COPPERHILL SPECIAL

Passengers switch sides at our midway point from the mountain side to the river side and vise versa so everyone has an opportunity to experience all scenic views.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a unique experience for visitors, with a Copperhill Special Train that features dome seating for the best view of the scenery.

Dome (9410):

• All ages
• Priced per Seat
• The dome is on the second floor of the car and features a glass top ceiling.
• Dome seats around 18 individuals
• Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
• Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.

Dome (Algonquin Park): 

• Ages 13+
• Priced per Seat
• The dome is on the second floor of the car and features a glass top ceiling.
• Dome seats around 18 individuals
• Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
• Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is offering a special opportunity to experience the 360 degree views of the upper level dome. This is a great chance to see the beautiful scenery of the area.

Observation:

• Ages 13+
• Priced per Seat
• The observation seating is on the ground floor and features a round end with windows.
• Observation seats 12
• Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
• Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.

The observation car is a type of passenger coach, often found at the rear and thus with windows for viewing. This form was nearly universally removed from service on American railroads beginning in 1950’s but some still exist today!

Coach:

• All ages
• Priced per Seat

Crown Class:

• This is the ground level seating area in car 9410.
• Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.

1. Can I Reserve Tickets in Advance?

Please purchase your tickets in advance online to avoid disappointment. Tickets are available at the Etowah Depot before departure times if not sold out in advance. On peak days, especially during the autumn season, tickets sell out well in advance. Check availability online and purchase your tickets early.

2. Where Do I Park?

Report to our parking area at:
9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325

3. Can I Bring Food and Beverages on the Train?

Yes, food and beverages may be consumed while on board all trains. Please help keep our trains clean and use trash receptacles. Report any problems to the conductor or train crew. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on TVRM trains.

4. Are There Restroom Facilities on the Train?

Yes, restroom facilities are available on the train and are never more than one coach length from your seat.

5. Is the Train Air-Conditioned or Heated?

The coaches are air-conditioned and heated for passenger comfort.

6. What if I Have Trouble Climbing Stairs?

If you have difficulty climbing stairs, please contact us at [email protected] before purchasing tickets. Dome and Observation seating are not recommended as they require walking up stairs.

Historic rail cars were built before the advent of technology which accommodates people with special needs. Our rail cars were not designed to accommodate wheelchairs safely. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recognizes the limitations of such historic rail equipment and expressly exempts trains and stations of this type from accessibility requirements. Though we cannot accommodate wheelchair use or access within our historical passenger cars, all persons who can board the train themselves and occupy a standard passenger seat are welcome and encouraged to ride.

7. Does the Train Run if it is Raining?

Trains operate rain or shine. The coaches are fully covered and enclosed from the elements with heating or air conditioning as needed.

8. Why Are Passengers Requested to Swap Seats at the Midway Point?

We request passengers to move from one side to the other at the midway point of the excursion. Since the train does not turn around, this ensures everyone gets equal views of the scenery.

9. Can We Get Up and Walk Around on the Train?

Yes, passengers are allowed to move about the train.

10. Why Can’t the Train Be Boarded at the L&N Depot & Museum?

The current CSX mainline is the only rail line running past the depot and our trains are not allowed on those tracks. CSX handles freight traffic only in this area. The “Old Line” tracks branch off the CSX near Wetmore.

11. What is the Purpose of TVRM?

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit educational corporation. The mission of TVRM is to preserve, operate, and display railroad artifacts to educate the public about the historical role of railroads.

12. Can We Bring Our Pet on the Train?

Service animals (defined as dogs trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities) are welcome at TVRM.

13. Is Food Available on the Train?

You can purchase refreshments onboard the commissary car, which sells food, snack items, and souvenirs. Passengers in premium dome coach and dome observation seating receive complimentary snacks.

14. Can I Visit the Depot Museum?

Be sure to visit the L&N Depot and Museum located at 727 Tennessee Ave South, Etowah, TN 37331. The museum typically closes at 4 pm.

15. Can I Bring a Firearm with a Concealed Carry Permit?

No firearms are permitted on our property as authorized by T.C.A. Section 39-17-1359.

16. Who Makes These Trips Possible?

The Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association is our host with support from Glenn Springs Holdings Inc. TVRM operates the trains, while the railroad line is owned by the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association.

17. Where Should I Stay Overnight?

Etowah and the surrounding region have various hotel, cabin, and lodging options. Visit the Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association for more information.

18. What if I Have Tickets for a Train Trip Based in Chattanooga?

All Chattanooga train services depart from Grand Junction Station in Chattanooga unless otherwise specified. It is about a 1 hour drive from Chattanooga to Delano.

19. Do You Accept Monetary Donations?

Yes, all contributions to TVRM are tax-deductible and appreciated. Donors are recognized by a letter of receipt and in the association’s newsletter, Smoke & Cinders.

CANCELLATION POLICY: All sales are final, and no refunds are issued.

However, for added flexibility, we now offer Trip Protection. For an additional 15% of your ticket price, you may cancel your trip up to 24 hours before departure and receive a refund minus the Trip Protection fee. Cancellations must be submitted in writing to [email protected] or via text to 423-894-8028. Please note, Trip Protection is not available for bookings made less than 24 hours in advance and may not be added after your purchase.

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