Tale of Two Trains

Departing from the charming mountain town of Blue Ridge, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway takes passengers on a relaxing ride alongside the picturesque Toccoa River. This 26-mile round-trip journey lasts about four hours and includes a two-hour layover in McCaysville, which sits directly across from Copperhill.

During your stop, you can enjoy lunch, browse local shops, and even walk across the famous “Blue Line,” where you can literally stand in two states at once—one foot in Georgia and the other in Tennessee.

Passengers can choose from indoor climate-controlled cars, open-air railcars, or upgraded Premier Class seating. The experience is especially popular in the fall, when vibrant foliage transforms the landscape. In fact, this ride has been recognized by Southern Living as one of the top ways to experience fall color in the region.

Seasonal excursions add even more charm, including fall foliage rides, holiday-themed Santa trains, and special event departures throughout the year.

For a more immersive, continuous rail experience, the Hiwassee Loop offers one of the most scenic train rides in the Southeast. This 50-mile round-trip यात्रा through the Hiwassee River Gorge departs from Delano and lasts approximately 4.5 hours.

Unlike the Blue Ridge excursion, this journey has no layover, allowing guests to fully relax and take in the ever-changing scenery. The highlight of the trip is the famous Hiwassee Loop itself—an impressive engineering feat where the train spirals upward and crosses over its own track near Farner.

As the train winds through the gorge, you’ll be treated to sweeping river views, dense forests, historic bridges, and panoramic mountain backdrops. Comfortable vintage railcars and engaging onboard narration enhance the experience, making it a favorite for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a slower-paced adventure.

This historic route once served as part of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad line connecting Etowah to Marietta, adding a rich sense of history to the journey.

Which Train Will You Choose?

Both experiences offer something special:

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: Perfect for families and those who enjoy a mix of train travel and small-town exploration.
Hiwassee Loop: Ideal for travelers who want uninterrupted scenery and a deeper immersion into the natural landscape.

Whether you prefer strolling through a quaint mountain town or relaxing as dramatic scenery unfolds outside your window, these two rail adventures showcase the very best of the North Georgia and Tennessee mountains—one unforgettable mile at a time.