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    5. /Santa's Holiday Train Ride in Hiwassee River Gorge
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    Santa's Holiday Train Ride in Hiwassee River Gorge

    Celebrate the season with Santa, treats, and Hiwassee River Gorge views

    4.8 stars• 19.5K reviews

    Duration

    1 Hour (Approx.)

    Includes

    Train ride, treats, Santa visit

    Highlights

    Celebrate the holidays aboard a scenic train ride through the Hiwassee River Gorge. Write a letter to Santa, enjoy chocolate milk, and welcome Santa aboard for a visit and photo opportunity.

    • Ride through the Hiwassee River Gorge on a festive holiday train
    • Write a letter to Santa during the journey
    • Meet Santa aboard the train and take photos
    • Take home a keepsake boarding pass and holiday bell
    • Receive a commemorative ornament with select Holly Class seating

    Itinerary

    1. Arrive at 9406 Highway 411 in Delano at least 30 minutes before departure. Be prepared to wait outdoors during boarding.
    2. Board your assigned seat for an approximately one-hour round trip into the Hiwassee River Gorge.
    3. Enjoy a chocolate chip cookie and chocolate milk while children complete their letter-to-Santa activity.
    4. Welcome Santa for an onboard visit and photo opportunity.
    5. Return to the original Delano boarding location with your holiday bell and keepsake boarding pass.

    What's Included

    • Letter-to-Santa activity
    • Chocolate milk
    • Keepsake boarding pass
    • Holiday bell
    • Commemorative ornament with select Holly Class seating

    Important details

    • Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure and be prepared to wait outdoors during boarding
    • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
    • Strollers are not permitted aboard the train
    • Historic rail cars are not wheelchair-accessible
    • Holly Class has additional access limitations
    • Rideshare availability in Delano may be limited; arrange return transportation in advance

    Cancellation Policy

    All sales are final.

    Product ID: UNHUDC

    FAQs

    Infants under age 1 may ride on an adult’s lap. They do not receive a reserved seat, refreshments, a holiday bell, or other add-ons.

    Seats are assigned automatically. Select the same seat type and railcar for everyone in your party; different selections may result in separate seating.

    Yes. Restrooms are available aboard the train and are typically no more than one coach away.

    Meeting details

    Hiwassee River Rail Adventure Boarding Station, 9406 Hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325

    Experience provided by Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Class – Mistletoe

    $31.80

    Age 1+ • Priced per seat

    0

    Class – Dome (Algonquin, Holly)

    $47.70

    Age 1+ • Priced per seat

    0

    Class – Dome (Holly)

    $47.70

    Age 1+ • Priced per seat

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

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    • Concierge Support Included

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      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

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    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    19.5K reviews•Google Maps
    16,396
    1,897
    549
    204
    224

    This place clearly knows how to deliver a memorable train experience. Visitors consistently rave about the friendly, knowledgeable staff who make every ride special, whether it's the shorter local excursions or the longer Hiwassee Loop journey. The historians on board get particular praise for their engaging storytelling about the region's rail history, and touches like the banjo entertainment add extra charm. Several groups mention the dining options as a real highlight, with one reviewer specifically calling out their server Jermain for making their ladies' trip feel warm and welcoming. The vintage passenger cars themselves are beautifully restored and meticulously maintained, which adds to the authentic experience. People appreciate that this is a charitable organization dedicated to preserving local railroad heritage. One practical tip that comes up: book your tickets online in advance because these excursions sell out fast, and don't be late since the trains run on schedule. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a group outing, this seems to be one of those Chattanooga attractions that genuinely appeals across ages and interests. The overwhelming enthusiasm from repeat visitors suggests it's worth making time for if you're in the area.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 3
    5/5

    This was a nice train ride. About an 1 1/2. A little history given at the train yard that we went to.

    Photo of Antoinette Wiggs

    Antoinette Wiggs

    September 1, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    This was a nice train ride. About an 1 1/2. A little history given at the train yard that we went to.

    Photo of Antoinette Wiggs

    Antoinette Wiggs

    September 1, 2026

    Great for groups

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