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Trains run every weekend and some weekdays for the entire summer, with the schedule expanding as fall color approaches.
The “Old Line Railroad” is known for its rugged beauty, history, and up close experience with nature. The line still retains much of the character that made it distinctive when it was built in 1890.
The Hiwassee River Rail Adventure makes it possible for people to experience the “Old Line Railroad” today and see much of what train travelers saw a century ago. People are still amazed at the engineering fete that created the Hiwassee Loop, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Hiwassee River Rail Adventure offers a choice of two railroad experiences.
• The “Loop Trip” is a 3 ½ hour ride through the Hiwassee River Gorge and over the Hiwassee Loop.
• The “Copperhill Special” is a daylong train ride to the former copper mining town of Copperhill, Tenn., where passengers enjoy a two-hour layover for dining and shopping.
Each train features comfortable coach seating with large windows for viewing the passing scenery. The vintage, climate-controlled coaches are pulled by historic diesel locomotives from the 1950s and early '60s.
Light refreshments are available on the train but passengers are welcome to bring a box lunch along, just like travelers did in 1890.
All trips begin with a short bus ride from the restored L&N Depot Museum in Etowah to the train boarding location at Gee Creek State Park Ranger Station, six miles south of Etowah.
Parking in Etowah is free.
Riders with special needs can arrange for parking at the train departure location by calling the L&N Depot Museum.
Tickets may be ordered by calling the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum at (423) 894-8028 between the hours of 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Mondays through Fridays, or online at www.tvrail.com.
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