Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer
Back to Tennessee Valley Railroad News

RIDE THE RAILS AND RELIVE THE ADVENTURE: CHICKAMAUGA TURN AWAITS

 Did you know about this train ride in Chattanooga? This historic day trip goes from Chattanooga to North Georgia, and you can visit a lookout tower, dine on a train, and explore a mansion. You start at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Station, get your tickets and head to your seats. The train passes through a tunnel, crosses a scenic creek, and heads out of Chattanooga towards Georgia.

Our tickets came with lunch included, which was barbecue for my husband. And a chicken salad for me, and it was all so delicious. Our destination was Chick Maga, Georgia, and we had 90 minutes to explore this historical town. We got ice cream, walked around and explored a cute plant shop, gift store records, and toward the Gordon Lee mansion, which was built in 1847 and used in the Civil War.

After exploring town, you’ll board the train again and have another stop at the Chicka MAGA battlefield where you can walk to the top of the iconic Wilder Tower. This train ride is called the Chicka Maga Turn, and it’s running now through October. The ride lasts six hours and there’s several running options.

From coach to the dome parlor or observation seating, and even on a rainy day, we had a lot of fun. Comment the word train or ride and I’ll send you a link with more info.

A Rainy Day Rail Adventure That Didn’t Disappoint

Who says you need perfect weather to have a perfect day? Our ride on the Chickamauga Turn began on a rainy morning, but that didn’t dampen the magic. Boarding vintage railcars at the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, we settled into cozy seats and prepared for a 6-hour round trip into the heart of North Georgia.

From the moment the whistle blew, we were transported. As the train rolled through a tunnel and alongside scenic creeks, foggy hills came into view—creating a peaceful, almost cinematic landscape outside our windows.

Lunch Onboard: Options for Every Traveler

This excursion offers multiple ticket levels, and we opted for the Coach With Dining Car experience. That meant a full-service meal while watching the countryside drift by. I had a fresh chicken salad plate, and my husband chose the barbecue—both exceeded expectations. Coach and dome options also offer boxed lunches, and if you’re seated in the dome or parlor car, the views are elevated—literally and visually.

Destination: Chickamauga’s Southern Charm

When we arrived in Chickamauga, Georgia, the rain had eased up just enough to allow for a 90-minute self-guided exploration. The small town, full of Southern charm, was surprisingly vibrant for a gray day. We grabbed ice cream, visited a local plant boutique, and made our way to the Gordon-Lee Mansion—built in 1847 and used as a field hospital during the Civil War.

A Towering Finale: Wilder Tower

After our time in town, we reboarded the train for a final brief stop at the Chickamauga Battlefield. From there, we walked to Wilder Tower—a 85-foot stone structure built to honor Union Colonel John T. Wilder and his brigade. Even in the mist, the view from the top was worth the climb. It felt like the perfect closing chapter to a meaningful journey.

FAQs

  • Can I ride in a dome or parlor car on this train?
    • Yes! The Chickamauga Turn offers a variety of seating options. The dome and parlor cars offer luxury views and meals in the dining car.
  • Is this ride enjoyable in rainy weather?
    • Absolutely. The enclosed railcars keep you dry and comfortable, and the mist over the hills actually adds to the scenery.
  • Are there restrooms and accommodations for families?
    • Yes, all train cars include restrooms, and the ride is well-suited to families. Dining options are flexible for most preferences.

👩‍💻 About the Author – Hope Maum

Welcome, I’m Hope!

I’m a Chattanooga native passionate about hiking, road trips, and sharing the best adventures in and around the Scenic City. My husband and I own Experience Chattanooga, offering private guided hikes with photography and transportation included.

Beyond outdoor adventures, I help local tourism businesses grow through social media marketing—with over 20 viral videos in 2024 that helped small businesses thrive. I’m also a certified drone pilot and visual storyteller.

I hope this blog inspires you to explore Chattanooga and discover all the amazing things waiting just around the bend. 🚂✨

🔗 Book Your Trip

Visit tvrail.com/georgia to view the full ride schedule and reserve your seat.

Next Post