Ride in the Cab of Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611 – Charity Auction
All proceeds benefit the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
This auction is hosted by our friends at Rail and Road Auctions When you click the Bid Online Now button you will be taken to their website.
The Virginia Museum of Transportation is proud to present rail fans with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: a ride in the cab of the legendary Norfolk & Western Class J No. 611.
As part of the Shenandoah Valley Limited on the Virginia Scenic Railway, four unforgettable cab ride experiences will be auctioned:
October 11, 2025 – One rider
October 18, 2025 – One rider
October 25, 2025 – One rider
October 26, 2025 – One rider
Each cab ride experience will last approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. 611 will lead the train under steam for about 25 miles outbound, then be towed in reverse on the return journey to Goshen. Riders will use the jump seat to sit during the experience; for safety reasons, standing behind the engineer or fireman while the locomotive is in motion is not permitted.
The auction will run for 10 days, starting September 19 at 10:00 a.m. ET and ending Monday, September 29 during a live auction closing beginning at 7:00 p.m. ET. Each spot will be auctioned separately.
The successful bidders will be provided detailed itineraries by the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
Rider Requirements
All auction winners/riders must:
Be at least 18 years of age at the time of the ride and show proof of age.
Arrange for their own travel and lodging into and out of the departure city.
Arrive 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time to be given a safety briefing prior to boarding at the designated location.
Board the steam engine without assistance via a vertical ladder on the side of the engine from tracks – not a platform.
Remain seated in the jump seat during the trip; standing behind crew while the locomotive is in motion is not permitted.
Withstand the high temperature inside the steam engine cab (temperature can reach 140 degrees or higher).
Dress in appropriate, comfortable clothing for the ride in the cab. Long sleeves, long pants, and non-skid, closed-toe shoes are required. (Safety glasses and hearing protection will be provided by the Virginia Museum of Transportation; vests are not required).
Understand that only winning bidders will be contacted with details of the trip, including where they will board and depart.
Sign a waiver of liability from the Virginia Museum of Transportation and Virginia Scenic Railway as well as a photo and video release.
No photos or videos are permitted while the locomotive is in motion, due to insurance and liability requirements.
Must comply with all Museum and Virginia Scenic Railway staff directions. Failure to comply will result in being removed from the property with no refund.
Understand that the Virginia Museum of Transportation and Virginia Scenic Railway reserve the right to alter, modify, cancel or reschedule this opportunity.
Important Notes
This opportunity is provided at the railroad’s sole discretion. While every effort will be made to adhere to the planned itinerary, circumstances beyond the railroad’s control may necessitate changes to ensure the safety and satisfaction of all participants as well as the operation of the railroad.
If the opportunity is canceled, your winning bid amount will be refunded, less any expenses incurred, if any, by Rail & Road Auctions and the Virginia Museum of Transportation.
