Mountain Rivers & Rails: Autumn in Appalachia

Package Prices Per Person:

$1695 Double

$2250 Single

$1595 triple

$1495 quad

Tour Dates: October 7-14, 2025

 

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian scenery as you journey through the Mountaineer State by river and rail and behold America's newest National Park - the New River Gorge National Park. This National Park boasts stunning and dramatic landscapes, lush forests, and the awe-inspiring New River Gorge Bridge, one of the world's largest arch bridges. Witness the magic of autumn as the leaves transform into a vibrant display of colors. Embark on two unforgettable train excursions that will showcase the wild and wonderful essence of West Virginia. Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride on the New River, marveling at the engineering marvel that is the New River Gorge Bridge. Delve into the depths of an old coal mine with a former coal worker as your guide, taking an underground cart ride through history. Capture the beauty of the landscapes with inspiring photos and create memories that will last a lifetime. Join us on this adventure of a lifetime and discover why West Virginia is a truly wild and wonderful destination.

We will depart from Little Rock and spend the night in Kentucky before reaching our first destination in Randolph County, West Virginia. As we arrive, you will be greeted by the fresh mountain breeze of the lush Monongahela National Forest and have the opportunity to explore the many historic sites. Tonight, we have a special dinner planned at the nearby Gandy Dinner Theater. Indulge in a delicious meal while enjoying an amazing show where talented performers pay tribute to musical legends such as Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, John and June Cash, Elvis, and many more. It is officially fall, and you will surely fall in love with one of the greatest shows in West Virginia, setting the perfect tone for our adventure.

The following day, we will embark on our first railway adventure aboard the Cass Scenic Railroad. This historic line, originally built in 1901 for lumber transportation, has been transformed into a comfortable passenger rail. As the train ascends through the lofty Appalachians, the panoramic views become increasingly breathtaking. You will feel as though you are entering a whole new world, surrounded by different trees, flowers, and atmosphere. Upon reaching the summit of Back Allegheny Mountain, the second highest point in West Virginia, you will experience a climate similar to that of Canada due to the higher altitude. Here, you will encounter spruce trees, snowshoe hares, and other flora and fauna typically found in the far north. The rustic overlook provides a truly awe-inspiring spectacle, offering one of the most overwhelming views in the eastern United States. Lunch will be provided during our rail adventure. After our railway journey, we will enjoy a second dinner show that will transport you back to the musical era of the 50s and 60s. Get ready to laugh, cry, and maybe even dance as you immerse yourself in the nostalgia.

On our second day, we will embark on a thrilling train adventure aboard The New Tygart Flyer. This wilderness excursion promises breathtaking mountain grades, an exhilarating "S" curve tunnel, a towering high bridge, and endless miles of unspoiled mountain views. Vintage diesel-powered locomotives will carry us along the cascading Shavers Fork of the Cheat River to the majestic High Falls of Cheat. Prepare to be mesmerized by the serene beauty of the mountains as we relax and indulge in the most luxurious mountain wilderness experience. During our journey to the Falls, we will be treated to a delicious lunch, included in the package. The highlight of the trip awaits us at the High Falls of Cheat, an impressive 18-foot high, 150-foot wide waterfall nestled in one of the most secluded and pristine locations in the region. If you seek comfort and unparalleled views aboard a vintage train, this ride is tailor-made for you! After a night of rest, we will set off the next day for America's newest national park, just a short 2-hour drive away.

Our next two days and nights we'll explore the majestic New River Gorge, one of the newest national parks in the US and a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This iconic treasure is a haven for travelers seeking rugged peaks, scenic rivers, and breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe. Home to some of the most striking sights in West Virginia, including the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, this area boasts stunning scenery that is particularly enchanting during the vibrant hues of autumn. The free-flowing whitewater river that winds through deep canyons is estimated to be 10-360 million years old, making it the second-oldest river in the world and a vital part of American heritage. Don't be fooled by the name - the New River Gorge isn't "new" but steeped in history, with Native Americans calling this land home long before fur traders arrived in the 1600s. Our journey will include a delicious lunch at one of the state park lodges before embarking on a thrilling jet boat ride along the river. Experience The Gorge from the comfort of a Waterman jetboat as we travel upstream, taking in the spectacular views of the bridge and the surrounding landscape. But the adventure doesn't end there. We will also enjoy an aerial tramway ride above the national park, offering a bird's eye view of the stunning fall foliage. Our two-night stay in the area will include a second day exploring the national park, as well as a fascinating underground cart ride through an old coal mine led by a former coal worker - a true taste of West Virginia's rich history. As we bid farewell to West Virginia, we will make one final stop in Pigeon Forge for a fun overnight stay before heading back home to Arkansas. Don't miss out on this journey through breathtaking Appalachia in the autumn.

Included in the price for this tour are:

• Roundtrip motorcoach transportation

• 8 days/7 nights lodging

• Two scenic train rides through West Virginia with included lunch on both train rides

• 12 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinner shows)

• New River Gorge National Park

• New River Jet Boat Ride in National Park

• Aerial Tramway in New River National Park

• Coal Miner's Underground Cart Tour

• Sandstone Falls Overlook

• Legends Dinner Show

• Tribute to 40s, 50s, and 60s Dinner Show

• The Island in Pigeon Forge

• Settlers Museum

• Tamarack Marketplace

• LRT Guide

• All taxes and fees