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, Tenn., 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 2 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.

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.

For information, see www.brscenic.com or call 1-800-934-1898.