Title: Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone - Latest Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.ca [See all properties](http://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire cabin # Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone Cabin in Valley Head with kitchenette and patio ![Dining](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/9bf4efb3.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/53380b41.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![2 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/14678061.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Smart TV](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/15c2603b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, dishwasher](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/109000000/108820000/108814900/108814819/3d44d587.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Location - Amenities - Policies Experience a unique retreat in Mentone, Alabama at Claudia's Caboose. This lovingly renovated midcentury industrial train caboose features a kitchen with coffee bar and toaster oven/air fryer, while the outdoor space boasts a deck and firepit to enjoy the passing trains. With 2 areas for sleeping and smart TV for entertainment, this cozy abode is perfect for two adults and two children. 10 Exceptional ### Entire cabin 2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4300 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Dryer - Washer - Kitchen - Parking available - Barbecue grill - Outdoor space ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone Mentone/Valley Head. "One thing about trains... it doesn't matter where they're going. What matters is deciding to get on." (Polar Express) Nestled in the heart of Valley Head, Alabama, a unique beacon of nostalgia and comfort awaits: Claudia's Caboose. More than just a place to lay your head, this meticulously refurbished 1971 Southern Railways "Yellow Belly" bay window caboose offers a one-of-a-kind getaway, blending historical charm with modern amenities. For decades, this sturdy railcar traversed the local routes of the Southeast, a silent witness to the changing landscapes. Retired in the mid-1970s, its journey took an unexpected turn in 2022 when Robert and Claudia, with a vision for something truly special, brought it to its final destination in Valley Head. Situated perfectly between the active Norfolk Southern railroad tracks and the scenic Highway 117, Claudia's Caboose offers a delightful experience of past and present. The transformation from hardworking railcar to cozy retreat began in 2022. The loving renovation preserved the caboose's inherent character while introducing all the comforts of home. Step inside, and you're greeted by a thoughtfully designed interior that subtly nods to its 1970s origins. The compact yet efficient kitchen is equipped with everything you need, from a microwave and toaster oven/airfryer to a dishwasher, small refrigerator and coffee bar, all centered around a charming dining table for four. The living area invites relaxation with a comfortable full pull-out couch and a flat-screen TV, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Down a short hallway, you'll find a “master bedroom” boasting a luxurious queen-size mattress and another flat screen TV. Even the small bathroom is a testament to clever design, featuring a tiled shower, toilet, and sink. But the charm of Claudia's Caboose extends beyond its interior. Step outside onto the expansive deck, where you can fire up the charcoal grill for a delightful outdoor meal or gather around the fire pit as the stars begin to pepper the Alabama sky. For train enthusiasts, the location is a dream. While the adjacent track isn't a main line, the occasional rumble and whistle serve as a gentle reminder of the caboose's storied past, adding a touch of authentic railway ambiance to your stay. Claudia's Caboose is more than just a rental; it's an experience crafted with care by Claudia and Robert, the owners of the Mountainwood Cottages family, which also includes a traditional cottage in nearby Mentone. Their dedication to creating unique and memorable getaways shines through in every detail. For those seeking a shorter escape, Claudia's Caboose offers Beyond the unique accommodation itself, Claudia's Caboose serves as an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of the region. Just a short drive away lies the breathtaking DeSoto Falls, the expansive DeSoto State Park, and the dramatic beauty of Little River Canyon. The quaint town of Mentone, with its artsy vibe and scenic overlooks, is also within easy reach. Claudia'sCaboose in Valley Head offers a chance to step off the beaten path and into a piece of railway history. It's a place where the echoes of the past meet the comforts of the present, promising an unforgettable and truly unique Alabama adventure. So, if you're looking for a getaway with character and charm, all aboard for Claudia's Caboose! Vist Alabama's most unique stay at Claudia's caboose! For specials - CLAUDIASCABOOSE. ## Property amenities ### Internet - Available in the cabin: Free WiFi ### Parking and transportation - Parking on site ### Kitchenette - Coffee grinder - Coffee/tea maker - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Microwave - Oven - Paper towels - Refrigerator - Toaster ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - 2 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 1 bathroom - Hair dryer - Shampoo - Shower - Soap - Toilet paper - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Dining table ### Entertainment - Games - Smart TV ### Outdoor areas - Barbecue grill - Firepit - Garden - Outdoor furniture - Patio ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washing machine ### Comfort - Air conditioning - Heating ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - 8 steps to reach entrance - Area rugs in public areas - Hardwood flooring in public areas - No elevator - Smoking not allowed ### Location highlights - In a rural location ### Things to do - Birdwatching nearby - Fishing nearby - Golfing nearby - Hiking/biking trails nearby - Horseback riding nearby - Kayaking nearby - Mountain biking nearby - Mountain climbing nearby - Rock climbing nearby - Swimming nearby - Wildlife walks nearby ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - Fire extinguisher ### General - At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability - At least 80% lighting from LEDs - Eco-friendly cleaning products used - Garden - Humane treatment of captive wild animals - Recycling - Unit size: 300 square feet - Water-efficient toilets ## Similar properties ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/111000000/110860000/110851800/110851732/52e2f2df.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Fully restored cabin, 150 years old, nestled on Lookout Creek Farms Valley Head - Kitchen - Pet-friendly - Free WiFi - Air conditioning 9.8 Exceptional 12 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-10&endDate=2025-12-11&selected=110851732&PinnedHotelID=110851732&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Property grounds](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/84000000/83220000/83216900/83216854/cf6fe097.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### THE WOODLANDS - VERY QUIET SECLUDED CABIN Mentone - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Air conditioning 10 Exceptional 78 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-10&endDate=2025-12-11&selected=83216854&PinnedHotelID=83216854&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Terrace/patio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/114000000/113340000/113335500/113335443/698cb18a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Tiny Cub House | Mentone | 1.7 Acres | Fast Wi-Fi | Dog Friendly | BBQ | FirePit Mentone - Kitchen - Pet-friendly - Free WiFi - Air conditioning 10 Exceptional 10 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-10&endDate=2025-12-11&selected=113335443&PinnedHotelID=113335443&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Smart TV, fireplace](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/73000000/72650000/72647100/72647032/2fa5685b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### RUSTIC GLAM Mentone - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Pet-friendly 9.2 Wonderful 32 reviews CA $161 CA $445 total includes taxes & fees Nov 30 - Dec 1 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-30&endDate=2025-12-01&selected=72647032&PinnedHotelID=72647032&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Terrace/patio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/89000000/88070000/88067600/88067597/c5794728.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Mentone's favorite Cozy Cabin! In the heart of Mentone: In Town but Far Out Mentone - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Pet-friendly 10 Exceptional 55 reviews CA $169 CA $355 total includes taxes & fees Dec 1 - Dec 2 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-01&endDate=2025-12-02&selected=88067597&PinnedHotelID=88067597&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Exterior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/30000000/29750000/29742300/29742273/422f091d.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Private Cabin Nestled and Bordering the Otting Tract WMA On Lookout Mt. Menlo - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Pet-friendly 8.8 Excellent 264 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-10&endDate=2025-12-11&selected=29742273&PinnedHotelID=29742273&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![TV, DVD player, video library](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/34000000/33500000/33495100/33495097/fd440d4a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Black Bear Mentone - Kitchen - Air conditioning - Parking available - Barbecue grill 9.8 Exceptional 87 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-10&endDate=2025-12-11&selected=33495097&PinnedHotelID=33495097&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/96000000/95840000/95832800/95832748/513fce5a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Private Creek and walking distance to downtown Mentone! Mentone - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer - Free WiFi 10 Exceptional 74 reviews [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-10&endDate=2025-12-11&selected=95832748&PinnedHotelID=95832748&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![1 bedroom, iron/ironing board, bed sheets](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/38000000/37280000/37280000/37279946/da45f476.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Amazing Mountain Views Special Rates Book Today Mentone - Kitchen - Air conditioning - Outdoor space - Parking available 9.2 Wonderful 79 reviews CA $177 CA $318 total includes taxes & fees Dec 7 - Dec 8 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-12-07&endDate=2025-12-08&selected=37279946&PinnedHotelID=37279946&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![TV, fireplace, DVD player](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/35000000/34330000/34325900/34325817/a7bffbfa.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Spectacular Mountain Top cabin Amazing Views Large Balcony With Low Rates Mentone - Pool - Kitchen - Air conditioning - Outdoor space 9.8 Exceptional 92 reviews CA $202 CA $343 total includes taxes & fees Nov 30 - Dec 1 [](https://www.expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-11-30&endDate=2025-12-01&selected=34325817&PinnedHotelID=34325817&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Policies ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions ### Rules A rental agreement/guest register will be sent to your email after you book. ID and agreement to be provided within 24 hours. NO exceptions ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation ### We should mention This property does not have elevators ## About the area ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6¢er=34.567352,-85.613716&zoom=13&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&path=color:0xFFFFF|weight:2|fillcolor:0x005AEB7F|enc:ai_rEvlpiO%3FS%3FS%40Q%3FS%40Q%40S%40Q%40S%40Q%40Q%40SBQBQBQBSBQBQBQDQDQBQDQDQDODQFQDOFQFODQHOFOFOFOHMFQHMFOHMHMJMHOHMHMJKHMJKJMJKJMJKJKJIJKLKJILILKJGLILILILGLGLGLGLGNELGLELGNENCLELENCNCLCNCNCNCLANANCN%3FNALAN%3FN%3FNAN%40L%3FN%3FN%40N%40N%3FNBL%40N%40NBNBLBNBNBLBNDLDNDLBNFLDLFLDNFLFLFLFLFLHLHJHLFLJJHLHJJJJLHJJJJJLJJJLHJJLHJJLHLHNHLHLHNHLFLHPHLFNFNFPFLFPFNDPFNDPFPDNDPBPDPDPBPDPBPBPBRBPBP%40P%40RBP%40P%40R%40P%40R%3FP%40R%3FP%3FR%3FR%3FP%3FR%3FPAR%3FPARAPARAPCPARAPCPCRCPCPCPEPCPEPEPCPEPEPGNEPGPENGNGPGLGPGNGNILIPGLILININIJINILKLILKJILKJKLKJKJKJMHKJKJMHKHMJMFKJMFMHMFMFMFMHODMDMFMDOFMBODMDODMBOBODM%40OBOBO%40M%40OBO%40O%3FO%40O%3FM%3FO%40OAO%3FO%3FMAO%3FOAOCOAMAOCOCOAMEOCOCMEMEOCOEMGMEMGOEMEMIMGMGMGMIMGMKKGMKMIKIMKKKKIKKKKKKKMKKKMIKKMIMIMIOKKIOIMGOIMGQIMGOGOGOIOEQGOGOEQGQEOEQEQEQCQEQEQCQCQCQCQCSCQCQASAQAQASAQASAQ%3FSAQ%3FS%3FQ&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=SRt-DS7-Hw19DKVYMXvRRkWGsuI=) Valley Head, AL #### What's nearby - Valley Head Town Park - 9 min walk - 0.8 km - Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort - 9 min drive - 5.9 km - DeSoto State Park - 14 min drive - 10.3 km - Cloudland Canyon State Park - 33 min drive - 50.3 km - Weiss Lake - 50 min drive - 55.3 km #### Restaurants - ‪The Hatter Cafe - ‬8 min drive - ‪McDonald's - ‬9 min drive - ‪Craigsmere - ‬12 min drive - ‪Wildflower Cafe - ‬4 min drive - ‪Elevation. Bistro - ‬5 min drive ## Frequently asked questions ### Is Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone pet-friendly? > No, pets are not allowed at this property. ### How much does it cost to stay at Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone? > As of Nov 26, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone on Dec 1, 2025 start from CA $162.18, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. [Choose your dates](https://www.expedia.ca/Valley-Head-Hotels-All-Aboard-One-Of-The-Most-Unique-Rentals-In-The-Southeast-Claudias-Caboose.h108814819.Hotel-Information?rfrr=HOT.HIS.question.link.click) for more accurate prices. ### How much is parking? > Onsite parking is available at the property. ### Where is Authentic Train Caboose! Less than 5 minutes to Desoto Park, Falls, Mentone located? > Situated in a rural location, this cabin is 0.6 mi (1 km) from Valley Head Town Park and within 6 mi (10 km) of Mentone Town Hall and Eagle Nest. DeSoto Falls and Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort are also within 6 mi (10 km). ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Expedia's Latest Trends ### Hotels > [Silver Reef Casino Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Bellingham-Hotels-Silver-Reef-Casino-Resort.h16231932.Hotel-Information) > > [Shooting Star Casino & Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Thief-River-Falls-Hotels-Shooting-Star-Casino-Hotel.h28874246.Hotel-Information) > > [Canad Inns Destination Center Grand Forks](https://www.expedia.ca/Grand-Forks-Hotels-Canad-Inns-Destination-Center-Grand-Forks.h1713856.Hotel-Information) > > [JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-JW-Marriott-Desert-Springs-Resort-Spa.h17123.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton Waikoloa Village](https://www.expedia.ca/Waikoloa-Hotels-Hilton-Waikoloa-Village.h19640.Hotel-Information) > > [Angel Of The Winds Casino Resort](https://www.expedia.ca/Everett-Hotels-Angel-Of-The-Winds-Casino-Resort.h9689970.Hotel-Information) > > [Marriott's Shadow Ridge I-The Villages](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-Marriotts-Shadow-Ridge.h853695.Hotel-Information) > > [Semiahmoo Resort Golf & Spa, Trademark Collection by Wyndham](https://www.expedia.ca/Bellingham-Hotels-Semiahmoo-Resort-Golf-Spa.h13986.Hotel-Information) > > [Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth](https://www.expedia.ca/Saginaw-Hotels-Bavarian-Inn-Of-Frankenmuth.h9809515.Hotel-Information) > > [Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino](https://www.expedia.ca/Salamanca-Hotels-Seneca-Allegany-Resort-Casino.h2238839.Hotel-Information) > > [Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa](https://www.expedia.ca/Marathon-Hotels-Isla-Bella-Beach-Resort-Spa.h24101706.Hotel-Information) > > [C'mon Inn Hotel & Suites](https://www.expedia.ca/Grand-Forks-Hotels-Cmon-Inn-Hotel-Suites.h1510580.Hotel-Information) > > [Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky OH](https://www.expedia.ca/Sandusky-Hotels-Great-Wolf-Lodge-Sandusky-OH.h1183594.Hotel-Information) > > [Darien Lake Lodge on the Lake](https://www.expedia.ca/Corfu-Hotels-Darien-Lake-Lodge-On-The-Lake.h13279584.Hotel-Information) > > [La Quinta Resort & Club, Curio Collection by Hilton](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-La-Quinta-Resort-Club.h10916.Hotel-Information) > > [The Brook at Turning Stone Resort Casino](https://www.expedia.ca/Utica-Hotels-Turning-Stone-Resort-And-Casino.h1684407.Hotel-Information) > > [Hampton Inn Jasper](https://www.expedia.ca/Jasper-Hotels-Hampton-Inn-Jasper.h1760121.Hotel-Information) > > [The Trail in Adams - Berkshires’ Art Hotel](https://www.expedia.ca/Adams-Hotels-Topia-Inn-An-Organic-Oasis.h12259511.Hotel-Information) > > [The Breakers Palm Beach](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Beach-Hotels-The-Breakers-Palm-Beach.h8479.Hotel-Information) > > [Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Mobile](https://www.expedia.ca/Mobile-Hotels-Fairfield-Inn-Suites-By-Marriott-Mobile.h41871.Hotel-Information) > > [Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark](https://www.expedia.ca/Lake-George-Hotels-Six-Flags-Lodge-Indoor-Waterpark.h1385446.Hotel-Information) > > [Riviera Resort Palm Springs](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-Margaritaville-Resort-Palm-Springs.h26011.Hotel-Information) > > [Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings’ Land Waikoloa](https://www.expedia.ca/Waikoloa-Hotels-Kings-Land-By-Hilton-Grand-Vacations.h2303745.Hotel-Information) > > [Fairmont Orchid](https://www.expedia.ca/Kamuela-Hotels-Fairmont-Orchid.h25190.Hotel-Information) > > [Tulalip Resort Casino](https://www.expedia.ca/Everett-Hotels-Tulalip-Resort-Casino.h2161524.Hotel-Information) > > [TownePlace Suites By Marriott Mobile](https://www.expedia.ca/Mobile-Hotels-TownePlace-Suites-By-Marriott-Mobile.h427522.Hotel-Information) > > [The Westin Desert Willow Villas, Palm Desert](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-The-Westin-Desert-Willow-Villas.h3304313.Hotel-Information) > > [Hyatt Vacation Club at Desert Oasis](https://www.expedia.ca/Palm-Springs-Hotels-Welk-Resorts-Palm-Springs.h1140793.Hotel-Information) > > [Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort and Players Inn](https://www.expedia.ca/Hogansburg-Hotels-Akwesasne-Mohawk-Casino-Resort.h6009138.Hotel-Information) > > [Harrah’s Laughlin - A Caesars Rewards Destination](https://www.expedia.ca/Laughlin-Hotels-Harrahs-Laughlin-Hotel-Casino.h43310.Hotel-Information)