12 Virginia Train Journeys That Showcase Scenic Wonders
Virginia’s rolling hills, historic valleys, and mountain ranges create the perfect backdrop for unforgettable train adventures.
Riding the rails through this beautiful state offers a chance to see landscapes that might otherwise go unnoticed from a car window.
Whether traveling through tunnels carved in the 1850s or gliding past rivers and forests, these journeys bring history and nature together in the most delightful way.
Get ready to discover routes that turn a simple train ride into a memorable experience filled with scenic wonders.
1. Virginia Scenic Railway’s Alleghany Special
Departing from Staunton, this three-hour round-trip adventure takes passengers westward through some of the most stunning valleys in the state.
Rolling through the Shenandoah Valley toward Goshen, riders get treated to sweeping views of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
Onboard dining services add a cozy touch, making the journey feel like a step back in time when train travel meant leisure and comfort.
Families and solo travelers alike find this excursion relaxing and visually rewarding, especially during fall when the foliage bursts into color.
It departs from Amtrak’s Staunton station at 12 Middlebrook Avenue, Staunton, Virginia.
2. Blue Ridge Flyer To Ivy
Heading eastward from Staunton, at Amtrak Train Station, 12 Middlebrook Ave, this three-hour journey offers a ride through the historic Blue Ridge Tunnel, a marvel of 19th-century engineering.
The tunnel itself stretches over 4,000 feet and was hand-carved in the 1850s, making it a fascinating piece of Virginia’s railroad history.
As the train glides through the tunnel and into the open air, passengers are greeted with views of rolling hills and dense woodlands.
Dining options onboard keep everyone comfortable and satisfied throughout the trip, adding to the charm of this nostalgic rail experience.
3. High Bridge Trail State Park Rail Trail
Spanning 31 miles through central and southside Virginia, this shared-use trail welcomes pedestrians, cyclists, and even equestrians.
Use 555 River Road, Farmville, VA 23901, to get here.
The restored crossing at the historic High Bridge offers breathtaking views of the Appomattox River below, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Originally part of a working railroad, the trail now serves as a peaceful path where visitors can enjoy the outdoors at their own pace.
Pack a picnic, bring a bike, or simply walk and take in the river views that make this trail a hidden gem for nature lovers.
4. Blue Ridge Tunnel Linear Park
Walking or biking through a 4,237-foot tunnel carved in the 1850s feels like stepping into a time capsule of engineering history.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel has two trailheads with different addresses.
You can find the East Trailhead at 215 Afton Depot Lane, Afton, and the West Trailhead is located at 483 Three Notched Mountain Hwy, Waynesboro.
The Blue Ridge Tunnel, now part of a linear park, offers a cool, shadowy passage that opens up to stunning mountain views on either side.
It’s a unique way to experience Virginia’s landscape, blending physical activity with a touch of historical exploration.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp for the tunnel section, and enjoy the contrast between the dim, echoing interior and the bright, open scenery beyond.
5. Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail
Located in King George County, this 15.7-mile trail follows an old railroad bed through peaceful rural landscapes and wooded areas.
Part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, it’s perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding on a quiet weekend.
The trail winds gently through the countryside, offering a low-key adventure that feels worlds away from the hustle of city life.
Wildflowers in spring and vibrant leaves in autumn add seasonal beauty to an already charming route that celebrates Virginia’s railroad heritage.
6. Amtrak Cardinal Route Through Virginia
Running between New York and Chicago, the Cardinal route passes through some of Virginia’s most picturesque regions, including the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Passengers can settle into comfortable seats and watch as the landscape shifts from bustling towns to serene mountain vistas.
Large windows on the train make it easy to capture photos or simply enjoy the changing scenery without missing a moment.
This route offers a practical way to travel while also treating riders to views that rival any dedicated scenic railway in the state.
7. Virginia Museum Of Transportation’s Railroad Exhibits
While not a journey on the rails, this Roanoke museum, located at 303 Norfolk Ave SW, Roanoke, offers an up-close look at the locomotives and cars that once carried passengers across the state.
Exhibits include beautifully restored steam engines, vintage passenger cars, and interactive displays that tell the story of Virginia’s railroad history.
Visitors can climb aboard some of the trains, making it a hands-on experience that appeals to all ages.
It’s a perfect stop for anyone fascinated by the mechanics and history behind the scenic journeys that still operate today.
8. New River Trail State Park
Stretching 57 miles along the New River, this rail trail offers one of the longest and most scenic routes for biking, hiking, and horseback riding in Virginia.
The trail follows an old railroad bed, providing a mostly flat and easy path with stunning river views and access to historic bridges and tunnels.
Wildflowers, wildlife, and the gentle sound of the river create a calming atmosphere that makes every mile feel like a mini-vacation.
Pack snacks and water, and plan to spend a full day exploring this beautiful trail that showcases Virginia’s natural beauty.
9. Guest River Gorge Trail
Tucked away in southwest Virginia, this 5.8-mile trail follows an old railroad route through a stunning river gorge with towering rock walls.
The path is relatively easy, making it accessible for families and casual hikers who want to enjoy the dramatic scenery without a strenuous climb.
Several historic railroad features, including bridges and tunnels, add interest and a sense of adventure to the journey.
Autumn is especially beautiful here, with colorful leaves contrasting against the gray cliffs and the clear, flowing water of the Guest River below.
10. Huckleberry Trail In Blacksburg
This 7.5-mile paved trail connects Blacksburg and Christiansburg, following an old railroad corridor through a mix of wooded areas and open fields.
Popular with locals and visitors alike, the trail is perfect for a morning jog, a leisurely bike ride, or a family outing with strollers.
The flat, well-maintained surface makes it accessible year-round, and the tree canopy provides shade during warmer months.
It’s a community favorite that showcases how old rail lines can be transformed into vibrant, multi-use spaces that everyone can enjoy.
11. Virginia Capital Trail Near Richmond
Stretching 52 miles between Richmond and Williamsburg, this trail follows historic routes and offers a mix of river views, wooded stretches, and open farmland.
While not exclusively a rail trail, portions follow old railroad corridors, blending history with modern outdoor recreation.
The trail is paved and mostly flat, making it ideal for long-distance cycling or multi-day adventures with camping stops along the way.
Springtime blooms and fall colors add seasonal charm, and the proximity to historic sites makes it a culturally rich journey as well.
12. Tobacco Heritage Trail In South Boston
This developing trail system in southside Virginia follows old tobacco railway routes, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural and railroad past.
As sections continue to open, visitors can explore quiet, rural landscapes that feel untouched by time, with wide-open skies and gentle terrain.
It’s a peaceful escape for those who enjoy solitude and a slower pace, perfect for walking or easy biking through the countryside.
Keep an eye on updates as more miles become accessible, turning this trail into a longer, more connected journey through Virginia’s tobacco country.
