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Big South Fork Scenic Railway

At the turn of the 20th century, the town of Stearns was erected and served as a logging and mining hub. The Stearns Coal & Lumber Company was formed and quickly joined the kings of transportation building the famed Kentucky & Tennessee Railway. Stretching more than 25 miles to the big south fork River valley, it operated 12 steam locomotives in its heyday.

Tucked away in the mountains, The Big South Fork Scenic Railway begins its journey in the National Historic District of Stearns and follows 5 miles of vintage track of the Kentucky & Tennessee Railway following mountain streams and scenic beauty into the gorge of the Big South Fork, just like those trains from long ago. The 256-foot tunnel acts as a portal into the past. Passengers take a trip back in time while learning as well as seeing structures from our past. Each gentle curve along the railway reveals a spectacular scenic view or evidence of life from the past.

The railway offers unique excursions throughout the year such as Murder Mystery and The Polar Express Train Ride. Seasonal Adventures include Spring and Summer Runs as well as the Fall Color Run.