Tennessee
Trains, Cherokee and Culture in the Southern Appalachian Mountains
Program No. 2126760MEADV-1116-60
Ride historic rails across scenic mountains as you learn about Appalachian culture, Cherokee heritage, traditional music and regional cuisine.
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800-454-5768
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6 days
5 nights
11 meals
5B 2L 4D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Chattanooga, TN
2
Chattanooga History, Chickamauga, Choo Choo
Chattanooga, TN
3
Cherokee Trail of Tears, Rock City & Ruby Falls
Chattanooga, TN
5
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Train Ride
Hiawassee, GA
6
Program Concludes, Return To Chattanooga
Hiawassee, GA
At a Glance
Capture scenic views and learn about Appalachian culture aboard two trains in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Hear stories from the area’s long history and enjoy a delightful encounter with Great Smokies heritage as presented by a musician performing tunes of Southern Appalachia. Learn about Cherokee Indian life in the “enchanted land” centuries ago during evening lectures and a special visit from an expert on Cherokee history and song.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Some walking and standing on field trips. Diesel engine train and coach transfers.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Ride the original railroad line in Chattanooga, across four bridges and through the pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel.
- Tap your toes to the music of the Cherokee and to performances of Southern Appalachian music.
- Travel by train along the Toccoa River through the North Georgia countryside to two quaint sister towns nestled deep in the mountains of Georgia and Tennessee.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Jim Ogden
Jim Ogden is a historian who became interested in the Civil War the summer between 4th and 5th grade. His interests in that period of history have continued to grow and broaden. He started his career at The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park in 1982. He then had stints at Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Ala. and Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park in Fredericksburg, Va. He returned to Chickamauga and Chattanooga in 1988. He was born and raised in Southern Maryland.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Lee Knight
View biography
Raised in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, Lee is a folk singer, story teller and outdoor leader, performing at concerts, workshops, festivals and schools. He shares his knowledge of the natural world leading hikes, canoe trips and guiding whitewater rafts. Lee has collected and shares Cherokee legends and plays the Cherokee flute and rattle, as well as the Native American drum. He also plays the five-string banjo, guitars and the Appalachian dulcimer.
Justin Strickland
View biography
Justin Strickland has been fascinated by trains his entire life. His first "railroad" job was with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway at the age of 15, where he eventually became a conductor. Justin has also worked with the Southeastern Railway Museum, Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. He authored the only book dedicated to the Terminal Station in Chattanooga and has been interviewed for the railroad documentary "Tracing the Tracks."
Maury Nicely
View biography
Maury Nicely is a lawyer and historian in Chattanooga, Tenn., and author of the “Chattanooga Walking Tour & Historic Guide” and the “East Tennessee Walking Tour & Historic Guide.” Maury has served on the boards of Chattanooga History Center and Cornerstones, Inc., Chattanooga's historic preservation organization.
Carol Burton
View biography
Carol Burton attended Dalton State College, where she began her 16 years as a Road Scholar coordinator with its Center for Educational Adventure. Married to her childhood sweetheart, she grew up in Hampton, Va., and moved to Georgia in 1970. Carol said she was born with a love for animals and volunteers with her local humane society.
Jim Ogden
View biography
Jim Ogden is a historian who became interested in the Civil War the summer between 4th and 5th grade. His interests in that period of history have continued to grow and broaden. He started his career at The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park in 1982. He then had stints at Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Ala. and Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park in Fredericksburg, Va. He returned to Chickamauga and Chattanooga in 1988. He was born and raised in Southern Maryland.
Suggested Reading List
(7 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Trains, Cherokee and Culture in the Southern Appalachian Mountains
Program Number: 21267
Cherokee History and Culture
An introduction to the locale, history, way of life, and culture of the Cherokee Indians.
African Americans of Chattanooga: A History of Unsung Heroes (Brief History)
Beginning in 1541 with Hernando De Soto's Spanish expedition for gold, African Americans have held a prominent place in Chattanooga's history. Author Rita Lorraine Hubbard chronicles the ways African Americans have shaped Chattanooga, and presents inspirational achievements that have gone largely unheralded over the years. Did you know that Chattanooga is:
• the hometown of the first African American appointed to lead counsel on a Supreme Court case
• the home of the nation's oldest student, who learned to read at age 116
• the home of the African American blacksmith who put shackles on the "Andrew's Raiders" after the Great Locomotive Chase
• the site of one of the first integrated police departments in the South… and so much more!
Chattanooga's Terminal Station (TN)
Long before Glenn Miller made the world-famous "Chattanooga Choo Choo" an American icon, Chattanooga was already a bustling railroad community. By the beginning of the 20th century, passenger trains overwhelmed Chattanooga's two railroad depots and a larger station was needed. The solution was Terminal Station, which rivaled most Southern depots in size, expense, and aesthetic beauty. Providing transportation to cities throughout the country, the terminal made its mark as the gateway for rail from the agricultural south to the industrial north. Following its closure, the terminal was reopened as a renowned hotel and entertainment complex in 1973, becoming one of Chattanooga's many exciting attractions. Images of Rail: Chattanooga's Terminal Station follows the history of this depot in both stories and photographs.
Hidden History of Chattanooga
The enigmatic hills and woodlands of the Chattanooga area are a sanctuary of history, and the hometown of author Alexandra Walker Clark. Clark has chronicled the history of her hometown for the Chattanooga Times and the Chattanooga History Journal, and in this collection she combines some of her favorite stories to take readers behind the scenes for a fascinating look into the unique history and culture of the region. Absorb the city's rich ethnic diversity, travel down to the hallowed battlefields of Chickamauga and Fort Oglethorpe and grasp the compelling legacy of the Cherokee. This and so much more lies ahead in Hidden History of Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Landmarks (TN): Exploring the History of the Scenic City (The History Press) [Paperback]
Chattanooga's history and heritage are embodied in the historical sites, structures and groundbreaking feats of engineering that have defined the city from its beginning. Many of the Scenic City's most important landmarks are still preserved. Yet with so many fascinating historic sites and storied destinations, seeing them all is no easy task. Fortunately, Chattanooga Landmarks offers a helpful survey of the most historically significant sites in the city and the surrounding area. Join Chattanooga local Jennifer Crutchfield as she guides you through the city's historic wonders, both natural and man-made. From the top of Lookout Mountain down to the banks of the Tennessee River and through downtown, Chattanooga Landmarks covers the breadth of the historic sites that make this Tennessee city a landmark all its own.
The United States of Appalachia: How Southern Mountaineers Brought Independence, Culture, and Enlightenment to America
Few places in the United States confound and fascinate Americans like Appalachia, yet no other area has been so markedly mischaracterized by the mass media. Stereotypes of hillbillies and rednecks repeatedly appear in representations of the region, but few, if any, of its many heroes, visionaries, or innovators are ever referenced.
Make no mistake, they are legion: from Anne Royall, America's first female muckraker, to Sequoyah, a Cherokee mountaineer who invented the first syllabary in modern times, and international divas Nina Simone and Bessie Smith, as well as writers Cormac McCarthy, Edward Abbey, and Nobel Laureate Pearl S. Buck, Appalachia has contributed mightily to American culture — and politics. Not only did eastern Tennessee boast the country's first antislavery newspaper, Appalachians also established the first District of Washington as a bold counterpoint to British rule. With humor, intelligence, and clarity, Jeff Biggers reminds us how Appalachians have defined and shaped the United States we know today.
The Cherokee Nation and the Trail of Tears
In the early nineteenth century, the U.S. government shifted its policy from trying to assimilate American Indians to relocating them, and proceeded to forcibly drive seventeen thousand Cherokees from their homelands. This journey of exile became known as the Trail of Tears.
Historians Perdue and Green reveal the government?s betrayals and the divisions within the Cherokee Nation, follow the exiles along the Trail of Tears, and chronicle the hardships found in the West. In its trauma and tragedy, the Cherokee diaspora has come to represent the irreparable injustice done to Native Americans in the name of nation building?and in their determined survival, it represents the resilience of the Native American spirit.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Chattanooga, TN
Program Concludes
Hiawassee, GA
Meals
11
| 5B |
2L |
4D |
Activity Level
Capture scenic views and learn about Appalachian culture aboard two trains in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Hear stories from the area’s long history and enjoy a delightful encounter with Great Smokies heritage as presented by a musician performing tunes of Southern Appalachia. Learn about Cherokee Indian life in the “enchanted land” centuries ago during evening lectures and a special visit from an expert on Cherokee history and song.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Ride the original railroad line in Chattanooga, across four bridges and through the pre-Civil War Missionary Ridge Tunnel.
- Tap your toes to the music of the Cherokee and to performances of Southern Appalachian music.
- Travel by train along the Toccoa River through the North Georgia countryside to two quaint sister towns nestled deep in the mountains of Georgia and Tennessee.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
Jim Ogden
Jim Ogden is a historian who became interested in the Civil War the summer between 4th and 5th grade. His interests in that period of history have continued to grow and broaden. He started his career at The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park in 1982. He then had stints at Russell Cave National Monument in Bridgeport, Ala. and Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park in Fredericksburg, Va. He returned to Chickamauga and Chattanooga in 1988. He was born and raised in Southern Maryland.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Lee Knight
Raised in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York, Lee is a folk singer, story teller and outdoor leader, performing at concerts, workshops, festivals and schools. He shares his knowledge of the natural world leading hikes, canoe trips and guiding whitewater rafts. Lee has collected and shares Cherokee legends and plays the Cherokee flute and rattle, as well as the Native American drum. He also plays the five-string banjo, guitars and the Appalachian dulcimer.
Justin Strickland
Justin Strickland has been fascinated by trains his entire life. His first "railroad" job was with the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway at the age of 15, where he eventually became a conductor. Justin has also worked with the Southeastern Railway Museum, Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum. He authored the only book dedicated to the Terminal Station in Chattanooga and has been interviewed for the railroad documentary "Tracing the Tracks."
Maury Nicely
Maury Nicely is a lawyer and historian in Chattanooga, Tenn., and author of the “Chattanooga Walking Tour & Historic Guide” and the “East Tennessee Walking Tour & Historic Guide.” Maury has served on the boards of Chattanooga History Center and Cornerstones, Inc., Chattanooga's historic preservation organization.
Carol Burton
Carol Burton attended Dalton State College, where she began her 16 years as a Road Scholar coordinator with its Center for Educational Adventure. Married to her childhood sweetheart, she grew up in Hampton, Va., and moved to Georgia in 1970. Carol said she was born with a love for animals and volunteers with her local humane society.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Some walking and standing on field trips. Diesel engine train and coach transfers.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(7 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
11 meals | 5B | 2L | 4D |
2 expert-led lectures
8 expert-led field trips
3 performances
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Chattanooga, TN
Meals:
D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chattanooga Downtown
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 3:00-5:00 p.m. After checking in and receiving your key at the front desk, please go to the conference room located near the lobby area to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
Chattanooga History, Chickamauga, Choo Choo
Location:
Chattanooga, TN
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chattanooga Downtown
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 2 hours riding time. Walking about 3/4 mile, standing up to an hour at a time during field trips; pavement, grass, dirt, uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll be joined in our hotel meeting room by a local expert for a presentation on the history of Chattanooga. Next, we will board a motorcoach with our expert for a field trip through the downtown area of Chattanooga. We’ll become acquainted with the area and get a look at the local revitalization as we hear a brief history of the city.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will board a motorcoach with our historian for a field trip to Chickamauga Battlefield, where we’ll learn what happened September 18-20, 1863, and how it impacted the Civil War. Chattanooga was a key rail center and gateway to the heart of the Confederacy. The Battle of Chickamauga was fought for this prize and is essential to understanding Chattanooga’s history. Only the Battle of Gettysburg was more lethal but, unlike that notorious conflict, Chickamauga was a huge Union defeat.
Dinner:
We will ride a short distance to a popular local restaurant.
Evening:
For our next expert-led field trip, we’ll explore Terminal Station — better known as the home of the Chattanooga Choo Choo — that includes a presentation on the history of renowned Track 29. Terminal Station is now part of the Chattanooga Choo Choo Hotel. We’ll then ride back to our hotel.
Day
3
Cherokee Trail of Tears, Rock City & Ruby Falls
Location:
Chattanooga, TN
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chattanooga Downtown
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 15 miles, approximately 3/4 hour riding time. At Rock City, walking 100-foot trail; 35 stairs in sets of 4-5 stairs with handrails; uneven, inclines. Ruby Falls building entrance handicapped accessible, cave not wheelchair accessible. Elevator down to starting point of cave walk, approximately 4/5 of a mile each way; hard packed dirt, uneven paths, no seating. Participants must be able to remain comfortably on their feet up to 90 minutes.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Before the arrival of the Europeans, the land where Asheville now exists lay within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation. We will be joined by a local expert for a presentation on Cherokee legends and a performance. Our expert plays the Cherokee flute, rattle, the Native American drum, the five-string banjo, guitars, and the Appalachian dulcimer. Through this presentation and performance, we’ll delve into centuries of Cherokee history and culture that will address one of America’s darkest tragedies. We’ll learn about the Indian Removal Act of 1830 that forced tribal people out of their homes to lands in the West and on into the present. We will then take a short drive to Lookout Mountain. The mountain was the setting for two historic battles. The so-called “last battle of the Cherokee” took place in August of 1794. The 1863 Battle of Lookout Mountain —also known as the Battle Above the Clouds — sounded the death knell of the Confederacy when Union troops prevailed. As we ponder its history, we can marvel at the panoramic view of seven states.
Lunch:
At a Rock City restaurant.
Afternoon:
More than 200 million years of weathering have produced the massive, unusually shaped sandstone boulders in what is now known as Rock City, situated at 1,700 feet above sea level atop Lookout Mountain. During this self-directed exploration, we will be able to traverse a walking trail more than 4,000 feet long that features not only these ancient rock formations but caves and gardens with more than 400 species of native plants. We will walk at our own pace and see what interests each of us most. There are places along the trail to sit as well as easy access back to the starting point. Our Group Leader will be available to answer any questions about trail logistics. We’ll then hop back aboard the motorcoach for a short drive on the mountain top to Ruby Falls, where we will go on a walking exploration with a local expert. We’ll learn how this extraordinary geological wonder was discovered in 1928 by a team of excavators who came across it 1,120 feet beneath the surface. The waterfall is 145 feet high, falling through a cavern created by the same geological forces as Rock City and Lookout Mountain itself. When they say don’t drink the water, they mean it! The water in Ruby Falls contains high concentrations of magnesium.
Dinner:
On your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. This is an opportunity to enjoy dinner on your own or with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Missionary Ridge Train Turnaround, Hiawassee Murphy Museum
Location:
Hiawassee, GA
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
The Ridges Hotel & Marina
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 120 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time. Getting on/off a train.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll check out of the hotel and ride to the Missionary Ridge train station for our field trip by train to Missionary Ridge and the train museum there. Chattanooga was a railroad center for nearly a century and a hub of Southeastern U.S. travel. We’ll board the train and ride on one of the original rail lines into the city via either steam or vintage diesel locomotive. Along the way, we will witness two unique methods of turning a train around. We will also ride through Missionary Ridge Tunnel, notable for its uniqueness as a horseshoe tunnel, in which the top of the tunnel is wider than the bottom. After our ride, we will go backstage at the East Chattanooga Back Shop where the conductor will take you us through the process of restoring trains. After the train ride, we’ll have some time for independent exploration of the museum to learn about the role of railroads in the history and development of this region and see railroad artifacts in an authentic setting. We will then ride back into town at hop off at the hotel, which is in an area with a number of restaurants.
Lunch:
On your own to have what you like. There are lunch spots around the hotel.
Afternoon:
Next, we will reboard the motorcoach and ride to Hiawassee, Georgia. Along the way, we’ll see a video and enjoy the beautiful scenery. We’ll stop in the small town of Murphy, North Carolina, for a field trip to the Cherokee County Museum with displays of the rich history of Native American and pioneer settlers in the far-western corner of the state. The museum is housed in the historic Carnegie Library. We will check in to our hotel upon arrival in Hiawassee.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We’ll have a delightful evening of musical entertainment at the hotel. Guest musicians will perform a wide range of music including folk, bluegrass, gospel, and country.
Day
5
Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Train Ride
Location:
Hiawassee, GA
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
The Ridges Hotel & Marina
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 80 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours riding time (one hour to Blue Ridge and one hour return). Getting on/off a train; riding about 44 miles, approximately 4.5 hours riding time. Walking from parking lot to motorcoach.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board the motorcoach and ride to Blue Ridge, GA. Starting at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, we'll take a four-hour, 26-mile roundtrip journey along the Toccoa River through the North Georgia countryside. The first leg of the adventure takes us on a one hour trip to the quaint sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee, nestled deep in the mountains on each state’s line. We'll enjoy the small town atmosphere during a two-hour layover before taking the one-hour return trip through the scenic forest and back to the depot in Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Lunch:
Lunch in local area of train layover.
Afternoon:
We will have a relaxed return to the depot in Blue Ridge. We’ll then reboard our motorcoach and ride back to Hiawassee.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
We’ll gather with an expert musician who plays many different instruments and enjoy more of his music. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Program Concludes, Return To Chattanooga
Location:
Hiawassee, GA
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach by 8:30 a.m.; driving about 110 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motor coach by 8:30 a.m. with expected arrival back in Chattanooga by approximately 11:30 a.m. We will drop off first at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) and then at the DoubleTree Hotel. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
11 Meals
5 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
- Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 21, 2025 (Chattanooga, TN to Hiawassee, GA)
- Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025 (Chattanooga, TN to Hiawassee, GA)
- May 11, 2025 - May 16, 2025 (Chattanooga, TN to Hiawassee, GA)
- May 18, 2025 - May 23, 2025 (Chattanooga, TN to Hiawassee, GA)
- Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025 (Chattanooga, TN to Hiawassee, GA)
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- Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025 (Chattanooga, TN to Hiawassee, GA)
Participant Reviews
Based on 64 Reviews
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I really enjoyed the trip. I enjoyed seeing the city of Chattanooga, which our tour guides, Carol and Bill, knew an incredible amount. I liked that Carol seemed to have established relationships with all the other guides, who gave very good presentations on the history of Chattanooga and all the buildings in downtown, the Battle of Chickamauga, history of trains and seeing the old train station. I loved seeing Ruby Falls and the surrounding area. I wanted to hear more about the Cherokees and see more of where they lived (if that was possible. ,
I loved the resort we stayed at. the scenery around there was beautiful. In getting ready for this trip, the one thing I was really looking forward to was the train trip through part of the Smokey Mountains. What we got was a touristy train ride to thru Blue Ridge Mountains. I didn't see any mountains. S everal of us discussed this with Carol. And she did tell us, there was a prettier ride they used she told take people to but its 2 1/2 hours away each way. I understood that but still disappointed
Carol really made the trip very interesting. The stories she told she have had to have told a million times, but she made it sound very fresh. She's very engaging and attended everything with us. She always showed an interest in us and what she wanted to share.
I was glad I went. I'll have to try another train trip.
— Review left October 28, 2024
Informative, educational, multi-faceted program in a beautiful part of the country, led by a well-organized, warmhearted, good-humored and experienced leader!
— Review left October 28, 2024
I knew little about this area of our vast country before arriving here. Carol Burton is a trip leader extraordinaire, leading with skill and humor, and bringing in presenters that are incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining. I'm grateful to have had her as our leader and to have learned so much from her and the speakers. Amazing!
— Review left October 27, 2024
This program was educational and enjoyable. I was exposed to a number of issues that I found fascinating and very much broadened my understanding of some aspects of history and music that I had never explored, while in the company of some charming people.
— Review left October 23, 2024
Wonderful experience in a lovely setting. Great speakers who were also entertaining, a lovely guide taking care of us, and friendly fellow travelers all came together to make this a memorable time.
— Review left October 22, 2024
I very much enjoyed Trains, Cherokee and Culture of the Appalachian. It was informative, fun, and our leader, Carol Burton was a Delight. it was six fast paced days to see and learn a lot of interesting history and culture.
— Review left October 20, 2024
A fast-paced collection of "must-do" and "must-see" activities. Carol Burton is the consummate group leader. Together with Bill, they are hard to beat. All of the presenters were top-notch. I felt that I learned a lot from each. Our bus drivers were awesome, both Ciara and Earl. There was just enough free time and time in the mornings and after sessions, especially at the Ridge Resort. Being located "downtown" was a huge plus. Many kudos to all the people involved in the planning and executing.
— Review left October 12, 2024
Chattanooga, TN trip included learning about the civil war, train rides and music of the mountains. Well worth the time and money.
— Review left October 12, 2024
The program provided exactly what it advertised. Speakers and entertainment were excellent.
— Review left October 2, 2024
The logistics, lodging, programs and on site education are all a 10. The program tempo, breadth and depth provide an incredible educational opportunity. I knew little about Appalachia and the Trail of Tears beforehand… and so glad I came. The presentation on the Civil War Battle of Chickamauga was the best representation of before during and after I have ever seen. Sign up. Now. You will be glad you did.
— Review left September 24, 2024
This is a very will organized trip. If you think Chattanooga would be an uninteresting place to go to, you are incorrect. I did not expect to have such an eyeopening experience. And all of the presenters definitely added to the values of these experiences.
— Review left September 24, 2024
This was an amazing trip. The programme was fantastic; the talks were expertly given and extremely informative. The entertainment in the evenings was fantastic also. Over all we would highly recommend this programme. Our tour leader Carol was FANTASTIC to say the least. Nothing was too hard for her and she was an absolute delight. Road Scholar are lucky to have her.
— Review left September 17, 2024
Music (vocal & instrumental), Rail Roads, early USA (terrain, indigenous people, explorers), & knowledgeable/prepared speakers: this trip is a wealth of historical experiences & beautiful geography (mountains, valleys, caverns). Thank you Susan, & all the speakers & support staff who made our trip great.
— Review left September 14, 2024
A great human experience.
— Review left May 30, 2024
This is a fun, active, well rounded trip. Experience southern hospitality and charm. I learned a lot about the Civil War in this area, Cherokee history, and trains. Also, enjoyed stories and music of the mountain people. Highly recommend this trip. Ps- This was my 5th RS trip, I started in 2017. My first time in Tennessee, however; beautiful area.
— Review left May 25, 2024
We were so impressed by our tour leader and every lecturer associated with this program. Each and everyone was so knowledgeable, enthusiastic and gracious.
— Review left April 20, 2024
A good introduction to Chattanooga, Cherokee, and railroad history. The cavern and falls at Ruby Falls were interesting.
— Review left April 13, 2024
all of our other scholar programs have been working vacations, but this one was a true relaxing vacation. Carol BURTON AND Bill WERE the best. The two train rides were great. all the speckers were very interesting.
— Review left March 28, 2024
This program has lots of variety and packs a lot into four days. Our group leader, Carol, was so knowledgeable, warm and inclusive. The presenters were excellent and the fall foliage as we traveled to different locations was an added plus in this beautiful setting. Lots of fun, and I learned a lot!
— Review left October 24, 2023
An enjoyable experience with people who were interested in the topics and places we visited. They added to the experience with their questions and appreciation of the trip.
— Review left October 23, 2023
If you have been thinking about trying Road Scholar, take the leap! Programs are fascinating, interesting companions, and good attention to detail!
— Review left October 15, 2023
The South has so much to offer and such kind people that are a joy to be around. This program allows you to experience many important areas in just a few days. I learned a lot and am grateful to Road Scholar for making this happen.
— Review left October 10, 2023
All aboard the learning train and have some fun, excellent meals & meet new people!
— Review left October 2, 2023
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed this excursion and the people we met. A tour guide can make or break a trip, and guide, Carol, was absolutely delightful. When interruptions to her plan occured, she smiled through them, reach into her proverbial bag of tricks, and solved the issues. Those she had present to us were top notch, as funny as informed. The presenter at Chickamaugua (literally on the battlefield) did an amazing job explaining the complexities of the battle that broke my heart for the soldiers. (I'm a softie.) Overall, the week was fun and informative, but also a relaxing get-away. The Ridges lodge is in such a lovely situation. Highly recommend.
— Review left September 29, 2023
Some amazing sites, the travel to them could be filled with more info, especially using the whisper device.
— Review left September 28, 2023
Interesting and informative program on
the Chattanooga TN and Hiawassee GA areas, including two trips on old railways, history of Civil War battles near Chattanooga, history of the Cherokee Indians and their forced removal from that area, and lovely presentations of Appalachian music. This program was well worth attending.
— Review left September 27, 2023
Thanks to our Program leader, Mrs. Carol Burton and The Road Scholar programming department for another fantastic adventure!
— Review left June 6, 2023
Despite thinking I would not be very interested in Civil War history, I was fascinated by the Chickamauga battlefield visit. Overall, the program was very enlightening.
— Review left May 29, 2023
Magic happened last week, I went to Appalachia. It was a combination of Blue Ridge Mountains, military history, geology, Cherokee lore, carousel ride, back in time train rides; caring and curious travelers; engaging and entertaining speakers; on top of it co-leaders, Carol (a rare gem) and Bill Burton. My only regret was not getting a Rock City Bird house. Darn!! Bella, aka Isabel, Delores `- no I'm not in the witness protection program.
— Review left May 28, 2023
This program was so informative and the learning aspect was great. Carol, our group leader, was great and I feel I have made a lifelong friend with someone one I only was with a few days. I will definitely be attending more Road Scholar trips.
— Review left March 28, 2023
This program was a good mix of Civil war history, Appalachian & Cherokee history & culture and great live music.. Carol Burton, our RS group leader was the epitome of southern charm. She was greeted with open arms, warm hugs, and big smiles everywhere we went. Her leadership, clear communication, and attention to detail were all superb. To date, Carole has been my favorite Road Scholar group leader. David, the bus driver, was safety conscious and personable too. Accommodations were well located and comfortable.
— Review left November 3, 2022
Five members of my family and I spent five days on the Great Smokies trip; Trains, Cherokee and appalachian Culture to celebrate my 90th birthday. We had a wonderful time with a very congenial group of participants led by the best-ever group leader Carol Burton. Shirley Woolaway
— Review left October 24, 2022
The program delivered the goals stated in the tour brochures. I'm glad I made the trip.
— Review left October 17, 2022
Fascinating Civil War and native American history as well as local history. I recommend autumn as the time to do it because of the lovely and colorful scenery, and also because the weather is pleasant.
— Review left October 17, 2022
To see the actual location where a major battle was fought during the Civil War was truly amazing. It was so easy to see how the terrain played an important part in their strategy.
— Review left October 16, 2022
A very well led program that gives great insight into the Cherokee and Appalachian Culture and provides fall foliage colors at their peak. Presenters are among the best of any program I have done. Good train excursions and accomodations.
— Review left October 15, 2022
Great program! Interesting, humorous, well planned. It's great having transportation provided and someone else handling the details!
— Review left October 15, 2022
We loved it so much the first time, we decided to do this trip again! B & V
— Review left October 9, 2022
My Chattanooga experience was great! We had so many things to see and explore each day. It was filled with numerous learning experiences and activities. I would highly recommend this trip for persons interested in historical battles, trains, and just plain old fun. Betty Colbert, Crowley, Texas
— Review left September 26, 2022
Carol Burton was a wonderful guide. Made friends, learned a lot, and the weather was perfect!!
— Review left September 26, 2022
Great trip it lived up the description. We had a great time,
— Review left September 21, 2022
This program was fun and informative and had one of the best leaders we have ever met
— Review left May 13, 2022
This program packs a lot of variety into an exploration of the region around Chattanooga and then east to North Carolina and northern Georgia. April was a beautiful time to be in the mountains. Trees were leafing out and everything was in bloom. Hiking underground to Ruby Falls was quite an adventure. Rock City is like a botanical garden within huge rock formations with easy pathways to a scenic viewpoint. Riding in vintage train cars was a treat, as well as learning about railroad history. I did not know much about the importance of Chattanooga in the Civil War until this program. Carol was a great group leader. She kept everything on time and in good order while being unfailingly gracious.
— Review left April 23, 2022
This is a dream trip for early American history. And you have great natural landscapes to take in and travel through I would do thus again!
— Review left April 20, 2022
This was a fun and interesting trip with a friendly group of people. Chattanooga has a lot to offer with a very nice area along the river. The hotel at Hiawassee is very pretty. I liked learning about the history of the area and riding on the historic railroads. I enjoyed the performance by a barbershop chorus and had great time listening to Lee Knight sing regional music and play the banjo. Carol Burton, our group leader, did a wonderful job of welcoming everyone and keeping things running smoothly.
— Review left April 19, 2022
Great trip, Carol Burton knows the area well and translates this knowledge to tour participants. She goes out of her way to accommodate any special requests. This tour really has a little of everything; Civil War battlefield, historic trains, nature, Appalachian/Cherokee culture, folk music. Food was good especially the Alleia restaurant in Chattanooga. Also don't miss lunch at the Maple Street Biscuit Company in Chattanooga. It's a family run place where you can experience real down home Southern cooking. This trip is a definite must for train buffs. Tennessee Valley Railroad has an outstanding collection of locomotives and passenger cars in well preserved shape. Standing in that underground room viewing 150 foot high Ruby Falls was an awesome experience. Early spring is a great time to take this trip, light jacket weather and no need for air conditioning in the rooms.
— Review left April 4, 2022
This is a "shout out" for our wonderful leader Carol Burton who literally was so delightful and gracious! Carol was so instrumental in creating a most delightful and memorable trip!
— Review left March 27, 2022
An excellent way to learn about parts of our country I have never thought about. The people that attend these programs are often very interesting themselves.....flexible, open to meeting others and curious. the instructors are well chosen and present their subjects well.
— Review left March 27, 2022
The website gives a taste of some exciting travel and educational opportunities. Good place to get ideas about truly valuable travel experiences you might not even realize could happen.
Easy to follow with helpful information to make plans for travel while learning.
— Review left March 26, 2022
Wonderful trip. A lot was packed in The trip was both educational and entertaining. Carol is super organized.
The speakers were impressive as well as the evening entertainment.
— Review left November 9, 2021
The website is easy to use and provides significant information about the programs.
— Review left October 31, 2021
Great fun. Learned a lot and enjoyed the field trips. Doesn't concentrate on a single issue but deals with many things from the Chattanooga are.
— Review left October 30, 2021
Overall a great program. Worth the time.
— Review left October 29, 2021
Educational, fun. Looking forward to my next trip with Road Scholar
— Review left October 23, 2021
Interesting overview of history and culture in this part of the country.
— Review left September 30, 2021
This was the most varied of the programs in which we've participated! From fun train excursions to an awesome 130' cavern waterfall with colorful lights to learning about the Cherokee people to hearing music from the Appalachian area - it was something for everyone - men and women!
— Review left September 27, 2021
The Great Smokies-Trains, Cherokee and Appaalachian Culture was a look into this part of America and our history and well worth the trip.
— Review left September 25, 2021
This tour was better than I expected. I came away learning so much more than I expected I look forward Covid controlling the situation ,the ability to got to the placesI have had to cancel.
— Review left September 24, 2021
As usual, a great bunch of participants.
— Review left September 19, 2021
As a newly single person, I didn't know if I would feel included but that fear disappeared on the very first day. I'm looking forward to my next Road Scholar trip!
— Review left September 18, 2021
Our trip was enjoyable, reasonably priced, well organized with a terrific leader and our group was very congenial. A great way to get a feel for the the Smokey Mountain area and an overview of the history.
Dave Hadden
Carlsbad, CA
— Review left June 6, 2019
The program covers parts of our history that are not well known but should be. We learned about the native inhabitants and the people who came in to the region and about the railroads in different eras.
— Review left May 25, 2019
If you are interested in some history of the Civil War, Appalachin music and culture and want to see some beautiful country, this is the course to take. I found it to be the best Road Scholar course I have taken.
— Review left May 20, 2019
This was an overall interesting trip. The train rides were enjoyable. We learned about the Cherokee and the Trail of Tears from an local Appalachian resident, a non-Cherokee, who had studied the history. Chattanooga is a beautiful city, and the local expert did an excellent job of summarizing its fascinating history.
— Review left April 21, 2019
