train through The Trough, offering a unique chance to see these majestic birds in their natural setting. Bald eagles are a keystone species, vital to the canyonโs ecosystem.
American Black Bear
Spotting a black bear in the wild is an exhilarating experience for Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad passengers. These sightings, whether of solitary bears or mothers with cubs, add excitement to our excursions. Black bears, adaptable and resilient, are often seen crossing tracks or moving through dense forests along our route, thrilling passengers with their presence.
A thrilling sight is a mother bear with cubs, who stay with her for about a year and a half, learning survival skills. Adult black bears can weigh between 100 to 300 pounds, while cubs are smaller and more agile. These summer sightings highlight the rich wildlife and thriving ecosystems along our route. Join us on the Potomac Eagle to observe these creatures in their natural habitat.
Great Blue Heron
The Great Blue Heron, with its striking appearance and graceful movements, is a captivating sight along the South Branch Potomac River. Often seen wading or perched on riverbanks, these elegant birds add serene beauty to the landscape for Potomac Eagle passengers. Skilled hunters, they primarily feed on fish, and their patience and precision are marvelous to observe.
As you journey through The Trough, watch the riverbanks for herons wading gracefully. Their wingspans, up to six feet, are stunning, especially in flight. Seeing a heron take off as the train approaches is a memorable experience, enhancing the scenic beauty. The presence of Great Blue Herons indicates a healthy ecosystem, enriching the Potomac Eagle journey.
White-Tailed Deer
The white-tailed deer, a symbol of North Americaโs wildlife, is crucial to West Virginiaโs natural heritage. Early 20th-century conservation efforts, including importing deer from Michigan, restored their population. Today, these deer thrive along the Potomac Eagle train route, often seen grazing, drinking from the South Branch Potomac River, or crossing the tracks.
These sightings underscore successful conservation efforts, enhancing the Potomac Eagle journeyโs scenic experience. The presence of white-tailed deer connects passengers to the rich wildlife tapestry of the region. Encounters with these deer, whether a solitary buck or a doe in the woods, remind us of West Virginiaโs natural beauty and vitality.
Historic Narration
The Potomac Eagleโs journey began in 1991, inspired by a vision to create a scenic train experience. This vision evolved into a beloved tradition, connecting our trains with the rich heritage of local communities and their cultural stories.
Onboard, our live narration enriches your trip with insights into the regionโs past, including significant local history and cultural traditions. Our knowledgeable guides and friendly staff enhance your experience by spotting eagles for you in Trough Canyon, sharing the fascinating story of the bald eagles, and helping you explore this storied landscape.
Explore Route
Explore your excursion route with this interactive map! Discover breathtaking sights and historical landmarks along the way. Start planning your adventure today!
Spotlight News and Mentions
Testimonials
Discover what customers are raving about! Check out their testimonials about these great excursions and services.
“This is the train ride to take. There are great views throughout the ride, and probably saw over a dozen bald eagles. Everything on this train ride was enjoyable.”
DonnieFromOhioLocal Guide
“We couldn't recommend this enough. It was an amazing time with very polite and friendly staff who stopped and talked with us. Very relaxing train ride with stunning surroundings with wildlife and especially eagles throughout the trough.”
Vicky PeplowLocal Guide
“We had the packed lunch option and we're impressed. It was a delicious sandwich and lots of chips, cookies and even fruit. The staff were all helpful and organized. It was a fabulous trip and we did see eagles!”
Michele CoppLocal Guide
“Absolutely perfect. Everyone was very nice, the food was terrific, and the trip was beautiful and relaxing.”
William Bruck