Big South Fork Scenic Railway

Big South Fork Scenic Railway Welcome to the official page of Big South Fork Scenic Railway!
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Explore one of the last and best-preserved "company" towns in Kentucky's coalfields, and ride our train to the historic Mine 18 in Blue Heron, KY.

School's out, summer is here, and it's a great time to make memories together!Whether you're introducing your kids to th...
06/11/2026

School's out, summer is here, and it's a great time to make memories together!

Whether you're introducing your kids to their first train ride or continuing a family tradition, Big South Fork Scenic Railway offers a chance to spend time together while taking in the sights and history of the gorge.

What was your first train ride like?

If you've wanted to see the heart of Appalachia in the summer, there's no better way than from the rails!🚂☀️As the train...
06/08/2026

If you've wanted to see the heart of Appalachia in the summer, there's no better way than from the rails!🚂☀️

As the train winds through the Big South Fork gorge, you'll take in river views, tunnels, and miles of forest at the height of the season. Along the way, you'll also have the opportunity to explore Blue Heron, a historic mining community that tells the story of the people who once called this place home.

Whether it's your first ride or a tradition you've enjoyed for years, summer is a beautiful time to experience Big South Fork Scenic Railway!

You asked, we answered — tickets for The Polar Express™ Train Ride are now available! 🎄🚂Families from all over make this...
06/05/2026

You asked, we answered — tickets for The Polar Express™ Train Ride are now available! 🎄🚂

Families from all over make this holiday tradition part of their Christmas season each year, and we’re excited to welcome guests back aboard for another magical ride through Big South Fork.

If you’re planning to ride this year, we recommend getting tickets early. Popular dates tend to fill quickly!

Blue Heron is a great place to step off the train and take a little time to explore!Many riders like to bring a picnic a...
06/01/2026

Blue Heron is a great place to step off the train and take a little time to explore!

Many riders like to bring a picnic along and enjoy lunch near the river after arriving at this historic coal camp. With open space, picnic tables, and the Big South Fork River nearby, it’s an easy place to slow down for a bit before the return trip.

It’s a simple way to turn your train ride into a full day in the gorge!

There’s a good chance someone in your family has ridden these rails before🚂For generations, folks have made memories abo...
05/29/2026

There’s a good chance someone in your family has ridden these rails before🚂

For generations, folks have made memories aboard the Big South Fork Scenic Railway — from family trips and summer afternoons to first train rides through the gorge.

We’d love to hear your story. Share a favorite memory or photo from your time on the train in the comments below📸

And if it’s been a while since your last ride, we’d be glad to welcome you back this season!

Happy Memorial Day from Big South Fork Scenic Railway 🇺🇸Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made th...
05/25/2026

Happy Memorial Day from Big South Fork Scenic Railway 🇺🇸

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day spent with family, friends, and moments worth remembering.

Looking for a fun way to spend the holiday? Hop aboard our Memorial Day Train Ride departing at 11 AM and enjoy the beauty of the Big South Fork with the people you love🚂

We look forward to celebrating the day with you!

05/21/2026

Looking through the Valve Cages of the Big South Fork Scenic Railway 2425. How much over original size do you think they can be re-bored?

Check it out!

Like, follow, share!

And as always... ask questions!

Have ideas for a video? Let us know!

All aboard for a special Memorial Day ride at the Big South Fork Scenic Railway!🇺🇸Join us at 11:00 AM as we take a sceni...
05/19/2026

All aboard for a special Memorial Day ride at the Big South Fork Scenic Railway!🇺🇸

Join us at 11:00 AM as we take a scenic journey through the beauty and history of McCreary County aboard the historic rails of the Big South Fork Scenic Railway. This Memorial Day ride is a meaningful way to slow down, reflect, and enjoy time with family and friends while traveling through the stunning landscapes of the Big South Fork region.

Departing from the Stearns depot, the train winds through the hills and valleys tied to the area’s rich railroad and coal mining history, offering a memorable experience for all ages.

Make plans to arrive early, grab your seats, and enjoy a unique holiday tradition on the rails.

📍 Big South Fork Scenic Railway
Stearns, Kentucky

We’ll see you at the station at 11 AM for departure.

A celebration 250 years in the making is coming to downtown Stearns this July 4th! 🇺🇸“250 Years – Voices of McCreary Pas...
05/17/2026

A celebration 250 years in the making is coming to downtown Stearns this July 4th! 🇺🇸

“250 Years – Voices of McCreary Past and Present” will bring the community together for a day filled with history, creativity, music, food, local vendors, artisan demonstrations, and family-friendly fun as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary and the stories that make McCreary County unique.

From honoring the past to celebrating the present, this event is all about community, heritage, and hometown pride.

Interested in becoming a vendor or submitting artwork or essays? Check the link in the comments for full details and participation information.

Yes, your furry friends are welcome aboard for regular train trips!🐾Pets are allowed on the train as long as they are on...
05/15/2026

Yes, your furry friends are welcome aboard for regular train trips!🐾

Pets are allowed on the train as long as they are on a leash and remain under control at all times. Please note that pets are only permitted on standard excursions and are not allowed on special themed rides or events.

We’re excited to have you and your four-legged travel companions join us for the journey—just make sure they’re ready for a safe and enjoyable ride too!

Address

66 Henderson Street
Stearns, KY
42647

Telephone

+16063765330

Website

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