N&W 611 steam locomotive back on the rails for scenic journeys through Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley

Built in Appalachia in 1950, N&W 611 is still beloved around the world in 2025. The Queen of Steam returned to the rails Friday for passenger excursions, a highly anticipated return from the community and rail enthusiasts alike. That is part of the 611 magic; it’s a uniter that brings together a wide array of people who can appreciate a piece of history and celebrate what people can accomplish by working together.