AMS:
Our club (North Atlanta O Gauge Railroad Club) rode one of Blue Ridge Scenic's Hiawassee Loop excursions back in September 2008. We rode in one of the open cars, which all of us greatly enjoyed. The weather was spectacular and being in the open car gives you more of a chance to experience the sounds and smells associated with the train as well enjoy the scenery and a nice fall day. The seating in the two open cars on our train were the long benches identical to that in the photos and similar to what you'd see in an old station waiting room. I'm not certain about their regular runs up to McCaysville, but on the Loop ride, once we reached the turn around point of the trip, they had everyone in the car switch sides so that those of us who had the river view on the way north were now looking at the mountains. The Hiawassee Loop trips are pretty much an all day affair, leaving Blue Ridge around 8:30AM and not returning till late in the afternoon. The normal trips are half that time and give you an opportunity to get off the train in McCaysville to walk around town and have lunch.
From a safety perspective, particularly since you have young children, the open cars have high sides that will safely give the young ones a good view. I would recommend good closed toe shoes, however; no sandals or flip flops, particularly if you are going to take a walk through the train to the concession car. You will also want comfortable shoes for walking around McCaysville during your layover.
I think you and your family will have a great time riding one of Blue Ridge Scenics trips!
Curt
