COPPERHILL SPECIAL

Check-In Information

Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
The train departs promptly at 9:30 AM (Eastern Time) from:

9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing for the season
• Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
• A refillable water bottle
• A camera to capture scenic views and vintage railroad equipment

Accessibility & Requirements

• Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Guests with limited mobility are encouraged to contact our staff in advance so we can assist with boarding.
• This experience is suitable for all ages, but please note that accessibility may be limited due to the historic nature of our railcars.

Onboard Amenities

Enjoy your ride with optional snacks, drinks, and souvenirs available for purchase,
including Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum t-shirts, hats, and keepsakes.

Important Notes

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum makes every effort to operate on schedule. However,
delays may occur due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions or mechanical issues.
We appreciate your understanding and patience.

Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where does the Copperhill Special depart from?
The Copperhill Special departs from Delano, Tennessee — not Chattanooga.
Address: 9406 Highway 411, Delano, TN 37325
Free parking is available onsite.

⏱️ How long is the ride?
This is a full-day experience, lasting approximately 7.5–8 hours round trip, including a 90-minute layover.

🍴 Is lunch included?
No. Lunch is not included. Guests enjoy a 90-minute layover in Copperhill, TN and McCaysville, GA to dine at local restaurants or explore on their own.

🌄 What will we see during the ride?
Highlights include:

• The Hiwassee River Gorge
• Forested mountain landscapes
• Historic bridges and tunnels
• The famous Hiwassee Loop, where the train crosses over itself

👨‍👩‍👧 Is this ride good for children?
Yes, but it is best suited for older children and adults due to the full-day length. Younger children are welcome, but families should consider the duration when booking.

♿ What if I have mobility limitations?
Some seating options require climbing stairs.

• Dome and Observation seating are not recommended for guests with mobility or stair-climbing limitations.
• Due to the historic nature of the railcars, wheelchairs cannot be accommodated onboard.
  Guests who can self-board and use a standard seat are welcome.
  Questions before booking? Email [email protected].

🚻 Are restrooms available on the train?
Yes. Restrooms are available onboard, and guests are never more than one railcar away.

🌧️ Does the train operate in bad weather?
Yes. The Copperhill Special operates rain or shine, and all passenger cars are enclosed and climate-controlled.

🍿 Is food available onboard? Can I bring my own?
Light snacks and beverages are available for purchase onboard.
Guests may bring non-alcoholic beverages and light snacks.
Alcohol and large coolers are not permitted.

🎟️ Should I book tickets in advance?
Yes. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during fall foliage season when trips often sell out.

🔁 Why do passengers switch sides during the trip?
The train does not turn around. At the midpoint, guests are invited to switch sides so everyone enjoys both river-side and mountain-side views.

🚶 Can I move between railcars during the ride?
Yes. Guests may move between cars while the train is in motion. Please use caution and hold handrails.

🐕 Can I bring a pet?
Only trained service animals, as defined by the ADA, are permitted onboard.

🏛️ Why doesn’t this train board at the L&N Depot in Chattanooga?
The L&N Depot is located on an active freight mainline.
Copperhill Special trains operate on the historic “Old Line”, which departs from Delano.

👥 How can we split payment and still sit together?
Use the same Primary Name on each booking or request a split-payment link.
To link reservations, contact [email protected].

Cancellation & Trip Protection Policy

All ticket sales are final, and standard tickets are non-refundable.

For added flexibility, guests may purchase Trip Protection at the time of booking.

Trip Protection Details:

• Available for an additional 15% of the ticket price
• Allows cancellation up to 24 hours before departure
• Refund issued minus the Trip Protection fee
• Cancellations must be submitted in writing to [email protected]
  or via text to 423-894-8028

Important Notes:

• Trip Protection cannot be added after purchase
• Trip Protection is not available for bookings made less than 24 hours before departure
• No refunds are available without Trip Protection

This policy helps us operate historic equipment responsibly while offering guests optional peace of mind when planning ahead.

#drip-ef-364952533 {
font: .875rem/1.5rem sans-serif;
width: 100%;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 h3 {
font-size: 1.125rem;
margin: 0 0 .375rem;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 > div {
margin-bottom: .75rem;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 fieldset {
border: none;
margin: 0;
padding: 0;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 legend {
margin: 0;
padding: 0;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”email”],
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”number”],
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”tel”],
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”text”] {
margin: 0;
padding: .375rem .5625rem;
width: 100%;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”checkbox”],
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”radio”] {
margin: .1875rem .1875rem 0 0;
padding: 0;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”submit”] {
margin: 0;
padding: .5rem .875rem;
background-color: #800000; /* TVRM brand tone (deep maroon/red) */
color: #fff;
border: none;
border-radius: 4px;
cursor: pointer;
font-weight: 600;
}
#drip-ef-364952533 input[type=”submit”]:hover {
background-color: #a01818;
}