Chattanooga’s Incline Railway celebrates 130 years

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – From the first days of early mountain tourism to the modern skyline we see today, the Incline Railway has remained a constant, iconic landmark.

Today, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways marks a milestone few landmarks will ever reach.

During the celebration, Dylan Rivera, the City of Chattanooga’s Director of Policy Planning and Implementation, delivered a proclamation.

He said, “I recognize and proclaim November 16, 2025, to be the 130th anniversary of Lookout Mountain Incline Railway Day. Thank you.”

News 12 joined the Chattanooga community as they celebrated one of the city’s most beloved attractions.

The Incline Railway reached its 130th anniversary with laughter, crowds, and stories that never grow old.

Charles Frazier, CEO of the Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority, shared the excitement.

He said, “This is the steepest funicular and the longest funicular in North America, so it is such an amazing asset that we have here in Chattanooga. The celebration was also good because we had tickets for sale for one dollar and thirty cents. It has been packed all day. We were sold out the day after we advertised it.”

Crowds filled the platform, and the energy of the day reflected what officials say is at the heart of the railway’s longevity.

It is not just about engineering.

It is about the way the Incline connects people to Chattanooga’s past and keeps that history alive.

District 2 City Councilwoman Jenny Hill shared emotional remarks about the railway’s place in the community.

She stated, “It has been here through wars and economic change, through decades of growth and reinvention. It has watched our neighborhoods evolve and our community come together through generations. The Incline has not just connected the base of the mountain to its feet. It has connected people. It brought families, friends, and visitors together to experience the wonder of Chattanooga, and it continues to do so one hundred and thirty years later.”

The celebration also acknowledged a recent fire that briefly interrupted service.

It served as a reminder of how resilient the Incline has been across its long history.

Frazier reflected on the recovery.

“We have been laser focused on recovery, so the team has been busy at work for a long time. We are so happy to have it back online.”

In the middle of the crowd, a young boy looked into the camera and wished the Incline a happy anniversary, capturing the spirit of the day with simple joy.

As Chattanooga continues to grow, city leaders say preserving landmarks like the Incline Railway helps keep the community grounded.

For one hundred and thirty years, the Incline has carried more than passengers.

It has carried memories, history, and the heart of Chattanooga itself.