26028 Almost Heaven, West Virginia
There’s a reason West Virginia inspired the phrase Almost Heaven. This unforgettable fall journey takes you deep into the heart of the Mountain State, where misty peaks, rushing rivers, small-town charm, and historic railroads come together in a spectacular Autumn tapestry.
View Dates & BookOctober 13-20, 2026
There’s a reason West Virginia inspired the phrase Almost Heaven. This unforgettable fall journey takes you deep into the heart of the Mountain State, where misty peaks, rushing rivers, small-town charm, and historic railroads come together in a spectacular Autumn tapestry. From legendary scenic train rides to hidden Cold War history, this thoughtfully paced tour blends natural beauty, Appalachian heritage, and classic railroading at its finest.
Relax, settle in, and let Windstar Travel take you on a journey where every curve of track reveals another breathtaking view.
Tour Includes:
• Deluxe Roundtrip Motorcoach Transportation
• On-Board Friendly Host
• 7 Nights Hotel Accomodations
• 13 Meals
• Downtown Charleston - Historic District
• Beckley Coal Mine Tour
• Cass Scenic Railroad Bald Knob Excursion
• Cass Historical Museum & Showcase
• Greenbrier Resort - Bunker Tour
• Green Bank Radio Astronomy Observatory Tour
• New Tygart Flyer
• Gandy Dancer Dinner & Show
• Western Maryland Railroad
Click HERE For a Tour Brochure
Tour Pricing:
$2800 Per Person Double
$3300 Single
Non-Members Please Add $30
Day 1
ALL ABOARD!
Your West Virginia adventure begins as we travel east through the Midwest, enjoying comfortable motorcoach travel with planned rest and refresh stops along the way. This evening, we arrive in Richmond, Indiana, where we check in and enjoy a relaxed welcome dinner at Cracker Barrel, a perfect opportunity to meet fellow travelers and start sharing stories before the adventure truly begins.
Day 2
COAL COUNTRY
& APPALACHIAN HERITAGE
After breakfast, we make our way into West Virginia, arriving in Charleston’s historic downtown district. Here, you’ll have time to explore local shops, stretch your legs, and enjoy lunch on your own while soaking in the charm of the state capital.
This afternoon brings a powerful step back in time at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. Travel 1,500 feet underground aboard “man trip” rail cars as a veteran coal miner shares firsthand stories of the men and women who built West Virginia’s coal legacy. It’s an immersive and moving experience that brings Appalachian history vividly to life.
We continue on to Lewisburg, consistently ranked among America’s most charming small towns, where we enjoy a group dinner and settle in for the night.
Day 3
CASS SCENIC RAILROAD & HIGH-MOUNTAIN VISTAS
Today is a signature experience of our West Virginia adventure as we step back into the golden age of railroading aboard the legendary Cass Scenic Railroad. Powered by historic geared Shay locomotives, this unforgettable excursion climbs deep into the high mountains of the Allegheny Highlands.
The Bald Knob Excursion carries us 11 miles uphill to West Virginia’s second-highest point, gaining nearly 2,400 feet in elevation. As the train steadily climbs, the landscape transforms dramatically. Hardwood forests give way to red spruce, wildflowers change with altitude, and the air grows cooler and crisper. At the summit of Bald Knob, sweeping panoramic views stretch across mountain ridges as far as the eye can see. On clear days, you’ll feel as though you’re standing on the roof of the Mountain State.
A nostalgic hobo-style boxed lunch is included to enjoy during the journey, adding to the authentic rail experience. This ride is widely regarded as one of the most scenic train excursions east of the Mississippi and is a favorite even among seasoned rail travelers.
Following our ride, we visit the Cass Historical Museum, housed in the original company store. Here, the story of Cass comes alive through artifacts, photographs, and railroad memorabilia. Learn about the logging boom that built this remote town and discover why Cass is home to the world’s largest operating fleet of geared Shay locomotives. One of these engines has been working these same rails for over a century.
We return to our hotel this evening with memories of mountain vistas, historic rails, and the unmistakable feeling of having experienced something truly special.
Day 4
COLD WAR SECRETS & LISTENING TO THE UNIVERSE
This morning, we uncover one of America’s most fascinating secrets at The Greenbrier Bunker. Hidden beneath the elegant Greenbrier Resort for over 30 years, this massive Cold War fallout shelter was built to house the U.S. Congress in the event of nuclear attack. Its story of secrecy, preparedness, and preservation is nothing short of astonishing.
Afterward, we journey to the Green Bank Observatory, located within the National Radio Quiet Zone. Here, giant radio telescopes listen to whispers from deep space in one of the quietest places in America. Lunch is included as we learn how scientists explore the universe without interference from modern technology.
This evening, we arrive at our hotel, surrounded by mountain beauty and rich railroad history.
Day 5
NEW TYGART FLYER &
MOUNTAIN MUSIC MEMORIES
This morning we board another unforgettable rail adventure: the New Tygart Flyer of the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad. It’s no accident West Virginia is called the Mountain State, and today’s journey shows exactly why.
This four-hour, 46-mile round-trip excursion follows the Shavers Fork of the Cheat River through pristine mountain wilderness. The train winds along cascading rivers, across bridges, through tunnels, and into remote areas accessible only by rail. Along the way, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of rugged mountain terrain, colorful fall foliage, and historic railroad landmarks.
The highlight of the journey is the stop at High Falls of Cheat, an 18-foot-high waterfall tucked deep within the forest. The peaceful sound of rushing water and the untouched beauty of the surroundings make this a moment you’ll never forget. A lunch is included onboard as you relax in comfortable, climate-controlled coaches.
This evening, we trade railroads for rhythm at the Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre. After a delicious plated dinner, sit back and enjoy a lively two-hour show featuring the Mountain Memories Show Band. With music spanning the 1950s to today, along with gospel, patriotic favorites, and family-friendly comedy, this Branson-style performance is filled with heart, humor, and toe-tapping fun.
We return to our hotel with full hearts, happy memories, and perhaps a tune or two stuck in our heads.
Day 6
WESTERN MARYLAND SCENIC RAILROAD
After breakfast, we continue our rail-themed journey with a change of scenery as we travel to Maryland to experience the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.
Before boarding, watch as the locomotive performs a fascinating maneuver on a working turntable, a rare sight that delights railfans and first-timers alike. Once onboard, we begin our descent from Frostburg to Cumberland, dropping more than 1,400 feet in elevation through the Allegheny Mountains.
The train follows the historic rail corridor alongside the Great Allegheny Passage, winding through dense forests, mountain cuts, and the famous Brush Tunnel, where darkness suddenly opens to breathtaking mountain views. A lunch is included onboard, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery without missing a moment.
This journey offers a wonderful contrast to West Virginia’s high mountain climbs, showcasing the broader Appalachian region and its historic transportation routes.
We arrive in Winchester, Virginia late afternoon, check in to our hotel, and enjoy a relaxed group dinner as we reflect on another incredible day of rail adventures.
Day 7
A LEISURELY JOURNEY WEST
This morning we begin our return journey home. After breakfast and hotel checkout, settle in for a comfortable travel day with frequent rest and refresh stops along the way.
Today is a chance to relax, share photos, and relive favorite moments from the week. From soaring mountain peaks and hidden Cold War history to unforgettable train rides and warm Appalachian hospitality, this journey has been filled with stories worth retelling.
We overnight once again in Richmond, Indiana, where dinner is on your own using provided gift cards.
Day 8
HOMEWARD BOUND WITH MEMORIES TO LAST
After breakfast, we continue our final leg home, traveling comfortably with planned stops for lunch and rest along the way. As familiar landmarks come back into view, we arrive home with new friendships, unforgettable experiences, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and history of Appalachia.
This remarkable journey through Almost Heaven, West Virginia concludes, but the memories will linger long after the leaves have fallen.
Activity Level 2: RELAXED
Expectations: This tour requires light physical activity combined with shorter travel days. Tour members should expect intermittent walking, with occasional slight inclines and stair climbs, including boarding the motorcoach. Activities may include an occasional city or nature walking tour, stopping along the way. Guests should be able to climb a set of stairs, walk up or down slight slopes and navigate some uneven terrain or cobblestone. Please be aware that on tours with flights and cruises you will be required to handle your own luggage and walk longer distances in airports and cruise terminals. In addition, you may need to handle your own luggage at hotels where luggage handling is not available.
Appropriate for: Travelers who are somewhat physically fit and comfortable with longer days of touring (both walking tours and coach time).
Deposit & Final Payment: A $300 deposit per person is required within one week of reservation. Must be paid in full by August 21, 2026.
No refunds will be issued after 5:00pm on August 21, 2026.
Payment Methods:
Cash, checks, credit/debit cards and money orders are accepted. Make checks payable to Windstar and mail to 3211 Division Street, Burlington, IA 52601. There is a $30 fee for insufficient funds or returned checks. Credit/debit card payments (Visa, Mastercard and Discover) are subject to a 3% processing fee.
Travel Protection:
We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Please call to inquire about travel protection options.
A final departure letter packet will be sent approximately 10 to 14 days prior to the departure date. This will contain the scheduled departure times and locations, as well as other important information in regards to your upcoming tour. If the tour involves overnight accommodations, luggage tags will be provided as well.
Windstar Travel, parking lot owners and shopping center management assume and accept no responsibility for the safety of your vehicle or its contents at the place of departure. If you choose to park and leave your vehicle there, you do so willingly and at your own risk. If you choose to leave your vehicle, please park only in the areas designated in your final tour information packet. Vehicles not parked in the indicated areas may be subject to towing and all expenses incurred are the responsibility of the owner.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Davenport, IA | 8735 Northwest Blvd. | BTW Building 1st Right past Blain's Farm & Fleet; on the left |
| Ft. Madison, IA | Lee County Historical Society 814 10th St. |
| Mediapolis, IA | Mepo Foods 111 N. Wapello Rd. |
| Muscatine, IA | Wal-Mart 3003 US-61 |
| Wapello, IA | Family Dollar | Dollar Tree 503 US 61 |
| West Burlington, IA | BTW Depot 906 Broadway |
| From Price | Book Now | Call Back | Telephone | Favorites | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 13 2026 | $2,800.00 | | | |  |
| Show/Hide Pricing | |||||
