TAKE A BEAUTIFUL RIDE ON THE HIWASSEE RIVER SCENIC RAILROAD FOR A UNIQUE TRAIN JOURNEY IN EAST TENNESSEE.
Ride the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad for a One of the Most Beautiful Train Rides in East Tennessee
This train ride takes you on the historic Hook & Eye Loop where you will experience one of the few train journeys in North America that circles over itself while climbing Bald Mountain!
Choose Your Journey:
- The Hiwassee Loop: This ride is just about 4.5-hours of relaxation and gorgeous scenic views through the lower Hiwassee River Gorge. Departing from Delano, TN, passengers will embark on a journey that circles over itself as it climbs Bald Mountain, providing a unique experience of engineering from the late 1800s.
- The Copperhill Special: The Copperhill Special is an 8-hour adventure that takes passengers into the quaint town of Copperhill, TN. In Copperhill, indulge in delicious food at local eateries and shop at specialty stores that capture the town’s charming, small-town character.
Seating Options:
Passengers can choose from a variety of seating options:
- Traditional Coach: Offers a traditional and comfortable train travel experience.
- Observation: Provides excellent views through expansive windows.
- Dome: A premium seating option featuring panoramic glass ceilings for a fully immersive experience.
Check the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s website for detailed information on each seating option.
Commissary:
Enjoy snacks and find the perfect gift items in the Commissary!
Departures:
All train rides depart from and return to Delano, TN.
Photos: Provided by Noah Lovingood
Book Now: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is the historical significance of the Hook & Eye Loop and Copperhill Special?
The Hook & Eye Loop is a rare engineering marvel that showcases the ingenuity of railroad construction in the late 19th century. It was part of the L&N Railroad’s Hiwassee Loop line, built to transport copper ore from the Copper Basin area. The Copperhill Special takes visitors to Copperhill, TN, a town historically known for its copper mining industry. Today, these train rides offer a glimpse into East Tennessee’s rich industrial past and celebrate the legacy of rail travel.
2. What is the difference between The Loop and the Copperhill Special?
The Loop is a shorter, 4.5-hour round-trip ride through the lower Hiwassee River Gorge, perfect for those seeking a relaxing yet immersive train journey. The Copperhill Special is an 8-hour journey that includes a stopover in the charming town of Copperhill, TN, providing opportunities to explore local shops and eateries.
3. What amenities are available on the train rides?
Passengers can enjoy various seating options, from Traditional Coach to premium Dome. Additionally, the Commissary offers snacks and unique gift items. Each train car is equipped with restroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.