Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Opens for 2005 Season

Visitors to Blue Ridge this month are in for a special treat! They'll have the first chance this year to climb aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for the opening of its eighth season on March 18.

The 26 mile round trip winds along the beautiful Toccoa River on vintage climate controlled or open air rail cars. The relaxing ride starts at the charming and historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge then takes passengers back in time..

The train stops for a layover in the sister towns of McCaysville, GA and Copperhill, TN where visitors will have plenty of time to take a stroll in the fresh mountain air, shop for unique crafts and antiques, snack on ice cream or eat lunch while overlooking the river.

"This is a relaxing, old-fashioned train ride along the Toccoa River, through the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia," Wilds Pierce, president of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, said. "The scenery is especially beautiful in March and April and the kids enjoy taking their first train ride during Spring Break.".

Visitors to Blue Ridge can kick off Spring Break on April 2nd during Cabin Fever Getaway Weekend where they can take a train ride at dusk to the Copperhill Basin and listen to live music, shop late, and taste authentic southern cuisine!.

Springtime ticket prices are $22 for adults, $18 for seniors (65+), and $11 for children ages 2-12. Children under 2 are free if they sit on a parent's lap. Special half price Monday coupons are available at www.brscenic.com. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway runs Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays at 11 am and Sundays at 1:30 pm starting March 18 and daily the week of Spring Break, April 2 - 10..

Special trips through the end of the year feature daily rides during the summer months as well as Fall Foliage and Santa Trains in October and December. Reservations are recommended..

Order tickets online at www.brscenic.com or call 1-800-934-1898..