Ride the Incline: the steepest railway in the world

They call it “America’s most amazing mile,” and it’s not hype — the Incline Railway climbs Lookout Mountain at a 72.7% grade, making it one of the steepest passenger railways in the world. It’s been running since 1895.

The ride

You board at the St. Elmo station at the foot of the mountain and ride trolley-style cars straight up the mountainside. The view of the Tennessee Valley opens up as you climb, and at the top there’s an observation deck plus easy access to Point Park — the Civil War “Battle Above the Clouds” site with miles of trails. Budget at least an hour, more if you walk the park.

What it costs and how to do it right

Round trip is around $15–20 for adults and about half that for kids — check ridetheincline.com for current prices and hours (roughly 9–6 daily, longer on weekends). Buy tickets online to skip the line. Go in the morning for the clearest views and smallest crowds.

Local tips

• The St. Elmo neighborhood at the bottom is worth a wander — coffee shops, antiques, and the best small-district feel in Chattanooga.
• There’s a Triple Play ticket covering the Incline, Rock City, and Ruby Falls if you’re doing all three.
• Point Park at the top is a National Park site — separate small admission, worth every penny for the history.

3917 St. Elmo Ave. You can’t miss the tracks going up the mountain.