Travel in time behind our recently resotred steam engine No. 1309!
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US 40 Scenic National Road Cumberland Frostburg

4.6
·3k reviews·Cumberland, United States

Ride a historic steam train through stunning mountain scenery, with unique themed excursions and a glimpse into coal mining history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall weekends

Peak foliage and steam engine operation

CrowdHigh
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Travel in time behind our recently resotred steam engine No. 1309!

US 40 Scenic National Road Cumberland Frostburg

Best Time

Fall weekends

Peak foliage and steam engine operation

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride a historic steam train through stunning mountain scenery, with unique themed excursions and a glimpse into coal mining history.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"The train is awesome. The views are stunning. I had a great time."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book in advance! 🎟️

Secure your preferred seats, especially for popular themed rides or if you want a table for two.

Open-air car caution 💨

Embrace the soot and ash for a full experience, or choose enclosed cars for a cleaner ride.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Steam Locomotive 1309

Steam Locomotive 1309

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Experience the power and nostalgia of a fully restored steam engine chugging up the mountain.

Scenic Mountain Views

Scenic Mountain Views

Along the train route

Breathtaking vistas unfold as the train ascends through picturesque valleys and forests.

Open-Air Car Experience

Open-Air Car Experience

Open-air car

Feel the wind and embrace the elements, but be ready for a bit of soot and ash!

Coal Miner History

Coal Miner History

Cumberland Trail

Learn about the region's rich industrial past through informative walls and a small museum.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic Journey

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers a unique journey through stunning landscapes. Consider booking in advance, especially for themed excursions or if you want specific seating. Be prepared for potential soot if you opt for open-air cars, a common experience shared by travelers.

Frostburg & Cumberland Insights

While Cumberland offers historical charm and the train station, some visitors find Frostburg's downtown less vibrant with many closures. Focus your exploration on the train experience, the trail, and the museum in Cumberland for a more fulfilling visit.

Best Times

When
Fall weekends
Why
Peak foliage and steam engine operation
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Themed excursion dates
Why
Unique experiences
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad 1309 rests at Frostburg after pulling the town's namesake Flyer from Cumberland. 10/7/2022

Book in advance! 🎟️

Secure your preferred seats, especially for popular themed rides or if you want a table for two.

Open-air car caution 💨

Embrace the soot and ash for a full experience, or choose enclosed cars for a cleaner ride.

reddit.com

Weekend Trip To Frostburg/Cumberland?

Pack snacks & drinks 🍎

While food is available, bringing your own can enhance your meal experience in the dome car.

Frostburg focus 🚶‍♀️

Enjoy the train stop in Frostburg, but know that downtown shops may be closed.

Tips

from all over the internet

Book in advance! 🎟️

Secure your preferred seats, especially for popular themed rides or if you want a table for two.

Open-air car caution 💨

Embrace the soot and ash for a full experience, or choose enclosed cars for a cleaner ride.

Pack snacks & drinks 🍎

While food is available, bringing your own can enhance your meal experience in the dome car.

Frostburg focus 🚶‍♀️

Enjoy the train stop in Frostburg, but know that downtown shops may be closed.

Dome car tables are small 🍽️

Be prepared for cozy seating if you book the dome car; consider it part of the charm.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad for its stunning scenic views and the nostalgic experience of riding behind the 1309 steam locomotive. The value for money is often highlighted, with many enjoying the 4+ hour excursion. However, some find the downtown area of Frostburg to be less vibrant than expected, and those in open-air cars should be prepared for soot.

"Actually, I give 4.5 stars. This railroad experience is awesome! Several different train options and experiences. People are friendly and the scenic views are amazing. A few things to know:
-don’t bother going up into Frostburg. Many stores and most restaurants closed. And it’s not much to look at either. Spend your time walking down the trail, reading the coal miners historical walls or the little museum.
-be very careful if you are a party of two and reserve a table that can seat 4. Mostly likely you will be seated with strangers. We just watched a poor couple who sat with people who talked - about themselves- the entire trip up and back. Couldn’t even enjoy the scenery. They just sat there and had to listen
- dome car is very nice. But know the tables are
Small. Felt cramped. Bring your own food and enjoy a nice meal with appetizers provided."

Mary Baptisti

"The train is awesome. The views are stunning. I had a great time. $45 for a 4+ hour event is a great price. The ability to sit in the open air cart was cool too. Cumberland and Frostburg are some of my favorite towns."

Sonny Antonelli

"The Frostburg Flyer was a perfect way to spend a day with family. Fortunately for us, the 1309 Steam Locomotive was up and running (only weekends), and it chugged its way along the tracks for a slow, steady climb up the mountain to Frostburg. With temps in the 70's, we chose to sit in the open air car. The signs are correct, you will get covered in ash and soot, but I think that's all part of the experience. Most of it just brushed off when we stood up, but it was all over everything. If you didn't want this full experience, you can sit in the enclosed cars. The scenery was great, the conductor's narration was informative, and the services at the Frostburg station were plenty. Knowing that the diesel engine would pull us back down to Cumberland on the return trip, we rode in the open air car again, and that was just about perfect. No soot and ash on the return trip. If you're looking for a scenic ride, a family-friendly outing, and to live the steam train life first-hand, the Western MD Scenic Railroad is hard to beat."

Bill Troup

What People Like

Stunning scenic views
Nostalgic steam train ride
Great value for money

What People Dislike

Frostburg downtown quiet
Soot in open-air cars

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The railroad is located in Cumberland, Maryland. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Parking is available near the station. For those coming from further afield, you might consider flying into a regional airport and then renting a car. Check local transit options if available, though they are limited in this area.

Yes, there is typically parking available near the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad station in Cumberland. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially on busy weekends, to secure a good spot.

Public transport options to Cumberland are limited. While there might be bus services, driving is generally the most convenient way to access the area and the railroad.

Most visitors drive to Cumberland. The scenic drive along US-40 Scenic National Road itself is part of the experience, especially in the fall. Consider carpooling if traveling with friends.

Yes, there are several hotels and lodging options in Cumberland, many of which are within a short distance of the train station, making it convenient for overnight stays.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary depending on the class of service and the specific excursion. A 4+ hour event can cost around $45, with different options available. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and package details.

It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for popular dates, themed excursions, or if you have specific seating preferences. This helps ensure you get your desired experience and avoids disappointment.

The railroad offers various seating classes, including enclosed cars for a cleaner ride and open-air cars for a more immersive, albeit potentially sooty, experience. The dome car is also a popular choice for its panoramic views.

Information on discounts, such as for seniors, children, or groups, can usually be found on the railroad's official website. It's worth checking their promotions page before booking.

The typical train ride, such as the Frostburg Flyer, lasts over 4 hours, including the stop in Frostburg. This allows ample time to enjoy the scenery and explore the destination.

🎫 🚂 Onboard Experience

Expect a scenic journey through the mountains with informative narration from the conductor. You'll experience different landscapes and enjoy the unique atmosphere of a heritage railway. The stop in Frostburg offers a chance to stretch your legs.

Yes, if the steam locomotive is in operation, you can expect to get covered in ash and soot in the open-air cars. While it's part of the authentic experience for some, others prefer the enclosed cars for a cleaner ride.

Food and drink service is available, particularly in the dome car, with options like appetizers and meals. Some reviews mention delicious nachos with pulled pork. Bringing your own food is also an option.

Yes, the train ride is generally considered a family-friendly outing. Children often enjoy the novelty of the train, especially the steam locomotive and the open-air cars. The carriage museum is also educational.

The train stops in Frostburg for about an hour and a half. While some visitors find the downtown area has many closed shops, there are services available, and it provides a good opportunity to explore the area briefly.

📸 📸 Photography

The open-air cars offer unobstructed views for photography. The dome car also provides excellent vantage points. Don't forget to capture the steam locomotive itself and the scenic landscapes passing by.

If you plan to ride in the open-air car and are concerned about soot, consider using a protective camera cover or lens hood. Wiping your lens frequently might be necessary.

You can capture panoramic mountain views, forests, valleys, and the historic train itself. The changing scenery provides a dynamic backdrop for your photos.

While the downtown area might be quiet, the train station itself and the surrounding mountain scenery offer photographic potential. The carriage museum might also have interesting subjects.

Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the scenic beauty. Consider the direction of travel and the sun's position when choosing your seat for optimal lighting.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a fantastic family-friendly outing. Kids are often captivated by the sight and sound of the steam locomotive, making the journey an exciting adventure. Opting for the open-air car can add an extra layer of thrill, though be prepared for the soot. The duration of the trip is manageable for most children, and the stop in Frostburg provides a good break. The carriage museum is also a great educational element for younger travelers.

💰 Budget Travelers

For a scenic experience that offers significant value, the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a good choice. At around $45 for a 4+ hour excursion, it provides a substantial amount of entertainment and sightseeing for the price. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can further reduce costs. While there are higher-tier seating options, the standard coach class still offers a great way to enjoy the views without breaking the bank.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This route offers ample opportunities for photographers. The steam locomotive 1309 is a photogenic subject, as are the sweeping mountain vistas. Consider riding in the open-air car for unobstructed shots, but be mindful of protecting your gear from soot. The morning or late afternoon light can create dramatic and beautiful scenes. The carriage museum also presents unique photographic subjects.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Steam Locomotive 1309

The star of many journeys on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is the magnificent 1309 steam locomotive. This restored engine offers a truly authentic and powerful experience, chugging its way up the mountain. Riders often describe the sound and feel of the steam engine as a highlight, bringing a sense of nostalgia and wonder to the trip. It's important to note that the 1309 typically operates only on weekends, so if seeing this iconic engine is a priority, plan your visit accordingly.

While the steam engine provides an unforgettable experience, it also comes with a unique characteristic: soot and ash. Travelers opting for the open-air cars should be prepared for this. It's often described as part of the charm, a tangible connection to the era of steam travel. However, if you prefer a cleaner journey, the enclosed cars offer a comfortable alternative while still providing excellent views. The contrast between the raw power of the steam engine and the serene mountain scenery makes for a memorable adventure.

Navigating the Frostburg Stop

The train makes a significant stop in Frostburg, typically lasting about an hour and a half. This break allows passengers to disembark, stretch their legs, and explore the immediate surroundings. While some visitors have noted that many shops and restaurants in Frostburg's downtown area may be closed, there are still services available, and the stop provides a pleasant interlude in the journey.

For those interested in local history, the carriage museum at the Frostburg station is often highlighted as an educational and worthwhile visit. It offers a glimpse into the region's past and provides a nice resting spot. Some reviewers also mention enjoying food options available at the station, with nachos being a particular favorite. It's a good opportunity to grab a snack or a drink before re-boarding for the return trip to Cumberland.

Scenic Views and Onboard Comfort

The primary draw for many visitors is the stunning scenery along the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad route. As the train ascends the mountain, you'll be treated to panoramic views of valleys, forests, and the picturesque landscapes of Western Maryland. The changing vistas provide a constant visual delight throughout the journey.

When it comes to onboard comfort, the railroad offers different classes of service. The dome car is a popular choice for its expansive windows, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding beauty. However, it's worth noting that the tables in the dome car can be small, leading to a cozy, or for some, a cramped experience. Many travelers recommend bringing your own food and drinks to enjoy in this setting, making the most of the intimate dining experience with a view. The open-air cars, while offering a more immersive experience, come with the aforementioned soot, so choosing the right car for your comfort level is key.

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