Logo of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad providing train rides from Cumberland, Maryland utilizing historic steam and diesel locomotives.

Experience The Magic

The Polar Express™ on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers a magical experience that transports families into the heart of a beloved holiday tale. Passengers board beautifully adorned vintage train cars, where the enchanting atmosphere is enhanced by cheerful music and festive decorations. As the train winds through the picturesque landscape of the Allegheny Mountains, children and adults alike are immersed in the spirit of the season. Characters from the story come to life, sharing stories and treats, while the aroma of hot cocoa and cookies fill the air. This delightful journey culminates in a visit from Santa, creating cherished memories that capture the wonder of the holidays.

FEATURED EXCURSIONS

FEATURED EXCURSIONS

  • The Polar Express™ Train Ride

    The Polar Express™ Train Ride

    The Polar Express on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a fun adventure that brings families into the magic of a favorite holiday story. Characters from the story come to life, sharing stories and yummy treats, while the smell of hot cocoa fills the air. The trip ends with a special visit from Santa, making memories that capture the joy of the holidays.

    November 29th - Christmas Eve

  • Western Maryland Scenic Railroad locomotive No. 1309 pulls the signature Frostburg Flyer service between Cumberland and Frostburg, Maryland.

    Frostburg Flyer

    Join us for a scenic ride on the rails! Our signature train ride departs from Cumberland and traverses scenic Mountain Maryland to Frostburg and return, with our steam locomotive or a diesel.

    May - October

  • Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Frostburg Flyer Winter Service traverses the scenic route between Cumberland and Frostburg, Maryland with a full brunch menu and bar.

    Allegheny Mountain Dinner Train

    Enjoy date night out on our award-winning Dinner Train! With fresh prepared food, and full bar service, you will certainly enjoy an elegant night on the rails!

    Saturday Evenings 7:00PM

    April - October

  • A family enjoys ice cream onboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad's summer ice cream trains that are perfect for families and children.

    Murder Mystery Dinner Trains

    Are you ready to solve a mystery? Hop on board our Murder Mystery Dinner Train and solve the mystery while you enjoy drinks and dinner on this entertaining journey.

    Select Saturdays January - October

Check out our full train schedule

The Route

Leaving Cumberland, the route travels west through a breach in the Allegheny Mountains over an iron truss bridge, around World Famous Helmstetter’s Curve, and through the 914-foot Brush Tunnel under Piney Mountain. Climbing grades up to 2.8% on the 16-mile trek, the route follows the former Western Maryland Railroad right-of-way, then joins the old Cumberland & Pennsylvania Railroad.

Locomotive 1309

Constructed in 1949 by the Baldwin Locomotive Works, Chesapeake & Ohio Railway steam locomotive no. 1309 was built to handle the railroad’s heaviest coal trains throughout Kentucky and West Virginia until it was retired in 1956.

64 years later, no. 1309 has completed an overhaul and restoration and is an outstanding tourist attraction operating trains between Cumberland and Frostburg, Maryland. The locomotive is the largest operating steam locomotive of its type in the world.

A Timeless Experience for Everyone