This 3-Hour Train Ride Is The Most Relaxing Way To Enjoy Kentucky Scenery
By Andrea Limke|Updated on July 17, 2023(Originally published July 15, 2023)
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
There’s never a bad time to make plans to get out and experience the wondrous beauty of Kentucky, and there are many ways to do this. One of the best is a ride on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, which is located in the small town of Stearns. The three-hour trip on the Kentucky & Tennessee Railway line is the ultimate experience and the most relaxing way to enjoy a scenic train ride in Kentucky. If you’ve been searching for “train rides near me” in Kentucky, it’s safe to say you can stop looking. Prepare for splendor on this magical Stearns, KY train:
Big South Fork Kentucky is a favorite Bluegrass State destination, located in stunning McCreary County.
Beginning in the 1830s, railroads became an important piece of Kentucky's development. They connected some of the state's most developed towns, and some railroads stretched into Ohio.
The railway offers a few different rides throughout the year, and they all belong on your bucket list.
Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a true treat throughout the year, and it has been enchanting riders since 1907. In the spring, the landscape absolutely comes to life. Summer brings a shimmering emerald covering to the earth, and fall allows the landscape to erupt in hues of gold and red.
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If you've never visited the Big South Fork Scenic Area, you're in for a beautiful surprise. This region of Kentucky is unrivaled in its natural beauty, and there are many ways to experience it.
Train rides are absolutely enchanting, and they offer a unique way to connect with the early industrialization of our nation. Special rides like the Fall Color Run will leave you in awe, whether you're a young child or simply a child at heart.
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If you'd like to see it all from the comfort of a nostalgic train car, a ride with Big South Fork Scenic Railway is the perfect option. There’s no better time to start planning your adventure.
This area is overflowing with history. Coal was discovered in the region early on, and Stearns was established to serve as the heart of the area's mining industry. The Kentucky & Tennessee Railway stretched through the area, and it continued to utilize steam locomotives even after diesel became the preferred "mainstream" fuel.
The ride is a three-hour-long round-trip experience aboard one of the railway's exciting locomotives. The relaxing ride takes you through diverse landscapes and plenty of photo-worthy scenery.
Riders of all ages will find themselves enchanted by the beauty of The Mountain State. Take in the majesty of the Daniel Boone National Forest, and marvel at the splendor of scenic overlooks and vistas. Plan ahead, as you can purchase snacks or a Coal Miner’s Lunch on the ride.
The train will descend 600 feet into the gorge, chugging past mountain streams, lush vegetation, and scenic views. This is the only mountain train in Kentucky that provides this type of scenery.
Prepare to take a few pictures, because you'll want to brag about the scenery you see. Truly, this level of majesty is almost unbelievable.
At the halfway (or 30-minute) point, you'll make a stop at the historic Barthell Coal Camp. This former coal mine is fascinating and offers even more views of the surrounding natural features.
Mine tour tickets are sold separately from train tickets, and pre-purchasing is recommended because spots fill up quickly. You can expect to spend two hours exploring the camp (during tour season, which is April 1 through October 30) before making the 30-minute return trip. Outside of that timeframe, the train just descends into the gorge and back.
You'll then make the trip back to the station and back through the rugged land of the Big South Fork area. When planning a visit, be sure to visit the McCreary County website to plan even more adventures.
This area is full of surprises. If you're an adventurous spirit, you'll surely feel right at home.
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No matter the season, this train ride offers stunning views of the landscape as it changes from season to season. Start planning your visit and look forward to this scenic train ride that takes you through a naturally wondrous area of Kentucky.
The Big South Fork Kentucky takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in The Bluegrass State, and this three-hour excursion is a relaxing way to enjoy a nice day in our state. Have you hopped aboard this 14-mile Stearns, KY train? What did you think? Share your experience with us in the comments!
You’ll find the railway at 100 Henderson St., Stearns, KY 42647. For more information on the train schedule, ticket prices, and the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, visit its website. And if you need a place to stay in McCreary County, Vrbo has lots of great options.
McCreary County is just about two hours away from Shelby County, which is where you’ll find world-famous Kentucky Derby horses. Get up close and personal with them in this video by us at OnlyInYourState:
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