Copperhill Special: Full-Day Hiwassee Gorge Train Ride
Travel 94 miles round trip through the Hiwassee River Gorge aboard the Copperhill Special. This 8–9 hour excursion departs from Delano, Tennessee, crosses the famous Hiwassee Loop, and includes river and mountain views, onboard narration, and a 90-minute layover in the neighboring towns of Copperhill, Tennessee, and McCaysville, Georgia.
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Trip Highlights
The Hiwassee Loop, where the track climbs and crosses over itself
Scenic travel through the Hiwassee River Gorge
A relaxed, full-day journey aboard vintage passenger railcars
A 90-minute layover for lunch, shopping, galleries, or a walk across the Tennessee–Georgia state line
Standard Coach, Lounge, Crown, Dome, Observation, and historic premium seating on select departures
Schedule and Departure
Departure (Eastern Time) 9:30 AM
Return: Approximately 5:30 p.m.
Location: TVRM Delano Station, 9406 Highway 411, Delano, TN 37325—not the Chattanooga campus
- Arrival
- At least 30 minutes before departure
- Duration
- Approximately 8–9 hours
Ages: All ages; some premium seating has minimum-age requirements
Fares and Seating
Standard Coach fares start at $80 for adults and $50 for children. Fall Premium pricing applies on select September–November departures. Choose a date to confirm current pricing and available railcars.
Family 4-Pack: $220 for two adults and two children. Available on select non-fall departures only; not available during the Fall Premium season.
Premium seating may include complimentary snacks and beverages. Dome seating provides elevated panoramic views and requires stairs. Crown Class offers ground-level passenger seating without Dome or Observation stairs, although boarding assistance may still be needed.
Food and Accessibility
Lunch is not included. A box lunch may be available as a booking add-on, subject to availability; otherwise, guests may purchase lunch during the 90-minute layover. Light snacks and drinks are available onboard.
Because the historic railcars have limited accessibility, guests using mobility devices or needing boarding assistance should contact TVRM before booking so the team can recommend an appropriate railcar and discuss accommodations.
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Source: Visit Chattanooga
