COPPERHILL SPECIAL

Check-In Information

Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
The train departs promptly at 9:30 AM (Eastern Time) from:

9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing for the season
• Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
• A refillable water bottle
• A camera to capture scenic views and vintage railroad equipment

Accessibility & Requirements

• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Guests with limited mobility are encouraged to contact our staff in advance so we can assist with boarding.
• This experience is suitable for all ages, but please note that accessibility may be limited due to the historic nature of our railcars.

Onboard Amenities

Enjoy your ride with optional snacks, drinks, and souvenirs available for purchase,
including Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum t-shirts, hats, and keepsakes.

Important Notes

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum makes every effort to operate on schedule. However,
delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions or mechanical issues.
We appreciate your understanding and patience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Copperhill Special train depart? The Copperhill Special departs from TVRM’s Delano station—not from the main Chattanooga campus. Use 9406 Highway 411, Delano, TN 37325 for directions and parking.

When should I arrive, and what happens if I am late? Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time departure to allow time for parking, check-in, and boarding. The train cannot be held for late arrivals, and guests who miss boarding may forfeit their tickets.

How long is the Copperhill Special train ride? The Copperhill Special is an 8–9 hour, full-day excursion. The train departs Delano at 9:30 a.m. and returns at approximately 5:30 p.m. Operational conditions may affect the return time, so avoid making tight evening plans.

What does the Copperhill Special excursion include? The trip covers 94 miles round trip through the Hiwassee River Gorge, crosses the historic Hiwassee Loop, and includes a 90-minute layover in the neighboring towns of Copperhill, Tennessee, and McCaysville, Georgia.

Is lunch included, or can I order a box lunch? Lunch is not included in the base ticket price. A box lunch may be purchased as an add-on during booking, subject to availability. Guests who do not order a box lunch may purchase lunch during the 90-minute layover in Copperhill and McCaysville.

What seating classes are available on the Copperhill Special? Available options vary by travel date and may include Standard Coach, Signature Lounge, Crown Class, Dome and Observation seating, and 1877 Premium Cars. Review the Seating Options section for features, age requirements, accessibility considerations, and current fares, then select a date in the booking calendar to confirm availability and pricing.

Will members of my group be seated together? Seating is assigned by ticket type and availability. If members of your group book separately, use the same primary name on each reservation and contact [email protected] before your travel date so the reservations can be linked. Seating requests cannot be guaranteed.

Is the Copperhill Special suitable for children? Children are welcome, but families should consider the full 8–9 hour duration and the length of time before the layover. Families seeking a shorter train ride may prefer the Hiwassee Loop or Missionary Ridge Local.

What accessibility accommodations are available for mobility devices? The boarding ramp is 30 inches wide. The Copperhill Special can accommodate up to two scooters in the train vestibule. After a scooter is parked, guests must be able to move independently from the vestibule to their assigned seat. Standard rollator walkers can be accommodated in Lounge Car 1659, Coach 3101, Coach 662, and Parlor Coach 1877. Before booking, contact [email protected] so we can discuss your specific mobility device and seating needs.

Are restrooms, food, and drinks available onboard? Restrooms are available onboard. Light snacks and drinks may be purchased from the commissary, and certain premium seating options include complimentary snacks and beverages. Guests may also bring light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

What is the cancellation and Trip Protection policy? Standard ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Optional Trip Protection costs an additional 15% of the ticket price and must be purchased when booking. It permits written cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, with a refund of the ticket price minus the Trip Protection fee. To cancel an eligible reservation, email [email protected] or text 423-894-8028. Trip Protection cannot be added after purchase and is unavailable for bookings made less than 24 hours before departure.

Does the Copperhill Special operate in rain? The train generally operates rain or shine. Delays or schedule changes may occur because of weather, mechanical issues, or other operating conditions.

Are strollers, pets, or service animals allowed? Foldable strollers are permitted but must be stored during the ride because of the historic railcars’ narrow aisles. Pets and emotional-support animals are not permitted. Trained service animals as defined by the ADA are allowed.

Are group bookings or senior discounts available? Group options may be available; contact the TVRM office at 423-894-8028 or use the Group Information Form for current availability and pricing. Senior discounts are not offered on the Copperhill Special and are currently available only on Missionary Ridge Local train rides.

How is the Copperhill Special different from the Hiwassee Loop? Both excursions travel through the Hiwassee River Gorge and cross the Hiwassee Loop. The Copperhill Special continues to Copperhill and McCaysville and includes a 90-minute layover, making it the longer, full-day experience. The Hiwassee Loop is the shorter option.

Can I use a rideshare service in Delano? Rideshare availability may be limited in Delano, particularly when the train returns. Arrange transportation in advance and do not assume a driver will be available after the excursion.

Cancellation & Trip Protection Policy

All ticket sales are final, and standard tickets are non-refundable.

For added flexibility, guests may purchase Trip Protection at the time of booking.

Trip Protection Details:

• Available for an additional 15% of the ticket price
• Allows cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
• Refund issued minus the Trip Protection fee
• Cancellations must be submitted in writing to [email protected]
  or via text to 423-894-8028

Important Notes:

• Trip Protection cannot be added after purchase
• Trip Protection is not available for bookings made less than 24 hours before departure
• No refunds are available without Trip Protection

This policy helps us operate historic equipment responsibly while offering guests optional peace of mind when planning ahead.

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