Blue Ridge Scenic Railway facts for kids
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a special train ride in northern Georgia. It's called a heritage railroad because it uses old train tracks and classic trains to give people a fun trip back in time.
Based in Blue Ridge, Georgia, United States, this railway follows a historic path. It travels along the beautiful Toccoa River northwards. The journey ends in two "twin cities": McCaysville, Georgia in Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee just across the state line.
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All Aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway!
What is a Heritage Railway?
A heritage railway is like a living museum on wheels! It's a railway that runs old train lines, often using vintage trains. These railways help keep history alive by showing how people used to travel. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway uses tracks that were once part of the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad. This line has been used for trains since 1998.
Where Does the Train Go?
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway starts its journey in the charming town of Blue Ridge, Georgia. From there, the train chugs along the scenic Toccoa River. You'll see beautiful views of the river and the surrounding nature. The trip goes north to two towns that are right next to each other. These are McCaysville, Georgia in Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee in Tennessee. These two towns are often called "twin cities" because they are so close.
Who Operates the Railway?
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is part of a larger company called the Georgia Northeastern Railroad. This company also runs freight trains on the same tracks. Freight trains carry goods and materials, while the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway carries passengers for fun trips. Being a subsidiary means the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is owned and controlled by the Georgia Northeastern Railroad.
When Can You Ride the Train?
The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway runs trains for most of the year. You can usually ride from late March until the last weekend in December.
- Spring and Fall: Trains typically run from Friday to Monday.
- Spring Break: During the first full week of April, trains run daily, except on Wednesdays.
- Summer Fun: From mid-June to the end of July, you can ride the train every day except Wednesdays.
- October to Thanksgiving: This is a popular time for fall colors, and trains run regularly.
- Christmas Season: Special Christmas trains run during Thanksgiving weekend. They also run on weekends after Thanksgiving and for the full week before Christmas Day.
- Year-End Rides: Normal trips start again for the final week of the year, right before New Year's.
