Blue Ridge Scenic Railway | Atlanta

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a premier tourist attraction in Blue Ridge, Georgia, offering visitors an immersive journey through the stunning landscapes of the Appalachian foothills along the Toccoa River. This heritage railway provides a nostalgic and relaxing experience that combines natural beauty, history, and small-town charm. It operates from the historic Blue Ridge Depot in downtown Blue Ridge, serving as a gateway to the twin towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee.

Route and Experience

The railway follows a 26-mile stretch of track originally part of the Marietta and North Georgia Railroad. The scenic journey travels northward along the Toccoa River, winding through lush forests, river valleys, and mountain views that change dramatically with the seasons—from vibrant wildflowers in spring to the spectacular fall foliage in autumn.

There are two main types of excursions offered:

2-Hour Express Tour: This is a shorter, round-trip ride from Blue Ridge along the river, showcasing breathtaking scenery and tranquil views. This option is ideal for visitors who want a concise yet beautiful rail experience.

4-Hour Extended Tour: This longer journey includes a two-hour stopover in the twin towns of McCaysville and Copperhill, which sit directly on the Georgia-Tennessee state line. Passengers can disembark to explore these quaint towns, shop at local boutiques, dine in cafes, and enjoy the novelty of standing with one foot in Georgia and the other in Tennessee before returning to Blue Ridge.

Throughout the ride, knowledgeable onboard hosts share interesting historical facts about the railway, the surrounding area, and local wildlife, enriching the passenger experience with storytelling and context.

Train Cars and Comfort

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a variety of coach options to accommodate different preferences and comfort levels:

Open-Air Coaches: These cars have bench-style seating arranged facing outward, giving passengers unobstructed views and a feeling of closeness to the outdoors. During cooler months, vinyl windows are installed to provide protection from the elements while still allowing visibility.

Closed Coaches: Enclosed and climate-controlled cars with padded seats grouped in fours provide a comfortable environment protected from weather, perfect for colder or rainy days.

Premier Car: Designed for an upscale experience, the premier car is limited to passengers 18 years and older. It features reclining seats, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, catered snacks, a complimentary group photo, and a branded canvas tote bag. This car offers a quieter, more luxurious atmosphere.

Handicap Accessible Coach: This special car accommodates passengers with mobility challenges and features stair and lift access as well as an accessible restroom on board. Reservations for this car are made through direct contact with the ticket office.

Schedule and Seasonal Operations

The railway typically runs from late March through the last weekend in December, operating Fridays through Mondays with additional daily runs during busy periods such as spring break and summer vacation.

Special seasonal and themed rides enhance the experience throughout the year:

Fall Foliage Tours: Running from mid-September to early November, these rides highlight the stunning autumn colors of the Appalachian Mountains, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Holiday Express: Operating from Thanksgiving through December, this festive ride features holiday music, storytelling, and a visit from Santa Claus, creating a magical atmosphere for families and children.

Firecracker Special: Held annually on July 5, this event includes a two-hour layover during which passengers can enjoy the Independence Day fireworks displays in the twin towns.

Additional unique offerings sometimes include rail bike experiences—where visitors pedal on specially designed rail bikes along a track section—private caboose rentals, and even locomotive cab rides that provide behind-the-scenes access to the train’s operation.

Ticketing and Reservations

Ticket prices vary depending on the length of the trip, the season, and the class of service chosen. For example, adult tickets for the 2-hour express ride generally range from approximately $43 to $60, while the 4-hour tour costs about $55 to $75 for standard coach seating, and $100 to $120 for the premier car. Children between 2 and 12 years receive discounted rates, and infants under 2 years old ride free on a lap. Discounts for seniors, military personnel, first responders, and educators are also available.

Due to the railway’s popularity—especially during peak fall colors and holiday seasons—reservations are strongly recommended and can be made online through the railway’s official website or by phone.

Exploring the Twin Towns: McCaysville and Copperhill

During the extended tour, the two-hour layover in McCaysville and Copperhill offers a charming opportunity to explore two small, historic towns separated only by the state border but closely linked by culture and community.

Visitors can wander along Toccoa-Ocoee Street, a lively thoroughfare lined with antique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. The unique feature of these twin towns is the literal dividing line between Georgia and Tennessee running down the middle of the street, allowing visitors to step across state lines on foot.

This break in the journey adds cultural interest, local flavor, and a chance for passengers to stretch their legs, enjoy a meal or coffee, and shop for souvenirs before boarding the train for the return trip.

Departure and Boarding Information

Passengers board the train at the Blue Ridge Depot, located at 241 Depot Street in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia. It is advised to arrive at least 45 minutes before departure to allow time for parking, ticket pickup, and boarding procedures. The train departs promptly on schedule, and late arrivals may be denied boarding for safety and timing reasons.

Summary

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is much more than a simple train ride—it is a carefully curated experience that connects passengers with the breathtaking natural beauty of North Georgia’s mountains and rivers, the historic charm of a bygone rail era, and the inviting warmth of small-town communities. It offers something for everyone: families, couples, solo travelers, and groups seeking scenic adventure, relaxation, or a unique way to explore the Appalachian region. With its variety of ride options, seasonal events, and welcoming atmosphere, the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway remains a beloved highlight for visitors to the area.