Kentucky is a state of immense beauty; it’s a place that inspires and invites exploration and wanderlust. While we’re all for getting out and enjoying a hike in the Kentucky wilds, there’s nothing better than sitting back and soaking up the beauty of the Bluegrass State aboard an old-fashioned train. And the Big South Fork Scenic Railway might just be the most charming train in the state! All year long, this railroad offers excursions that let folks experience each season’s splendor, and we guarantee that a scenic train ride aboard Big South Fork will have you falling head-over-heels in love with Kentucky!
The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a Bluegrass treasure, enchanting riders since 1907. It’s a fun, family-friendly, and historic attraction that often slips under the radar.
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
History buffs adore this railway, which takes a 14-mile trip down to Blue Heron, the largest interpretive collection of historic coal mining in America… and Kentucky’s very own ghost town!
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This area is overflowing with history, in fact. Coal was discovered in the region early on, and Stearns was established to serve as the hub for the area’s mining industry. The Kentucky & Tennessee Railway stretched through the area, and it continued to utilize steam locomotives even after diesel eclipsed it in popularity.
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But Big South Fork Scenic Railway is so much more than an attraction with unique historical significance. Located in magnificent McCreary County, the train offers excursions all year round, allowing folks to take in the unique splendor of the state in each season.
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During the spring, Big South Fork has a round-trip adventure on the historic Kentucky & Tennessee Railway line that winds through the blooming forests and fields of the region.
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
The landscape is equally stunning in the summer, with the big Kentucky skies and rolling blue hills simply perfect.
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
And in the autumn months, with fall foliage at its peak, this part of the Bluegrass will totally sweep you off your feet!
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
In addition to its regular excursions, Big South Fork Scenic Railway also offers special seasonal events, such as the Polar Express ride during Christmastime. There’s something so wholly enchanting about an old-fashioned train depot decked out in twinkly lights and falling snow, don’t you think?
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
No matter the season, these excursions offer stunning views of the landscape as it changes from season to season. Start planning your visit now, and look forward to a scenic train ride through this naturally wondrous area of Kentucky!
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
When was the last time you took in the beauty of the Bluegrass aboard a train?
Big South Fork Scenic Railway/Facebook
Nikki Sirback/Google Local
Heather Dugger/Google Local
Mark Brown/Google Local
Information on the upcoming 2022 excursions is still TBA, so we recommend checking back on the website regularly to stay up to date on the latest information! Visit the Big South Fork Scenic Railway website to learn more and book your trip.
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Address: Big South Fork Scenic Railway, 66 Henderson St, Stearns, KY 42647, USA
