Have you ever been on a train ride? Nowadays the train seems to be going the way of the streetcar, neat when you can ride one but nothing more than a fun experience. It's hard to find a train, first off, but here in the south, our deep history with the railroad offers up all sorts of local options. We do have plenty of train rides in Tennessee, but our favorite? Well, that's hard to choose...but come autumn time, you can't beat a Hiwassee Loop train ride.
There are all sorts of stunning railroad-centric adventures offered by the Tennessee Valley Railroad, but we're partial to the Hiwassee Loop Train Ride experience. It runs mainly on the weekends, from the end of March to just around Thanksgiving.
The ride itself runs for roughly five hours, with the train departing from Delano and making a fifty mile round trip through the Hiwassee River gorge.
The countryside is stunning, and we're particularly in love with the experience during the autumn season.
You'll have the chance to indulge in a vintage experience as you make your way to the top of Hiwassee Loop, offering some of the most beautiful train-side views out there.
Ticket prices tend to vary by season as well by date, but you can count on an adult ticket costing roughly $50 a ticket and children 2-12 requiring a $34 ticket. Since prices vary depending on the season always be sure to check the schedule and the prices online to plan your trip. Your train will run its route rain or shine, so there are no worries about the weather!
Seating on the train is general admission, but you can choose to pay an extra fee for the pictured dome seat, where the windows wrap around above you, giving you an incredible look at the local scenery.
If you're looking to upgrade to the ultra-comfortable observation seats, no one's going to be mad about it. Food is not served on the train itself, but you can bring your own lunch and snacks or you can choose to indulge in beverages and snacks from the dining car.
Have you ever taken the Hiwassee Loop Train Ride? Would you ever take a chance on an old-fashioned train ride? We'd highly recommend it!
Not quite convinced? This might do it:
Pretty incredible, wouldn't you say? I know with lots of train rides in Tennessee it can be hard to choose but we think taking the Hiwassee River scenic railway a great choice. For any more information on this amazing train ride or other great train rides in Tennessee please visit the Tennessee Valley Rail Road website. If you're looking for a bit more fun in the great outdoors, this autumnal hike is pretty incredible.
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