MISSIONARY RIDGE LOCAL TRAIN RIDE

1. Narrated Ride Through Missionary Ridge

Travel a three-mile rail line dating to the 1850s while your conductor shares Chattanooga’s railroad history.

• Missionary Ridge Tunnel, completed before the Civil War
• Four historic railroad bridges
• Active rail yards and preserved equipment

2. Working Turntable Demonstration

At East Chattanooga Depot, watch the locomotive move onto TVRM’s historic turntable and rotate for the return trip.

3. Restoration Shop Visit

Tour TVRM’s active restoration shop to see locomotives, railcars, machinery, and preservation work in progress. Because this is a working shop, guests remain with the guide. Visitors who prefer not to enter may remain aboard the train.

4. Return to Grand Junction

Reboard for the approximately 15-minute return ride with additional narration and photo opportunities.

The Missionary Ridge Local is a historic urban rail line, not a long-distance scenic excursion. The focus of this experience is railroad operations, history, and behind-the-scenes access rather than expansive natural views.

Along the route, guests will see:

• Bridges crossing Chickamauga Creek
• The pre–Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel
• Active rail yards and historic equipment
• Neighborhood and industrial views along the corridor

For sweeping river gorges, mountain landscapes, and extended scenic views, we recommend our Hiwassee Loop or Copperhill Special excursions — both specifically designed for guests seeking immersive scenery.

Best for:

• Families with young children
• First-time TVRM visitors
• Railroad and history enthusiasts
• Travelers seeking an experience that fits into about 65 minutes

Consider another ride if you prefer:

• Mountain and river scenery: Hiwassee Loop
• A full-day excursion: Copperhill Special
• Dining aboard the train: Chattanooga Dinner Train

How long is the experience?

Allow approximately 65 minutes. The train moves for about 30 minutes total; the remaining time includes boarding, the turntable demonstration, guided transitions, and the restoration shop visit.

What happens at East Chattanooga?

Guests watch the locomotive turn on a working turntable and join a guided visit inside TVRM’s active restoration shop. Guests who prefer not to enter the shop may remain aboard.

Is this a scenic train ride?

This is primarily a railroad-history and behind-the-scenes experience. The urban route includes Missionary Ridge Tunnel, historic bridges, rail yards, neighborhoods, and industrial views.

What locomotive pulls the train?

The ride is normally diesel-powered. Steam is not guaranteed unless a departure is specifically advertised as steam-powered.

Is the ride suitable for young children?

Yes. The short format and varied activities make it one of TVRM’s most family-friendly experiences. Infants under two may ride on an adult’s lap without a reserved seat.

Where does the train depart?

Departures leave from Grand Junction Depot at 4119 Cromwell Road in Chattanooga—not TVRM’s Delano location.

Is food available?

Snacks and drinks are available from the Depot Deli before departure. Food add-ons may also be offered during booking.

Is the experience accessible?

Historic equipment and the working shop have accessibility limitations. Contact TVRM before booking to discuss boarding assistance and specific needs.

Do I need to print my ticket?

No. A digital confirmation displayed on your phone is accepted.

When should I arrive?

Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure for parking, check-in, and boarding.

Ride in the cab of a working locomotive with the crew. Availability is limited, first come, first served, and cannot be reserved in advance.

Steam Locomotive Cab Ride

• Price: $55 one way or $80 round trip
• Clothing: Long pants without holes and closed-toe shoes; no high heels
• Ages: Guests 12–14 must ride with an adult; guests 15+ may ride independently
• Capacity: Two riders per trip

Diesel Locomotive Cab Ride

• Price: $35 one way or $50 round trip
• Clothing: Closed-toe shoes; no high heels
• Ages: Guests 10–14 must ride with an adult; guests 15+ may ride independently
• Capacity: Two riders per trip

Riders must be able to climb into the locomotive cab. Protective eyewear and earplugs are provided. Guests who do not meet safety or clothing requirements cannot participate.

Discounts

Senior, AAA, military, and first-responder discounts are available by phone or in person. Call (423) 894-8028 or visit the Grand Junction Depot ticket office. These discounts cannot be redeemed online.

Birthday Offer

On your birthday, choose one complimentary Missionary Ridge Local ride or free exhibit-building admission. Redeem the offer in person with documentation showing the guest’s birth date. The offer is valid only on the birthday and cannot be combined or redeemed online.

Annual Pass holders and eligible members can reserve covered Missionary Ridge Local tickets online:

1. Select Book Now and choose a date and departure.
2. Enter your Member ID in the booking screen and select Apply.
3. Choose the eligible free or discounted tickets.
4. Complete checkout using the email address associated with the membership.

Passes can be used immediately after purchase. For help, email [email protected] or call (423) 894-8028.

TVRM may substitute motive power (steam or diesel), equipment, or departure times due to operational or mechanical considerations. These adjustments ensure a safe and reliable experience and do not change the core Missionary Ridge Local experience, including live narration, the turntable demonstration, and restoration shop access.