The Train Ride Through The Tennessee Countryside That Shows Off Fall Foliage
By Chris Dodge|Published October 09, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
Don’t you just love a good old train ride? The nostalgia, the views, the rhythm of an engine as it rolls down the track… what’s not to love about that? And in the height of fall foliage in Tennessee… there’s nothing better. If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy some leaf peeping this fall, hop on board and take a scenic train ride in Tennessee.
The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is the perfect place to take off on a grand iron horse adventure. Even if you have been on one of their rides before, the railroad offers lots of experiences, making a new adventure well within reach.
You can enjoy many different excursions along the tracks like the seasonal favorites of the Halloween Eerie Express or the very popular North Pole Limited Christmas Train. And when it comes time for the leaves to change, every one of their "normal" excursions transform into something spectacular.
The Copperhill Special is one of your best options when it comes to scenic seasonal train rides. In the morning, guests will head out through the countryside for an eight-hour journey that highlights the area's best assets: bridges, the famous loop around the mountain, and, of course plenty of fall colors.
Along the scenic route, you can get up and walk around on the train and even visit the snack bar where they offer various treats to munch on as you look at the leaves.
Eventually, you will arrive at Copperhill. There, you can walk across the border into Georgia and visit a small town called McCaysville. You will have a two-hour layover here, so you can exit the train and do a bit of exploring on foot. Take a trip to the Cuban Cafe for some delicious food for lunch -- save room for a piece of rum cake for dessert!
Hopping back on the train you will start your return trip, but this time, you'll sit on the opposite side. The train does not turn around, so switching sides allows everyone to take in the views from all directions.
When it comes to scenic train rides in Tennessee this is a great option for those looking for unique ways to enjoy the fall colors. I love getting a chance to see the leaves change and this experience is certainly a special way to make this autumn memorable. For more information please visit the Tennessee Valley Railroad website.
Looking for a place to stay the night? Check out this modern cabin near the train depot.
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