Ride Steam Star #630 on the Missionary Ridge Local

There’s something unforgettable about stepping aboard a train pulled by a steam locomotive. The hiss of steam, the chuff of the cylinders, the whistle echoing across Chattanooga—it all comes together to create an experience that feels alive. At the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM), you can still ride behind Steam Star #630, a Southern Railway steam engine built in 1904.

This isn’t just any train ride—it’s your chance to experience one of the last working locomotives of its kind before she heads into federally mandated boiler recertification.

👉 Don’t miss out: Book your Missionary Ridge Local ride today.

A Traveler’s Favorite: The Missionary Ridge Local

The Missionary Ridge Local is TVRM’s signature short ride, lasting about an hour and fifteen minutes. It’s perfect for families, day-trippers, and anyone curious about trains.

Highlights include:

• A ride through the pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel.

• A turntable demonstration at East Chattanooga.

• A behind-the-scenes look inside TVRM’s restoration shop.

When #630 is on the point, the ride feels even more special. Few attractions allow you to sit behind a 121-year-old steam locomotive and feel its raw power up close.

Steam Star #630: A Living Legend

Built in 1904 by the American Locomotive Company (ALCO), #630 was part of the Class Ks-1 Consolidation locomotives with a 2-8-0 wheel arrangement. Early in her career, she lacked modern features like superheaters. By 1917, she was rebuilt with Southern Valve Gear, piston valves, and superheaters, upgrades that boosted her performance.

Key Specs:

• Builder: ALCO, No. 28446

• Wheel Arrangement: 2-8-0 Consolidation

• Weight: 214,000 lbs

• Boiler Pressure: 190 psi

• Cylinders: 24 in x 30 in

• Tractive Effort: 46,700 lbs

• Fuel: Coal

She served Southern Railway for nearly five decades, working primarily in North Carolina and Tennessee until her retirement in 1952. Later, she joined the East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad as No. 207 before returning to Southern for its famous Steam Excursion Program.

By 1967, she was running excursion trips across the South. In 1978, TVRM became her caretaker, and after a decade-long restoration beginning in 2001, #630 triumphantly steamed back in 2011.

Today, she is proudly operational again, pulling the Missionary Ridge Local.

Why Now Is the Time

Every 15 years, steam locomotives must undergo boiler recertification. For #630, that time is near. Once she enters the shop, it may be several years before riders hear her whistle again.

That makes 2025 a golden opportunity. Whether you’re a lifelong railfan or a family looking for a memorable weekend outing, this season is your chance to say you rode behind Steam Star #630 before her next big chapter.

👉 Secure your seat now: Reserve your Missionary Ridge Local tickets.

FAQs

Q: How can I ensure I ride behind #630 specifically?

A: Check TVRM’s website and calendar. While #630 often leads the Missionary Ridge Local, availability depends on scheduling.

Q: Will #630 return after her recertification?

A: Yes, but the timeline depends on inspection results and restoration needs. It could take several years.