by Karen Sherrill
posted May 29, 2007
Since the late 19th Century, passengers and train crews have traveled along some of the most beautiful river gorges in the U.S. aboard railroad tracks that hug the Hiwassee River as the line climbs from Reliance toward Farner, Tn. With the end of passenger service in the 1960's and freight service in 2001, it was thought that the line would remain abandoned for good. Now, Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum excursion trains will again take to the rails of the Hiwassee River Gorge for an adventure passengers will call amazing.
The Hiwassee River Rail Ride enthralls travelers as it traverses across the "Eye" of the legendary "Hook and Eye" rail line. Known as the Great Hiwassee, or Bald Mountain Loop, the train will pass 62 feet over the tracks on which they have already passed.
Some lucky passengers will take advantage of the limited number of excursions that travel over the entire TOHA owned rail line to Copperhill.
New for 2007 are two "through" trains, operated in partnership with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway that will continue beyond Copperhill to Blue Ridge, Ga., traversing the entire remaining passenger portion of the old "Hook and Eye". These trains will operate only one way. Groups, or individuals, can provide their own transportation or a comfortable motor coach return will be available for a small additional charge.
Each train features comfortable coach seating with large windows for viewing the passing scenery. The vintage, climate-controlled coaches are pulled by historic diesel locomotives from the 1950's and early 1960's.
Advance ticket reservations and purchases are recommended as many dates will sell out early. Purchase tickets by calling 423-894-8028 or by visiting the museum's website at tvrail.com. Walk up purchases of any remaining tickets will be available at the bus boarding location beginning 30 minutes prior to the first departure of the day. Trains run from Etowah, Tn.
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