I've never been on it. Daughter, son-in-law, and grandkids (8&3yoa) are spending several days with me near Lake Nottely over July 4. From what I know about the railroad, it is a relatively short trip to McCaysville, a rather lengthy layover there to eat or shop, and then a short return trip to Blue Ridge.

My question....would the young kids be impressed with the ride or will the layover/boredom kill the deal?

I've never ventured on the train,but I don't think an 8 year old would get bored with it(3 year old might get fussy).I'm not sure what the layover time is in McCaysville.They might enjoy the open railcars better.

I was just looking at their website and it stated that starting June 8th,all Sundays will be 1 1/2 hr. layover

Just long enough trip to keep the kids entertained. My kids have enjoyed it both times in the open cars and during the winter ride too. Its nice to sit in a cafe in copperhill and have lunch...do some window shopping. We take playing cards and stuff like that so if the kids get bored they can entertain themselves.

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A bad day off road is better than a good day at work.

We have ridden the train several times with children. They enjoy it in the open cars so that they can see everything. You can take a picnic lunch and eat at the park on the river in McCaysville. It is on the opposite side of the river from where the train comes in. Or if you don't want to take a picnic, stop in at the Conoco gas station right before the bridge and get a chicken strip box. Excellent strips with potatoe wedges and very economical!!!

Icecream will keep them kids happy for about 10 or 15 minutes.

Thanks, folks. I appreciate the responses.

Posted the same question on the Blairsville Forum and nobody bothered to answer.

I am moving up to Mineral Bluff with my 9 year old son on July 1st! We are definately taking one of these scenic train rides!!!

By the way....."3 year old might get fussy"

the three year old is a female....on her good days she is the most beautiful child you'd ever want to see....pretty as a picture and with a disposition to match.....however....

on her bad days I refuse to acknowledge she's related to me in any manner.

LOL!!! I know what you mean! Sometimes I don't even recognize my nine year old!!

My 4.5 year old grandson throughly enjoyed the ride - both ways. Definitely recommend the open air cars. The volunteer guides will tell you which side is the scenic one.

Enjoy!