Behind the Scenes at the Dollywood Railroad
The engineer sounds the whistle and your 20-minute mountain excursion is underway. Our authentic 110-ton coal-fired steam engine takes you on a breathtaking five-mile journey through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains where you’ll enjoy pastoral scenery and some of the most beautiful views that nature has to offer. Close your eyes and enjoy a fascinating trip back in time when travel in and out of the mountains of Pigeon Forge relied on trains like the Dollywood Express.
Dollywood’s commitment to authenticity and history shines through with its use of two genuine 2/8/2 Baldwin Steam Locomotives for the Dollywood Express. These magnificent engines, named “Klondike Katie” and “Cinderella,” were built by the Baldwin Manufacturing Company just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1943 and 1939, respectively. Originally constructed for the U.S. Army, these engines played a significant role during World War II in Alaska, hauling troops and lumber.
“Klondike Katie,” engine number 192, and “Cinderella,” engine number 70, each carry a unique history. Today, they weigh 110 tons and can carry up to 550 passengers in seven cars. Every day, these engines consume two tons of coal and 4,000 gallons of water, demonstrating the immense power and dedication required to operate them.
Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at a major tourist railroad? What does it take to keep the engine operating and the cars rolling?
We’ll get to take a peek behind the curtain and see what it takes to keep these two locomotives running. Join us for a 2-hour behind-the-scenes tour of the Dollywood Railroad backshops. The van will leave the Glenstone Lodge parking lot at 7:30 am and return at 10:30 am. The cost for the outing is $30.00 per person. You must be a registered convention attendee to add this extra-fare item to your registration.
