If You’re Afraid Of Heights, You Should Never Ride on this Historic Railway in Chattanooga

Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, Chattanooga

The steepest passenger railway in the world isn’t hiding in the Swiss Alps. it’s right here in Chattanooga, climbing straight up Lookout Mountain. This historic railway has been hauling people up at a wild 72.7% grade since 1895.

Yes, you could drive up the mountain, but where’s the fun in that when you can ride a trolley-style car that feels like it’s practically vertical?

The Current Railway is Actually the Second

The current Incline Railway, designed by John Crass, opened on November 16, 1895, and has been running ever since. The first one operated from 1887 to 1899 but couldn’t keep up with its newer, better-designed competitor.

This second version took a more direct route along the steepest part of the mountain while the original quickly went out of business. After 129 years of continuous operation, it ranks among the oldest working funicular railways in America.

Devastated by Fire… Twice.

The first fire happened a year after opening in December 1896, destroying the upper station and all its equipment. Then another fire broke out in March 1919, forcing the railway to close for two full years during rebuilding.

The silver lining? After the 1919 fire, they upgraded to bigger cars that could hold 32 passengers and added heaters under the seats for those chilly winter rides.

Made with Chattanooga Pride

Everything for the original Incline Railway came from right in Chattanooga. Local company Wheland Machine Works built the hoisting machinery, while another local business, Walsh & Wiedner, created the steam boilers and stacks.

Local foundry workers poured and shaped the specialized metal parts, and Chattanooga woodworkers crafted those original wooden carriages.

Brooklyn Bridge Connection

The steel cables that pull you up and down the mountain come from the same manufacturer that made the cables for the Brooklyn Bridge. The special wire-winding techniques developed for big suspension bridges turned out to be perfect for the extreme forces that funicular systems experience.

Presidential Passenger

There’s something special about knowing you’re experiencing the same journey that has attracted notable figures throughout its long history.

President Theodore Roosevelt rode these rails during his time in office, making quite a stir in the local community. Hollywood star Elizabeth Taylor did the same in the 1950s.

The railway keeps a guestbook at the upper station filled with signatures from politicians, celebrities, and visitors from around the world.

Engineering Recognition

Back in 1991, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers gave the Incline Railway a special honor by naming it a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark.

Engineers from all over study the railway’s unique counterbalance system that handles those extreme grade changes so efficiently.

The original calculations were all done by hand, yet achieved amazing precision that would impress even by today’s standards.

Look for the commemorative plaque at the upper station that marks this achievement.

Seasonal Transformations

In winter, you get clear views of Chattanooga as the leafless trees reveal panoramic scenes of the Appalachian Mountains.

Spring brings carpets of wildflowers and dogwood blossoms while Summer surrounds you with thick green trees that create beautiful patterns of light and shadow.

Fall might be the most spectacular time, when the journey takes you through a natural display of reds, oranges, and golds during the ten-minute trip.

Smart Design Feature

Along its 1,972-foot length, the grade changes several times to compensate for weight distribution as the cars move up and down the 1,450-foot elevation change.

Near the top, it reaches its steepest point at 72.7%, which is why you need to climb rather than walk when getting off at the upper station. This changing grade helps minimize power use and reduces strain on the mechanical systems.

Pay attention to the angle changes through the windows during your journey.

A Literal Turn in the Tracks

The original Incline Railway included a significant curve near the top, something rarely seen in funicular railways.

While the current railway follows a straighter path, you can see historical photographs of this engineering curiosity at the upper station.

Hiking enthusiasts can actually trace the path of the original angular route which naturally adapts to the curves of the mountain.

Otis Elevator Connection

The famous Otis Elevator Company engineered the original cable system for the Incline Railway in 1895, applying their vertical transportation expertise to this angled challenge.

Their engineers developed special brake systems that could immediately secure the cars if a cable ever failed. They also created innovative pulley arrangements to ensure smooth operation despite the varying angles of the track.

$4.6 Million Modern Upgrade

The railway received a major modernization in 2020 with a $4.6 million investment. This upgrade brought new cars with bigger windows, wheelchair accessibility, climate control for year-round comfort, better lighting, and security cameras.

The redesigned cars give you more headroom and legroom while keeping the historic look and feel that visitors have enjoyed for generations.

This balance of historic preservation with modern amenities ensures the railway can continue delighting visitors for many years to come.

Visitor Information Before Going

NOTE: Following a December 7, 2024 wildfire caused by a rockslide, the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is currently closed for restoration.

The target reopening date is June 2, 2025, contingent on repairs proceeding without delays. Check the official website before planning your visit.

Tickets: Daily operation from 10am-6pm (hours may vary seasonally). Round-trip tickets: $20 adults, $10 children (3-12), with trains departing every 20 minutes.

Locations: Lower Station (St. Elmo): 3917 St. Elmo Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37409. Upper Station: 827 East Brow Road, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350. Parking costs $3-$5 at the lower station with metered parking available at the top.