MEMORABLE TRAIN RIDES THIS WEEKEND
All Aboard for a Memorable Weekend!
Another great weekend for train rides is here! At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, we’re excited to offer you plenty of opportunities for memory-making adventures:
The Missionary Ridge Local
Experience a journey back in time aboard the Missionary Ridge Local, featuring our 120-year-old steam engine #630. This round-trip ride offers a quick trip into history, lasting just over an hour and including a guided tour of the locomotive shop and a demonstration of the historic turntable.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the Missionary Ridge Local’s historical significance?
The Missionary Ridge Local recreates a historic route that once connected Chattanooga to North Georgia. Steam engine #630, built in 1904, is one of the last remaining Consolidation locomotives. Restored to operational condition, it now serves as a powerful reminder of early 20th-century rail travel.
2. How long is the Missionary Ridge Local ride?
The ride lasts just over an hour, making it perfect for families and those seeking a shorter train adventure.
The Hiwassee Loop Ride
For a longer journey, head to Delano, TN, where the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad kicks off its 2024 season with the famous Hiwassee Loop ride. This 4.5-hour ride showcases the stunning springtime views of East Tennessee as the train climbs the engineering marvel of the Hiwassee Loop.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What makes the Hiwassee Loop ride special?
The Hiwassee Loop is one of North America’s few train rides where the track loops over itself while climbing Bald Mountain. This engineering feat was constructed in the 1890s to serve the region’s copper mining industry, making it both historically significant and a marvel to behold.
2. How long does the Hiwassee Loop ride last?
The ride takes around 4.5 hours, offering passengers a relaxing and scenic journey through the lower Hiwassee River Gorge.
The Copperhill Special
On Saturday, the Copperhill Special begins operations, offering the beauty of the Loop ride plus a stop in Copperhill for shopping and dining before returning. At around 8 hours, this journey is perfect for a day of relaxing and enjoying East Tennessee’s scenic beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the historical significance of the Copperhill Special?
The Copperhill Special continues the journey along the historic Hiwassee Loop, traveling further to the charming town of Copperhill, TN. Copperhill was a copper mining hub in the 19th and 20th centuries, and the train ride allows passengers to explore this legacy firsthand.
2. How long does the Copperhill Special ride last?
The ride takes about 8 hours, including a stopover in Copperhill, giving passengers plenty of time to explore the town’s unique shops and eateries.
Plan Your Memorable Train Ride Weekend!
Plan now to ride this weekend and create your own history!
Tickets: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum