Trough Canyon

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Trough Canyon is our most popular excursion. Join us for an authentic Appalachian railroad journey across scenic countryside to see American bald eagles in their canyon home. An excursion highlight is the iconic view into the Trough Canyon at Sycamore Bridge as you cross the historic South Branch Potomac River.

  • Experience a remote West Virginia canyon habitat
  • 3 hour round trip, no layover
  • Our most popular railroad destination to see American bald eagles
  • Choose from 5 Classes of Service for your dining preference
  • Immerse yourself in nature on our open-top Gondola car
  • Narrated historical trip with timeless scenic views
  • Outdoor recreation (birding, photography & sightseeing)

1PM, 2:30PM & 5PM Menu

Whether your mood is sweet or spicy we have a meal service selection to satisfy your taste.

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Oct 10 AM Menu

Let us prepare your railroad dining experience in a unique and relaxing atmosphere.

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Canyon Overview

Learn more about Trough Canyon to enhance your wilderness exploration.

Canyon

Your Itinerary

Couple enjoying the trough trip

We have several different departure times for our Trough Canyon trips

10:00 AM Trip

  • Check in at the ticket window between 8:30 AM to 9:30 AM 
  • Boarding is at 9:30 AM
  • Meal service begins upon departure 
  • Return to Station at 1:00 PM

1:00 PM Trip

  • Check in at the ticket window between 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM
  • Boarding is at 12:30 PM
  • Meal service begins upon departure 
  • Return to Station at 4:00 PM

2:30 PM Trip

  • Check in at the ticket window between 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
  • Boarding is at 2:00 PM
  • Meal service begins upon departure 
  • Return to Station at 5:30 PM

Classes of Service and Pricing

Potomac Eagle comes with five classes of service.  You choose the best option for your railroad experience from Superior comfort and dining to casual Coach and concessions.

Club Service

Ready to feel like royalty? These beautifully restored 1950s club cars offer cozy loveseats with tables and booths and are climate-controlled for your comfort needs. The classic, stylish setting invokes memories of the days of luxury rail travel and helps guests immerse themselves in their railroad dining experience.  With 5 courses of heavy hors d’oeuvres/desserts and expansive views of the rolling countryside, you’ll enjoy every moment in these unique vintage cars.

  • Adults (17+ Only): $145

Superior Dining

Our 1940s dining cars with table service are climate-controlled to provide air conditioning or heat throughout the car. With our most upgraded 4-course meal service, you will enjoy delicious dining in a relaxing setting.  Expansive windows allow guests to ride, dine, and explore throughout their journey.

  • Adults (17+ Only): $145

Premium Dining

When you upgrade to Premium Dining, you’ll enjoy 3- course meal service in our comfortable dining cars. These cars have outstanding window views and are climate controlled so you are perfectly relaxed during your trip.

  • All Ages (2+): $120
  • Lap Children (0-23 mos): Free

Standard Dining

Explore your casual-yet-classy side in our Standard Dining Cars.  Enjoy your railway boxed lunch served in our vintage coach cars.  Tabletop/chair style seating creates a comfortable and nostalgic trip.  These cars have limited heating and windows which open and close to provide great viewing and ventilation.

  • Adults (17-59): $95
  • Adults (60+): $85
  • Children (2-16): $60
  • Lap Children (0-23 mos): Free

Standard Coach

Our 1920s coaches are great for groups and families.  The cars have cushioned, bench-style seats with reversible backs so passengers can face in either direction and enjoy the scenery. The windows offer abundant views and can be opened for refreshment.  The coach cars do not have total climate control, but there is limited heat availability and meal service provided by the concession car.

  • Adults (17-59): $70
  • Adults (60+): $65
  • Children (2-16): $40
  • Lap Children (0-23 mos): FREE

A concession car is available to purchase snacks and drinks.  Cash only. 
Oversized bags and coolers are NOT permitted.

Casey Nuttle
Casey Nuttle
October 23, 2023
We had a great time in the club car. Our server, Tawnya, was fantastic. We were able to see 4 eagle nest and 6 eagles. Great trip!
Nacoma Mayhugh
Nacoma Mayhugh
October 21, 2023
We enjoyed the afternoon. Appreciated being able to ride in the open car. Were not able to hear the gentleman there giving instructions as to where to look for eagles, nests or deer... The boxed lunch was better than expected, except the minimal amount of turkey on sub. Great chips, apple, and cookie. All staff were lovely.
Errol Poole
Errol Poole
October 21, 2023
Had a great time .saw 12 eagles today love
Sandy Carson
Sandy Carson
October 20, 2023
Comfy ride and really liked the open car. Weather was good and great seeing eagles.
ELMER BEARD
ELMER BEARD
October 19, 2023
Terrific service and scenery. Took the 3 hr trough train excursion. Had several sightings of mature and young bald eagles. The standard dining box lunch was terrific. Great staffa
Paul
Paul
October 18, 2023
A nice ride with lunch! Very pleasant and knowledgeable staff. 5 stars just for the staff. Saw 5 or 6 eagles and other birds, geese, merganzers, wood ducks. Falk colors will peak soon. Highly recommend!