Quick Details
Ride Through the Famous Hiwassee Loop
Embark on the scenic Ride Through the Famous Hiwassee Loop and delight in a 50-mile roundtrip journey through the stunning lower Hiwassee River gorge. Our excursion commences at 1:30 p.m. and concludes around 5:30 p.m., encompassing a 5-hour adventure that will take you to the apex of the renowned Hiwassee Loop. Witness this incredible railway marvel near Farner, Tennessee, where the tracks intriguingly cross over themselves as they spiral up the mountain. Notably, there are only six such loops in North America, with this one being the sole example east of the Mississippi River. Please note that there is no layover on this trip; passengers will enjoy the entire duration on the train.
The railroad over which Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum trains travel on its Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad was formerly part of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad’s Atlanta Division stretching between Etowah, Tennessee, and Marietta, Georgia.
IMPORTANT: Ticket prices vary for the Fall Premium dates, which occur in October through the first two weeks of November.
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Passengers switch sides at our midway point from the mountain side to the river side and vise versa so everyone has an opportunity to experience all scenic views.
- All ages
- Priced per Seat
- The dome is on the second floor of the car and features a glass top ceiling.
- Dome seats around 18 individuals
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
- Ages 13+
- Priced per Seat
- The dome is on the second floor of the car and features a glass top ceiling.
- Dome seats around 18 individuals
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
- Ages 13+
- Priced per Seat
- The observation seating is on the ground floor and features a round end with windows.
- Observation seats 12
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
- All ages
- Priced per Seat
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This train departs from Delano (9406 hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325) and NOT from Chattanooga. Departure from Delano is 1:30 p.m., return is approximately 6:30-6:45 p.m.
The Hiwassee Loop Location is about between 51 minutes and 2 hours from Chattanooga, and it’s well worth the drive. Please give yourself enough time before our departure. It is the perfect place to spend a day if you’re looking for something fun and unique to do. The local police are on the lookout for speeders, so be sure to stay under their posted speed limits if you want to avoid getting a ticket.
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- Snack items are available for sale on the train, including soft drinks, coffee, water, chips, crackers, and candy bars.
- You are also welcome to bring your own lunch with you (alcohol is prohibited).
- Souvenirs are sold onboard, including T-shirts, caps, and books.
- Restrooms are located on each train car.
- Trains consist of enclosed, climate-controlled coaches pulled by a diesel locomotive.
- Coach seating is open, while limited first-class tickets are available for reservation.
- Parking is located at 9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325
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- Can I bring food and beverages on the train?
- Yes, food and beverages may be consumed while on board all trains. Please help keep our trains clean and use trash receptacles. Report any problems to the conductor or train crew. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on TVRM trains.
- Why are passengers requested to swap seats at the midway point?
- We request that passengers move from one side to the other at the excursion’s midway point. Since the train doesn’t turn around, this is the only way to assure that everyone gets the same views. We appreciate your cooperation.
- Can we get up and walk around on the train?
- Yes, passengers can move about on the train.
- Why can’t the train be boarded at the l&n depot & museum?
- The current CSX mainline is the only rail line running past the depot and our trains are not allowed on those tracks. CSX handles freight traffic only in this area. The “Old Line” tracks branch off the CSX near Wetmore.
- Is the train accessible for wheelchairs?
- Historic rail cars were built before the advent of technology which accommodates people with special needs. Our rail cars were not designed to accommodate wheelchairs safely. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recognizes the limitations of such historic rail equipment and expressly exempts trains and stations of this type from accessibility requirements. Though we cannot accommodate wheelchair use or access within our historical passenger cars, all persons who can board the train themselves and occupy a standard passenger seat are welcome and encouraged to ride.
- More FAQs for Delano trips – Click here
- Can I bring food and beverages on the train?
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Special educational rates are available for the Hiwassee Loop excursion. Click here to learn more.
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Hiwassee Loop
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