Posted in Tennessee
October 10, 2018
This 50-Mile Train Ride Is The Most Relaxing Way To Enjoy Tennessee Scenery
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. Our favorite? Well, that’s hard to choose…but come autumn time, you can’t beat a ride through the Hiwassee Loop.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
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 before Thanksgiving.
The ride itself runs for roughly three and a half hours, with the train departing from Etowah 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. You can also purchase a family 4-pack, which includes two adult and two child tickets for the low price of $99. 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? If you’re looking for a bit more fun in the great outdoors, this autumnal hike is pretty incredible.
https://www.tvrail.com/events-exhibits/rides/hiwassee-loop
