FEEL THE STEAM, SAVOR THE SUNSET: YOUR PERFECT TVRM WEEKEND RAIL ITINERARY
Feel the Steam, Savor the Sunset: Your Perfect TVRM Weekend Rail Itinerary
|
Train |
Departure |
Experience Length |
Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Steam Star #4501 – Summerville Steam Special |
9:30 AM |
9 hrs |
Day-trippers & rail enthusiasts |
|
Steam Engine #630 – Missionary Ridge Local |
9:30, 11:00, 12:30, 2:00, 3:30 |
55 min |
Families & first-time riders |
|
6:00 & 7:30 PM |
75 min |
Sunset seekers & romantics |
|
|
11:00 AM |
2 hrs 30 min |
Bridal parties & costume lovers |
|
|
Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad (Delano, TN) |
Sat. 9:30 AM, Sun – 1:30 PM |
8 hrs / 4 hrs |
Mountain-view collectors |
Morning: Steam Across Two States
Kick off at Grand Junction Depot with fresh coffee and an up-close look at Steam Star #4501 on Summerville Steam Special. As the firebox roars to life, the scent of hot coal signals you’re leaving the 21st century. Settling into a coach, watch Missionary Ridge recede while North Georgia hills unfold. With onboard docents sharing locomotive lore, you’ll arrive in Summerville just in time for a town-square lunch.
Mid-Day Excursion
Back in Chattanooga, hop on Steam Engine #630 for the Missionary Ridge Local. In under an hour you’ll cross four bridges, pass through a pre-Civil War tunnel, and tour TVRM’s restoration shop—proof that preservation is very much in motion.
A Toast to Love & Lace: “Wear It Again” Tea
At 11 AM, Grand Junction Depot transforms into a bridal catwalk. Slip on your gown, tux, or zany prom suit for a proper afternoon tea paired with petit fours. Afterward, board a vintage coach for a gentle loop—ideal for photo-ops you missed the first time you wore that outfit.
Golden-Hour Glory on the Evening Ridge Runner
As daylight softens, board the 6:00 and 7:30 PM Evening Ridge Runner. Looking for a charming way to end your day? Climb aboard the Evening Ridge Runner for a peaceful sunset ride through the valley.
Epic Finale in Delano
Sunday morning, drive an hour north to Delano for the Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad. Riders spiral up Bald Mountain Loop then glide along the river, snapping bald-eagle photos.
Reader FAQs
-
“Do rides run rain or shine?”
Yes; enclosed coaches and wipers keep you comfortable. Extreme weather updates post to TVRM’s Facebook.
-
“Are pets allowed?”
Only registered service animals per ADA guidelines.
-
“Can I ride multiple trains in one day?”
Absolutely—#630’s 90 mins departures make it easy to stack with evening ridge runner or the Tea.
Ticket Quick-Reference
-
Summerville Steam Special: From $110 coach | Adds lunch +$15
-
Missionary Ridge Local: $24 adult / $15 child
-
Evening Ridge Runner: $32 adult / $18 child
-
Wedding Tea + Ride: $60 (includes tea service)
-
Hiwassee Loop: $48 adult / $28 child
Packing & Prep
-
Sunscreen & hat for open vestibules
-
Camera with fast shutter for smoke-plume shots