Take a 3.5-hour scenic train ride through Hiwassee Gorge and enjoy breathtaking views of cliffs and lush forests. Discover the region’s natural beauty and railroad history in this family-friendly adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity required
Wildlife
History
The Hiwassee River Gorge has shaped local lore and served as a critical route for the region’s logging industry in the early 1900s.
Conservation
The region emphasizes sustainability, with efforts to preserve the natural beauty and health of the gorge while maintaining accessible recreation activities.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Take a 3.5-hour scenic train ride through Hiwassee Gorge and enjoy breathtaking views of cliffs and lush forests. Discover the region’s natural beauty and railroad history in this family-friendly adventure.
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum preserves and operates historic passenger trains and locomotives in East Tennessee, offering a broad range of scenic excursions, specialty dinner trains, seasonal holiday rides, and educational exhibits. The museum operates restored steam and diesel locomotives, vintage passenger coaches, and heritage dining cars to recreate authentic rail travel experiences for families, history buffs, photographers, and rail enthusiasts. Signature trips include long-distance scenic runs such as the Summerville Steam Special and Hiwassee Gorge Limited, daily local rides like the Missionary Ridge Local and Evening Ridge Runner, and memorable special events such as the Holiday Lights Train, North Pole Limited, Valentine’s Dinner Train, and Rails, Wizards & Spells. Dining options feature multi-course gourmet menus served aboard restored dining cars for events like Dinner on the Diner, Christmas Dinner Train, and New Year’s Eve Dinner Train. The museum also hosts curated programs — night photo sessions, tea room gatherings, exhibit admission for permanent galleries, and themed family experiences — all framed by knowledgeable staff and volunteer interpreters. Routes traverse the Hiwassee River Gorge, historic tunnels, and scenic bridges, with guided narration and scheduled layovers for exploration. As a preservation-focused institution, the museum emphasizes safety, authentic restoration practices, and community engagement, supporting regional heritage through volunteer programs and educational outreach. Visitors can book seasonal excursions, private charters, and museum admission online or at the Grand Junction Depot. The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum blends living history, scenic rail travel, and culinary events to create outings that celebrate the legacy of railroads in Tennessee Valley.
Scenic Routes
25+
Year-round seasonal and special excursions
Historic Fleet
Steam & diesel
Restored locomotives and dining cars
Experience Types
Dinner, Holiday, Scenic, Photo
Options for families and enthusiasts
Exhibits & Tours
Permanent galleries
Railroad history and preservation displays
Book tickets now for Summerville Steam, Hiwassee Gorge, North Pole Limited, and special event trains.
Dress Comfortably for the Ride
Clothing that’s suitable for varying temperatures and comfortable for sitting for long periods will enhance your experience.
Bring a Camera
The scenic vistas and wildlife moments are picture-worthy—don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Arrive Early
Getting to the station early ensures a good seat and a relaxed start to your journey.
Enjoy the Onboard Narration
Listen to the interesting stories about the natural features and historical background of the gorge.
Layered Clothing
Adjust clothing easily for changing temperatures during the trip.
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Camera or Smartphone
Capture the scenic views and wildlife along the route.
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Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing during the ride.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Snacks and Water
Keep refreshed and energized for the journey.
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