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Afton Today
By the People, for the People
Virginia Scenic Railway Brings Back Steam Train Excursions
Iconic N&W Class J 611 locomotive to power summer trips through Blue Ridge Mountains
Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:10pm
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The return of the iconic N&W Class J 611 steam locomotive to Virginia's rails evokes the romance and grandeur of classic railroading.Afton TodayThe Virginia Scenic Railway is reviving the glory days of steam railroading this summer, offering excursions powered by the historic N&W Class J 611 locomotive. The 611, designated a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, will transport passengers on 1.5-hour journeys through Virginia's stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, with a special extended trip over Afton Mountain and through the Blue Ridge Tunnel.
Why it matters
The return of the 611 steam locomotive to Virginia's rails is a significant event, allowing a new generation to experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of classic steam railroading. As a designated state steam locomotive and historic landmark, the 611's appearances draw rail enthusiasts from across the region and highlight Virginia's rich transportation heritage.
The details
The Virginia Scenic Railway's 2026 Summer of Steam kicks off in June with a two-week residency in Staunton, followed by a final two-week run from Louisa. Excursions will begin in Staunton on June 12 and conclude in Louisa on July 5, each lasting approximately 1.5 hours. There will also be a longer, one-time excursion on June 22 that will depart Staunton, travel over Afton Mountain and through the Blue Ridge Tunnel, make stops in Crozet, Ivy, and Downtown Charlottesville, and end in Gordonsville, where passengers can watch the 611 maneuver on the wye before returning to Staunton.
- The Virginia Scenic Railway's 2026 Summer of Steam kicks off in June with a two-week residency in Staunton.
- Excursions will begin in Staunton on June 12 and conclude in Louisa on July 5.
- A special one-time excursion will depart Staunton on June 22, traveling over Afton Mountain and through the Blue Ridge Tunnel.
The players
Virginia Scenic Railway
A heritage railroad operation that is bringing back the glory days of steam railroading with excursions powered by the historic N&W Class J 611 locomotive.
Steve Powell
President of the Buckingham Branch Railroad, which operates the Virginia Scenic Railway.
N&W Class J 611
A 1950-built steam locomotive that is the sole survivor of the J-Class fleet and is widely considered the pinnacle of steam technology. It is the official Steam Locomotive for the State of Virginia, designated a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Mendy Flynn
Executive director of the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
What they’re saying
“We're beyond thrilled to bring history back to life this summer, especially in new locations and with different thrills and highlights. This will be a special treat for every rail lover who has dreamed of experiencing the power and elegance of the steam era firsthand.”
— Steve Powell, President, Buckingham Branch Railroad
“This is a milestone moment not just for Norfolk & Western 611, but for this entire region. For the first time in a number of years, we're bringing mainline steam into a new part of Virginia, giving a whole new generation the chance to see, hear, and feel this living piece of history come to life.”
— Mendy Flynn, Executive Director, Virginia Museum of Transportation
What’s next
The 611 steam locomotive will continue its Louisa-based excursions after the initial Staunton residency, with the final run scheduled for July 5.
The takeaway
The return of the iconic N&W Class J 611 steam locomotive to Virginia's rails is a significant event that will allow a new generation to experience the sights, sounds, and sensations of classic steam railroading, highlighting the state's rich transportation heritage.
