The Shadow
WEST VIRGINIA (VR) – When planning a trip, one of the most important aspects is the travel method. From road trips to international flights, there are plenty of options available; however, there is one often overlooked choice: trains. In southern West Virginia, Amtrak runs the Cardinal line for all of your travel needs.
Every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, this line runs between Chicago and New York City with stops in multiple West Virginia and Virginia cities making it an excellent option for day trips. Travellers can easily go from Hinton to White Sulphur Springs or Charleston to Clifton Forge and back again.
Not only is train travel a convenient way to take a trip, but it is also generally cheaper than flying. Other benefits include plenty of leg room and reclining seats that do not impede the passenger behind you in coach, generous free luggage options, several food and drink options to suit varying tastes and general ease.
While the convenience and cost are major draws, the true selling point of the Cardinal is the unparalleled scenery. As the train winds through the heart of southern West Virginia, it traverses the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Passengers are treated to views of the rugged canyon walls and the rushing New River—vistas that are completely inaccessible by car. During the autumn months, this route becomes a moving gallery of vibrant oranges and reds, offering a perspective on the Appalachian wilderness that you simply cannot get from an interstate.
Choosing the train isn’t just about the destination; it’s about embracing a slower, more intentional pace of life. Many of the stops along the West Virginia route, such as Hinton and Alderson, feature historic depots that harken back to the golden age of rail travel. These stations often sit in the heart of small, walkable towns, allowing travelers to step off the platform and immediately immerse themselves in local culture, boutique shopping, and historic architecture without the need for a rental car.
For those who struggle with the cramped confines of modern air travel, the Cardinal is a breath of fresh air. Beyond the generous legroom, the train offers free Wi-Fi and individual power outlets at every seat, making it an ideal environment for those who want to get some work done or stream a movie while the landscape rolls by. If you’re looking for a more social experience, the Lounge Car provides a space to stretch your legs, strike up a conversation with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy a coffee while staring out of the oversized observation windows.
Pro Tip: Because the Cardinal only runs three times a week, it is wise to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak leaf-peeping season in October when the route is in high demand.
As someone who recently discovered the ease of rail travel, I encourage travellers to try it out and see where the rails will take you next! Whether you are going on a day trip to The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs or a weekend getaway to the Big Apple, adventures await!
