Tennessee
Trains, Cherokee and Culture in the Southern Appalachian Mountains
Program No. 21267RJ
Ride historic rails across scenic mountains as you learn about Appalachian culture, Cherokee heritage, traditional music and regional cuisine.
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Participant Reviews
Based on 65 Reviews
SHOWING
This is the best Road Scholar program I have attended -- largely because of the coordinator, the speakers, the other attendees, and the places we visited. We were busy seeing something new and wonderful every day!
— Review left October 31, 2024
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
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
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
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
Carol Burton was a wonderful guide. Made friends, learned a lot, and the weather was perfect!!
— Review left September 26, 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
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