Winter on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
There’s something magical about watching snow fall from the window of a moving train.
In Mountain Maryland, winter isn’t something to endure — it’s something to experience. And there may be no better seat in the mountains than aboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.
As the train departs from Cumberland’s historic station and begins its climb through the Appalachian foothills, the world transforms. Frost clings to tree branches. Mountain ridges shimmer under fresh snow. The Potomac River winds quietly below. Inside the railcars, warmth and nostalgia wrap around you like a favorite winter coat.
This is winter in Mountain Maryland — timeless, peaceful, and best enjoyed by rail.
A Front-Row Seat to Winter in the Mountains
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad has long been one of the region’s most iconic experiences, but winter brings a special kind of beauty to the journey.
Snow softens the landscape, turning valleys and forests into a postcard scene. The rhythmic click of the tracks and the gentle sway of the train create a calming escape from everyday noise. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to see the mountains is to slow down and let them unfold outside your window.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a quiet day trip, a winter train ride through Mountain Maryland offers a perspective you simply can’t get from the road.
Why Winter Might Be the Best Time to Ride
While the holidays bring festive magic to the rails, the months that follow offer something equally special — stillness. Fewer crowds. Crisp mountain air. Wide-open views framed in white. Winter allows you to experience the region’s historic rail corridor in its most serene season. The mountains feel grander. The valleys feel quieter. The journey feels personal.
And inside, it’s cozy. Many excursions offer comfortable seating and a chance to relax as you glide past snow-covered ridgelines and riverbanks. It’s an experience that feels both nostalgic and restorative — like stepping back into a simpler time.
Winter Train Excursions Worth Experiencing
One of the things that makes a winter getaway in Mountain Maryland so special is the variety of train excursions you can choose from — each offering a different way to experience the snow-covered mountains and historic rail heritage.
Allegheny Winter Express
The signature winter ride, the Allegheny Winter Express departs from Cumberland and travels up into the snowy Allegheny landscape, offering breathtaking views of frosted ridges and river valleys. Along the way, guests can enjoy a hearty brunch and hot drinks — plus full bar service — all from the cozy comfort of heated railcars. It’s perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to slow down and soak up the season.
Allegheny Mountain Dinner Train
For evenings that feel a little more elegant, climb aboard the Allegheny Mountain Dinner Train, a three-hour experience designed for adults aged 21+. This candlelit journey pairs mountain scenery with a three-course meal prepared fresh onboard and full bar service — a unique date night, special occasion, or simply a memorable way to spend a chilly winter evening in Mountain Maryland.
CES Live Event Excursions
For a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, the CES Live Event Excursions team up with the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad to bring you rail travel paired with performing arts events in nearby Frostburg. Ride through the winter landscape in heritage rail cars with hors d’oeuvres and drinks, then continue on to live music, theatre, and community performances — a beautiful blend of winter scenery and local culture.
Each of these experiences showcases a different side of winter in Mountain Maryland — from hearty, scenic daytime journeys to elegant evenings on the rails, and cultural outings that connect the railroad with the vibrant arts community of the region.
To learn about these excursions and future train events, please visit the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad's website.
Make It a Winter Weekend in Cumberland
The train may be the highlight, but it’s just the beginning of your snowy mountain escape. After your ride, stroll through downtown Cumberland, or downtown Frostburg, where historic architecture, local shops, and inviting cafés create a warm contrast to the winter air. Enjoy a fireside dinner, sip something seasonal, or check into a boutique hotel for a full weekend retreat.
Looking for more outdoor adventure? Pair your rail journey with a peaceful winter walk along the C&O Canal Towpath or bundle up for a drive through Mountain Maryland’s rolling ridges and scenic byways.
Winter here isn’t rushed. It’s savored.
