Experience the Thrill of Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
Discover the breathtaking views and thrilling experience of the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, a historic attraction in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
A brief summary to Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
- 3917 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, St. Elmo Improvement League, Tennessee, 37409, US
- +1423-821-4224
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
The Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is a must-visit tourist attraction nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Chattanooga, Tennessee. This historic railway, known for being one of the steepest in the world, provides visitors with a thrilling ascent up Lookout Mountain, offering panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. As you ride the incline, you'll witness the stunning beauty of the Tennessee Valley and the charming city below, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The railway operates daily, with extended hours on weekends, ensuring ample opportunity for tourists to experience this unique journey. The ride itself lasts approximately 10 minutes, but the views will linger in your memory long after. At the top, you’ll find a variety of attractions, including hiking trails and scenic overlooks, perfect for those looking to explore further. The surrounding area is rich in history, and visitors can learn about the railway's fascinating past, as well as the significance of Lookout Mountain during the Civil War. Whether you're traveling with family, friends, or alone, the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway promises an adventure filled with natural beauty and historical significance. Plan your visit to witness this remarkable blend of engineering and nature, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the unforgettable views!
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Consider purchasing a round-trip ticket for a more immersive experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the trails at the top.
- Check the weather before your visit, as views can be obscured on cloudy days.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas from the top of Lookout Mountain.
Getting There
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Public Transit - Bus
From downtown Chattanooga, walk to the Chattanooga Choo Choo (1400 Market St, Chattanooga, TN 37402). Catch the CARTA bus route 1 (Blue Route) towards St. Elmo. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes. Get off at the stop near the intersection of St. Elmo Avenue and W 39th St. Walk 0.5 miles northwest on St. Elmo Avenue until you reach the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway at 3917 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409.
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Ride Share
Use a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. Open the app and enter your destination as 'Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, 3917 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409'. The ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bicycle from a local bike rental service in downtown Chattanooga. Start your ride by heading south on Market Street towards the riverfront. Continue onto Riverfront Parkway and follow the signs towards the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. The distance is about 3 miles, and you will enjoy scenic views along the way.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, you can walk to the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. From downtown Chattanooga, head south on Market St. Turn right onto W 39th St and continue walking until you reach St. Elmo Ave. Turn left and walk about 0.5 miles to reach the railway station at 3917 St Elmo Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37409.
Attractions Nearby to Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
- Guild-Hardy Trailhead, Lookout Mountain Trails
- John C. Wilson Memorial Park
- International Towing & Recovery Museum
- Cravens House
- Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
- Point Park
- Battles For Chattanooga Museum
- Lookout Mountain Battlefield Visitor Center
- Roper's Rock
- Colorblind Viewfinder: Ruby Falls-Lookout Mountain-Blue Heron Overlook
- Ruby Falls
- Lookout Mountain Civil War Battlefield
- Sunset Rock
- Glen Falls
- Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center
Landmarks nearby to Lookout Mountain Incline Railway
- St. Elmo Historic District
- Lookout Mountain
- Subterranean waterfall
- The University Of The South Historical Marker
- Songbirds
- The Historic
- Choo Choo Centennial Theatre
- Preserve Chattanooga
- Honest Charley Garage / Coker Museum
- Chattanooga Trolley Tour
- Dread Hollow
- New York Monument
- Chattanooga Tourism Co.
- Swing-A-Long Bridge
- Seven States