There’s something magical about climbing a mountain by rail—especially when that railcar has giant windows and offers one of the steepest rides in the world. The Incline Railway in Chattanooga is not only a thrill to ride, but it’s also a dream for photographers. Whether you’re snapping shots with a DSLR, smartphone, or film camera, you’ll find endless inspiration along the way.
Here’s how to make the most of your ride—from boarding in St. Elmo to catching sweeping views at the summit of Lookout Mountain.
📍 Get the Best Seat for the Best Shot
Sit at the very front of the railcar—that’s the bottom row when ascending and the top row when descending. These seats provide the most open view straight down (or up!) the track, giving you that signature “floating into the sky” look.
Pro tip: Sit in a corner seat to get both a head-on shot of the tracks and a side window angle for city or landscape shots.
📷 Camera Settings & Gear Tips
If you’re using a camera with manual settings:
- Use a fast shutter speed to avoid motion blur (especially when the car starts or stops).
- Keep ISO low if lighting allows to reduce grain.
- A wide-angle lens will help capture more of the dramatic track and windows.
Smartphone user? Try using burst mode or live photo for better capture during movement.
⛰️ Take Your Time at the Summit
Once you reach the top—don’t rush. The view from the observation deck near the Upper Station is one of the best in Chattanooga. You can see the Tennessee River snaking through the city and the distant ridgelines surrounding the valley.
Recommended shots:
- Panoramic photo of the city skyline and river.
- Framed shot of the train tracks disappearing down the mountain.
- People candids looking over the railing or peeking through the binoculars.
- Golden hour glow if you’re lucky enough to visit during sunrise or sunset.
There’s also a little trail near the summit and, just a short walk away, Point Park offers additional scenic and historical photo ops.
🧍♀️ Pose & Perspective Ideas
- Lean into the incline: Create a fun illusion by posing inside the railcar while standing upright on the steep slope—it looks like you’re tilted sideways!
- Reflection shot: Use the train windows to capture double exposures of scenery and yourself.
- Leading lines: Use the rails as a composition tool that draws the eye into your image.
🛍️ Bonus Stop: Capture St. Elmo’s Charm
Before or after your ride, snap a few shots in St. Elmo. This historic neighborhood has colorful storefronts, murals, and cute outdoor cafes—perfect for detail shots or street photography.
Final Thoughts
The Incline Railway offers much more than a scenic ride—it’s a playground for creatives who love to capture the world in motion and from new angles. From panoramic landscapes to fun perspectives inside the car, there’s no shortage of photo opportunities here.
📸 So bring your camera, charge your phone, and don’t forget to look out the window—it’s a long way down, and every frame is worth it.
📍Location Reminder:
Lower Station: 3917 St. Elmo Avenue
Upper Station: 827 East Brow Road
