Romney, WV
Photo by jpmueller99 from Shenandoah Valley of VA, USA, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
About Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad departs from Romney, West Virginia, and travels westward along the South Branch Potomac River to Moorefield, with occasional extensions to Petersburg. The excursion follows the historic Baltimore and Ohio line through “The Trough,” a narrow gorge celebrated for frequent bald‑eagle sightings. Diesel‑powered trains glide past forested bluffs and river bends, offering passengers panoramic views of the river’s winding course and the surrounding Appalachian landscape.
At a Glance
Verified daily- Type
- Heritage railroad & tourist attraction
- Location
- Romney, WV
- Rating
- 4.5 ★ 1,606 Google reviews
- Upcoming
- Fri, Jul 17
Upcoming Events
Show all 24 events
Plan Your Visit
- Parking
- Free lot
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance · accessible restroom · accessible parking
- Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMSunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Find the Depot
The Trains
The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad runs its diesel‑powered excursions over the former Baltimore and Ohio line owned by the West Virginia State Rail Authority, traveling between Green Spring and Petersburg while its regular passenger trips depart from Romney and head to Moorefield, with occasional extensions to Petersburg. Its roster includes four early‑model units: an F7A numbered 722 (ex‑Bessemer and Lake Erie, repainted in a Baltimore & Ohio livery), an FP9A 1755 (ex‑Algoma Central), a GP9 6604 (ex‑B&O “torpedo‑boat” unit restored to its original livery), a GP9 6240 (ex‑Chesapeake & Ohio in Chessie System colors), and a GP9/GP9U 8250 (ex‑Canadian Pacific), all owned by the South Branch Valley Railroad.
History
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The South Branch Valley Railroad is created by the state of West Virginia in 1978 to take over a Baltimore and Ohio line that the B&O abandoned. Beginning in 1989, the West Virginia State Rail Authority and local advocates work to bring an excursion operator to the line. The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad launches its heritage‑excursion service in 1991, using the state‑owned track while freight service continues under the South Branch Valley Railroad. This partnership allows the line to remain active for freight on weekdays and open for tourist trains on most weekends.
Around the Depot
From the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad in West Virginia, the Western Maryland Scenic Railway makes a natural second stop about 20 mi away.
Getting There & Staying Nearby
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Rent a Car
Most heritage railroads sit well off the interstate. Picking up a rental at the nearest airport is usually the easiest way in.
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Tours & Activities near Romney
Tours
Guided tours, day trips, and things to do around the area, bookable in advance through Viator.
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