MOUNT PERRY GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Discover the Legacy: A One-Hour Journey Through Ohio’s Coal-Mining Past
A one-hour scenic train in Mount Perry led by historian Dave Adair that traces the stories of the Little Cities of Black Diamonds and includes a keepsake 'diamond in the rough.'
Discover the Legacy: A One-Hour Journey Through Ohio’s Coal-Mining Past.
Adventure brief
Discover the Legacy: A One-Hour Journey Through Ohio’s Coal-Mining Past
Climb aboard a vintage carriage in Mount Perry and let the rhythm of rail carry you into Ohio’s coal-mining past. On this one-hour guided trip, historian Dave Adair pieces together the gritty lives and local lore of the Little Cities of Black Diamonds while passengers take in the region’s mining landscape and receive a small keepsake—an authentic 'diamond in the rough.' The short outing is presented as a relaxed, family-friendly experience that runs rain or shine.
Situated in Zanesville, Ohio, the Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad offers a compelling journey into the state's coal mining past. This one-hour train ride, guided by historian Dave Adair, takes visitors on an immersive trip through the Little Cities of Black Diamonds region, a once-thriving coal mining hub. As the vintage locomotive chugs along, travelers are transported back in time, hearing engaging stories about local miners and the rugged life they led. What makes this experience stand out is its combination of historic preservation and storytelling, set against the backdrop of Ohio's rolling hills and scenic landscapes. The train features restored vintage coaches, adding authentic charm, and the narration reveals hidden details about the area's rich industrial history that many visitors overlook. Rain or shine, the tour proceeds, making it a reliable outing year-round. Perfect for history buffs, families, and train enthusiasts alike, this ride offers a rare glimpse into Ohio's industrial heritage, complemented by the peaceful beauty of rural scenery. Along the route, you'll see remnants of old mining infrastructure, giving context to the stories in a tangible way, and leaving you with a greater appreciation for how this region shaped local communities. Whether you're interested in transportation history or seeking a family-friendly adventure, this scenic train voyage provides an engaging, educational experience that’s deeply rooted in Ohio’s past.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
The short tour departs from Mount Perry, includes onboard narration and a keepsake presentation, travels through coal-mining country associated with the Little Cities of Black Diamonds, then returns to the station.
Mount Perry Station — Departure
Boarding and departure from the Mount Perry station mark the start of the one-hour scenic journey.
Onboard Presentation
Historian Dave Adair shares accounts of the coal-mining era aboard the train and presents each passenger with a 'diamond in the rough.'
Scenic Passage & Return
The train traverses the landscape tied to the Little Cities of Black Diamonds before returning to Mount Perry station to conclude the hour-long outing.
Handicap access is limited; passengers with mobility concerns should consider that accessibility options are restricted and check with the operator in advance.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Firsthand Storytelling by a Local Historian
Historian Dave Adair leads the narration aboard the train, bringing the coal-mining era and the lives of miners in the Little Cities of Black Diamonds into sharp relief for passengers.
A Tangible Link to the Past
Each guest receives a 'diamond in the rough' during the trip—a small, memorable token that underscores the tour’s focus on tangible local history.
Scenic Railroad Passage Through Coal Country
The one-hour scenic rail journey threads through the region historically tied to Ohio’s coal industry, offering views and context that anchor the stories told onboard.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
The experience is compact and immersive: a leisurely, one-hour loop from Mount Perry where narration, landscape, and a small keepsake combine to deliver a clear, approachable primer on the region’s coal-mining history. The format is relaxed and family-oriented, designed for passengers to sit back and listen as the historian connects present-day places to their industrial past.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The trip duration is one hour. Please arrive 15 minutes before the train departs to allow for boarding.
Dress for the weather—the train runs rain or shine—so bring rain protection if the forecast calls for it. The outing is short and seats are provided.
Operated by the Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad from Mount Perry, the station has porta-potties available; note that handicap access is limited.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The scenic train experience lasts one hour.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before the train departs for boarding.
Is the train wheelchair accessible?
Handicap access is limited; passengers with mobility needs should check with the operator in advance.
Are restrooms available?
Porta-potties are available at the station.
Does the trip run in bad weather?
The train runs rain or shine.
What will I learn or receive on the trip?
Historian Dave Adair provides narrated accounts of Ohio’s coal-mining history, and each guest receives a 'diamond in the rough' as a keepsake.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-10T12:13:36.142Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.