Published: April 26, 2008 06:45 pm         

Cass Railroad, Cathedral Park ushering in spring

Get on board for Whistles, Wings and Wildflowers Weekend, May 30 to June 1

The thrill of a train ride, the trill of bird calls and the tranquil beauty of spring flowers are all packed into the Whistles, Wings and Wildflowers Weekend at Cass Railroad State Park in Pocahontas County Friday through Sunday, May 30 — June 1.

Birders and botanical enthusiasts can choose from among several expert-led hikes throughout the weekend. Participants also can soak up the area’s history with guided tours and museum displays.

“This event provides a rare opportunity to view the mourning warbler, which is predominately a northern species,’’ said Andy Bennett, assistant superintendent for Cass Scenic Railroad State Park.

“Our trip to the old town of Spruce has the highest concentration of morning warblers in the state.’’

The train excursion will allow participants to see both Spruce Knob and Bald Knob mountains. “With an elevation of 4,842 feet, Bald Knob provides a spectacular view,’’ said Bennett.

“The Bald Knob area has a climate similar to Canada and is abundant in plants typical to the Canadian wilderness.’’ At that altitude, weather is cooler and wetter than at lower elevations. Hikers should bring layers of warm clothing, rain gear and sturdy walking shoes, preferably waterproof.

Friday

• Events get under way at 4:15 p.m. with the Cass Showcase, a scale diorama of Cass and sawmill as it was during the mid 1930s. The show includes a video projected above the diorama and an interactive history session.

• A guided wildflower walk starts at 6 p.m. Participants meet at the Greenbrier River Trail parking area.

• At 7:30 p.m., attendees gather at the Cass Showcase for an orientation meeting. The agenda includes tour leader introductions, tour descriptions and nature presentations.

Saturday

• Early birders can join the 6 a.m. motorcar for a session of bird watching on the mountaintop. Participants will meet up with the train later at Spruce. Evening birders can gather at 6 p.m. on the steps of the Company Store for a town birding walk.

• At 7 a.m., the Whistles and Wildflower Special train pulls out of the station to deliver participants to the start of their various nature hike locations.

• Other activity options include a visit to the Railroad and Logging History Museum adjacent to the Showcase building, a guided exploration of the locomotive shops with the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park interpretive staff, and a tour of the town of Cass.

Sunday

• The Whistles, Wings and Wildflowers Weekend closes with an early morning birding jaunt, followed by a wildflower walk, on the Greenbrier River Trail.

For more information or to make reservations, contact Cass Scenic Railroad State Park at (304) 456-4300 or 1-(800) CALL WVA, or visit online www.cassrailroad.com.