Quick Details
Observation Car
Ages 13+
$ 50
Dome
All ages
$ 60
Hiwassee Powerhouse
Take a scenic 90-minute journey along the beautiful Hiwassee River and into the heart of the Cherokee National Forest. This leisurely round-trip ride follows the winding river gorge to the historic Apalachia Powerhouse, offering stunning views of forested hillsides, rocky bluffs, and sparkling waters along the way. A perfect introduction to the Hiwassee River Railroad, this short excursion combines relaxation with the natural beauty and history of the region before returning to the departure point.
This train is round trip and departs from 9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN at 10 AM and returns at 11:30 AM.
Available dates 2025: October 23rd, 29th, and 30th.
The Experience
This round-trip adventure travels along the Hiwassee River to the historic Apalachia Powerhouse before returning. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape, this ride showcases dramatic river views, towering cliffs, and lush forest landscapes. It’s a perspective you can’t experience from the road!
The line over which Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum trains operate was once part of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad’s Atlanta Division, stretching between Etowah, Tennessee, and Marietta, Georgia—making every mile a ride through history.
-
Passengers switch sides at our midway point from the mountain side to the river side and vise versa so everyone has an opportunity to experience all scenic views.
Dome (9410):
- All ages
- Priced per Seat
- The dome is on the second floor of the car and features a glass top ceiling.
- Dome seats around 18 individuals
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
- Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum offers a unique experience for visitors, with a Copperhill Special Train that features dome seating for the best view of the scenery.
Dome (Algonquin Park):
- Ages 13+
- Priced per Seat
- The dome is on the second floor of the car and features a glass top ceiling.
- Dome seats around 18 individuals
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
- Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is offering a special opportunity to experience the 360 degree views of the upper level dome. This is a great chance to see the beautiful scenery of the area.
Observation:
- Ages 13+
- Priced per Seat
- The observation seating is on the ground floor and features a round end with windows.
- Observation seats 12
- Not recommended for individuals with mobility/walking issues
- Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.
The observation car is a type of passenger coach, often found at the rear and thus with windows for viewing. This form was nearly universally removed from service on American railroads beginning in 1950’s but some still exist today!
Coach:
- All ages
- Priced per Seat
Crown Class:
- This is the ground level seating area in car 9410.
- Your ticket includes complimentary snacks and refreshments onboard.
-
This train departs from Delano (9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325) and NOT from Chattanooga. Departure from Delano is 10 AM., return is approximately 11:30 AM
The Hiwassee Loop departure location is between 1 – 2 hours from Chattanooga, and it’s well worth the drive. Please give yourself enough time before our departure. It is the perfect place to spend a day if you’re looking for something fun and unique to do. The local police are on the lookout for speeders, so be sure to stay under their posted speed limits if you want to avoid getting a ticket.
-
1. Can I Reserve Tickets in Advance?
Yes! We recommend purchasing tickets online in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Hiwassee River Railroad trips often sell out, especially during peak seasons.
A limited number of tickets may be available at the Etowah Depot before departure if not sold out in advance.
Check availability online and book early to guarantee your seats.2. Where Do I Park?
Please park in the designated event parking area at:
9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325
3. Can I Bring Food and Beverages on the Train?
Yes, passengers are welcome to bring light snacks and beverages to enjoy on board.
Please help us keep the train clean by using the trash receptacles provided.
Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on TVRM property or trains.4. Are There Restroom Facilities on the Train?
Yes. Restroom facilities are available on board and are never more than one coach away from your seat.
5. Is the Train Air-Conditioned or Heated?
Yes. All coaches are climate-controlled for your comfort and are both air-conditioned and heated as needed throughout the year.
6. What if I Have Trouble Climbing Stairs?
If you have difficulty climbing stairs or require special assistance, please contact us in advance at
[email protected] before purchasing tickets.
Dome seating is not recommended for guests with mobility limitations, as access requires climbing a narrow staircase.Our historic railcars were built before the implementation of modern accessibility standards and are not designed to safely accommodate wheelchairs.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recognizes these limitations and exempts historic rail equipment from accessibility requirements.
However, all guests who can board the train and occupy a standard seat are welcome and encouraged to ride.7. Does the Train Run if it’s Raining?
Yes! The Hiwassee Powerhouse excursion operates rain or shine.
All coaches are enclosed and protected from the elements, ensuring a comfortable ride regardless of the weather.8. Why Are Passengers Requested to Swap Seats at the Midway Point?
Because the train does not turn around at the Apalachia Powerhouse, passengers are asked to switch sides for the return trip.
This allows everyone the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful river and gorge views from both sides of the train.9. Can We Move Around on the Train?
Yes, passengers may move about the train during the trip.
Please use caution when walking between cars, especially while the train is in motion. -
Special educational rates are available for the Hiwassee Loop excursion. Click here to learn more.
-
Hiwassee Powerhouse
Be the first to know our news and events!
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
What a wonderful experience. We wanted to see the changing of the leaves and we were not disappointed. The scenery was like traveling through a Monet painting. The train trip was quite an adventure. We spotted a bald eagle that flew along beside the train for a short distance. The commentator was excellent. We heard all the history about the area and the building of the train tracks. Most of us brought picnic lunches since the trip was 5 1/2 hours long, round trip, non stop. The commissary car did sell limited food items and souvenirs. We had some musical entertainment about half way through the trip which was fun. I recommend this trip regardless of the time of year. The train company offers a variety of excursions with different themes, times and travel lengths. Put this one on your Bucket List for sure.
– TripAdvisor
Peaceful ride on a dreary day through the beautiful scenery along the Hiwassee River Gorge. Choose to upgrade for dome view (1st class), very nice with complimentary snacks and beverages along the way. Our car hostess, LouAnne, was very cordial and gave some history behind the trains. Narration along the way was both informative and light hearted. 2 hour layover in McCaysville, GA allowed time for lunch and some shopping.
– TripAdvisor