Lookout Mountain Incline Railway — Attraction in Chattanooga

Riding the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is an experience that’s both thrilling and full of history. If you’re in the Chattanooga area, this is one attraction you don’t want to miss.

The Ride: The ride itself is an adventure. As soon as you step onto the Incline, you can feel the history of this iconic railway. The cars are vintage yet well-maintained, giving you a sense of nostalgia while still feeling safe and secure. The steepness of the track is what makes it so exciting – it’s one of the world’s steepest passenger railways, and you definitely feel that as you ascend. The view out the window is stunning, especially as you get higher and higher up the mountain. Watching the landscape unfold below you is nothing short of breathtaking.

The Views: When you reach the top, you’re rewarded with some of the best views in the region. On a clear day, you can see for miles, taking in the sweeping panorama of Chattanooga, the Tennessee River, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a perfect spot for photos, and there’s something so peaceful about standing there, taking in the beauty of nature from such a high vantage point.

History and Charm: What I love most about the Incline Railway is its rich history. It’s been running for over a century, and you can feel the legacy in every aspect of the experience. The stations at both the top and bottom are charming, with lots of information about the railway’s past, including old photos and artifacts. It’s a fascinating look at how this railway has been a part of the community for so many years.

Facilities and Accessibility: The stations are clean and well-organized, and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. The ride is accessible for most people, though the steep incline might be a bit intense for those with a fear of heights. However, the cars are enclosed and the ride is smooth, so it’s suitable for most ages. There’s also a small gift shop with some unique souvenirs, which is a nice touch.

Value for Money: For the price, the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is a great value. It’s not just a quick ride up a mountain; it’s an experience that combines history, adventure, and incredible views. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s something you should definitely do at least once.

The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is more than just a mode of transportation – it’s a piece of history and a thrilling adventure all rolled into one. The views are unbeatable, the history is fascinating, and the ride itself is something you’ll remember long after it’s over. If you’re in the area, make sure to add this to your itinerary. You won’t be...

First off, DON'T BUY TICKETS ONLINE. It doesn't guarantee you a time slot. The only reason they want you to buy online is to double dip by harvesting your personal information. Buy at the gate. Lots of people fell for this and STILL had to wait for a later train. It's very unorganized.

I read the reviews here before we went and was warned of the crowds, long lines and summer heat. It's a real thing if you go during the summer, especially on a weekend like we did.

Honestly, you're much better off driving to the top. The train ride is way way too expensive for what it is. You will wait no less than 30 minutes going up and 30+ minutes back down. It's hot. Especially inside the train. They do at least acknowledge the heat issue by using fans and a large portable cooler and solar screens on the rooftop of the train, but it's just not enough.

Another thing to be aware of is, they do sell one way rides, so make sure you buy a two way ticket. Coming down can be frustrating waiting in line too. You have two trains running simultaneously. One going up while the other is going down. When you get in line to come down, you'll have a choice, line 1 or line 2. One train, the passengers enter and exit on line 1 (right side of line) and the other is line 2, the left side.

Pay attention to which train just left when leaving. If you choose the wrong line, you will have to wait an additional 15 to 20 minutes in the heat. There are no signs explaining this. Everyone in our line was confused too, until we saw the left train unload and load passengers, leaving our line behind until the other train (our line right side) arrived 15 or 20 minutes later. I'm probably not doing a good job explaining this. See my pictures and you'll see what I'm talking about.

Unfortunately, it was foggy at that elevation, but it did clear off when we came down and decided to drive up to the top. Save your $44 (2 people) and drive. It would probably be worth the ride in the fall, winter or spring.

And to the people complaining on here about run down houses you pass on the ride up, you do realize those houses you pass are from the 1860's and earlier. They are not run down, just historical. It's kind of amazing they are still in livable conditions all these...

Well, hmm...here goes... We prepaid for tickets and the person at the check-in was kind. We moved up an area to wait for boarding and a gentleman asked to take our picture. He had an extremely dry demeanor. We took it anyway and purchased them because the price was only $20.00. As we prepared to load the incline train, a young man said nothing as he took our tickets. He handed the stubs back(which we didn't pay attention to) and still said nothing. The stubs have coupons so look at them. We sat down and please be prepared for the heat depending when you ride the incline. Years ago the incline had more open air access. We did not have a voice over guide as mentioned in other reviews. The view going up and back down were wonderful. If you have a child/adult with sensory challenges, please do what you can to prepare them for the height, going up backwards which seems off, and the sound of breaks speaking when going down (it is necessary for speed balance). It is a quiet ride up depending on whose talking etc. We had a pleasant ride. The smell upon entering smelled like a cow pasture for whatever reason. Again, I am sharing in case someone has sensory challenges. The gift shop is nice and quaint. You can find some nice little gifts. The snack shop has good choices(basic choices). We went upstairs for a better view and the view was spectacular. Take quarters with you to use a device which allows you to have closer views in different directions. We walked towards the Civil War Battleground or something. We didn't realize there was a charge now. We waited for the next incline which runs every 20 mins. While waiting I noticed a gate with a chain on it and a piece that can't close completely. You will see it in my pictures. Please keep an eye on your little ones. There is enough space for a child to slip through and possibly fall down the steps on the other side. I went to lean on it just thinking it had a secure connection and didn't realize it was not so. Homes along the walkways are beautiful with beautiful flowers. The views were the best experience and that made it worth our time. I wish they had someone present to welcome you and give some insight to some things just to make it feel all...