THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Take a leisurely 90-minute scenic train ride along the Hiwassee River through Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest. Explore stunning forest views, rocky bluffs, and the historic Apalachia Powerhouse while enjoying a comfortable adventure suitable for all ages.
Take a leisurely 90-minute scenic train ride along the Hiwassee River through Tennessee’s Cherokee National Forest. Explore stunning forest views, rocky bluffs, and the historic Apalachia Powerhouse while enjoying a comfortable adventure suitable for all ages.
Book with Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum · Delano, Tennessee
easy.
1.5 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; no strenuous activity required as this is a sitting scenic ride.
Parking is available at 9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN, near the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum boarding area.
It’s recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid sell-outs, especially during peak seasons; limited tickets may be available at the Etowah Depot on the day of departure.
Yes, you may bring food and non-alcoholic drinks onboard. Snacks and drinks are also available for purchase during the trip.
Yes, restrooms are available on the train and are located no more than one coach away from your seat.
Yes, the coaches are fully climate controlled for passenger comfort throughout the year.
No, due to the historical nature of the train cars, the ride is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility concerns should contact staff prior to arrival.
The Hiwassee Loop, part of the route, is an engineering landmark completed in 1910 to navigate the steep river gorge.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum emphasizes sustainable tourism and preserves this historic rail line to reduce environmental impact and promote awareness of the region's natural heritage.
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.
Book with Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum