This Scenic Train Ride Is One of the Best Ways to See Fall Foliage in the U.S. South-With Open-air Cars and Riverwalks in Charming Small Towns

"Departing from its 1905 depot like a moving postcard, the train follows the Toccoa River, passing sycamores and sourwoods, rolling hills, and farms along the way. It's leaf-peeping without the hairpin turns or crowded parking lots, just windows down and the car doors open wide, a thermos of cider, and the steady click of the rails. The classic trip is a 26-mile, four-hour round-trip from downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, to the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee."

"The journey is comfortable, with reserved seats, onboard restrooms, and no worries about parking or crowded overlooks. For the best views and unobstructed photos, reserve a seat in an open-air car. Just remember to layer up because the river gorge usually feels cooler than town. During the layover in McCaysville and Copperhill, you can explore the Riverwalk Shops or walk to the bridge for sweeping river views framed by maples."

"What makes this ride so special isn't just the fall colors; it's also the pace. Riding the rails gives you time to slow down and look at the canopy's changing hues, from chartreuse to crimson. Peak fall color in the lower Blue Ridge Mountains is expected from Oct. 30 to Nov, 6 in 2025. If you want to pick the best day, Nov. 2 is a safe choice, with some flexibility to move a few days earlier or later depending on the weather."

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway runs a classic 26-mile, four-hour round-trip from downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, to McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. The train follows the Toccoa River past sycamores, sourwoods, rolling hills, and farms, offering a relaxed pace ideal for leaf-watching. Trips include a two-hour layover for riverwalks, shops, and the "stand in two states" line, plus a two-hour Express option along the same riverside route. Reserved seating, onboard restrooms, and nearby depot amenities eliminate parking hassles. Open-air cars provide the best unobstructed photos, and layers are recommended because the river gorge is cooler. Peak color is expected Oct. 30–Nov. 6, 2025, with Nov. 2 a reliable date.

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