A legendary symbol of America’s golden age of rail travel is returning to the tracks this fall. The Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 steam locomotive—hailed as the most powerful and elegant passenger steam engine of its time—will once again grace Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard the Shenandoah Valley Limited, a special series of steam rail excursions announced by the Virginia Scenic Railway on July 9, 2025.
This exciting return is the result of a partnership between the Virginia Scenic Railway, the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Steam Railroading Institute, and the Virginia Mechanical Preservation Society. Together, these organizations have made it possible to restore and operate this National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, which is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Excursion Details: Travel Back in Time Through the Scenic Shenandoah
Beginning September 26, the Shenandoah Valley Limited will operate for five consecutive weekends, with departures from Victoria Station in Goshen, Virginia. Passengers will be transported back to a bygone era as they travel round-trip through the rolling hills, woodlands, and picturesque farmland of the Shenandoah Valley, an area rich with history and natural beauty.
The No. 611, built in Roanoke in 1950 by the Norfolk & Western Railway, served for nearly a decade in high-speed passenger service before its retirement in 1959. It has since become a revered icon among train enthusiasts, praised for its engineering excellence, streamlined design, and enduring legacy.
Aboard the Shenandoah Valley Limited: Seating Options
The Shenandoah Valley Limited offers a range of ticket options to accommodate every kind of traveler:
- Coach Class: Comfortable and affordable seating with large windows.
- Premium Coach: Extra legroom and upgraded amenities.
- Table Class: Shared tables for families and groups to enjoy a more communal experience.
- Dome Class: Elevated viewing experience through panoramic glass ceilings for the most immersive journey.
All ticketing details—including pricing and booking availability—will be released later this summer via the official Virginia Scenic Railway website. Advance booking is strongly recommended, as this limited-time event is expected to sell out quickly.
Preserving History on the Rails
Steve Powell, president of the Buckingham Branch Railroad, which operates the Virginia Scenic Railway, emphasized the importance of this collaboration:
“It’s great to work with old friends and new partners to bring the excitement of mainline steam railroading back to the Shenandoah Valley. No. 611 isn’t just a locomotive—it’s a living piece of American heritage.”
The Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 is the last surviving 4-8-4 locomotive of its class. Its restoration and continued operation have become a symbol of the national effort to preserve and celebrate American railroading history.
The Virginia Museum of Transportation, based in Roanoke, has played a key role in maintaining and showcasing the 611. The locomotive has toured the U.S. in the past, but this year’s excursions provide a rare opportunity to experience it in motion within its home state.
How to Book Your Seat on the No. 611
To ride aboard this legendary locomotive, follow these steps:
- Visit the Virginia Scenic Railway website for schedules, ticket prices, and booking updates.
- Choose your preferred weekend date and seating class based on your budget and experience preferences.
- Look for special offers, such as early-bird pricing or group discounts.
- Book online when tickets become available later this summer.
- Prepare for your journey by arriving early at Victoria Station in Goshen and considering overnight stays in nearby towns like Staunton or Lexington, VA.
A Perfect Fall Travel Experience
The return of the Shenandoah Valley Limited with the No. 611 at its helm offers more than just a train ride—it provides a moving tribute to American innovation, craftsmanship, and the power of storytelling through travel.
Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast, a family seeking a unique weekend outing, or a tourist discovering Virginia’s charms, this fall journey promises to be unforgettable.
With peak autumn foliage anticipated across the Blue Ridge Mountains during the excursion dates, guests will enjoy one of the most scenic landscapes on the East Coast—through the rhythmic pulse of steam and steel.
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