you can take pictures of westbound trains at the railroad crossing

Magnolia Cutoff West Virginia
Travel Guide

you can take a picture of westbound and eastbound trains on the road

Railfan Guide: Magnolia Cutoff – Orleans Crossing Road, West Virginia

📍 Getting There

From Route 9:

Turn right or left onto Detour Road, depending on your direction of travel.
Continue on Detour Road until it intersects with Orleans Road.
Turn right onto Orleans Road.
Follow Orleans Road all the way until you reach the railroad tracks, where you'll see a sign pointing to Orleans Crossing Road – your destination.

🛣️ Road Conditions

Roads are narrow with sharp curves and rolling slopes.
Paved, but no streetlights – caution is strongly advised, especially after sunset.
Cell signal and internet connectivity is unreliable in the area.

📸 What to Expect at Orleans Crossing Road

The surrounding area is a mix of wooded terrain and scattered residential homes.
Roads remain narrow – watch for oncoming vehicles.
No amenities nearby: no gas stations, stores, restaurants, train stations, or hotels.

🚫 Note: Railfans may watch trains along the right of way but observe all posted trespassing signs. Always be respectful of private property and mindful of traffic.

🏙️ Nearest Town

Berkeley Springs, WV – approx. 30 minutes away
- Visit here for fuel, food, lodging, and other essentials.

🎯 Things to Do in the Area

📷 Train Watching – enjoy the view of powerful locomotives traversing the historic Magnolia Cutoff.
🌿 Visit Eidolon Nature Preserve – beautiful trails and scenic overlooks.
🕍 Orleans Crossroads Methodist Episcopal Church – a glimpse into local history and architecture.

🎒 Railfan Packing List

To stay safe and comfortable, make sure to bring:

✅ Scanner (for train chatter)
✅ Food & Water
✅ Toiletry items
✅ Trash bag (Leave No Trace!)
✅ First aid kit
✅ Extra batteries
✅ Mobile charger (for phones and flashlights)
✅ Flashlights
✅ Paper map (GPS may be unreliable)

📢 Pro Tip: Sunrise and sunset hours offer dramatic lighting for photos, and you'll often hear the low rumble of approaching trains echoing through the valley.

Happy railfanning and stay safe!