A short work train crossing over Copper Creek trestle on the former Clinchfield.

The 82nd CSX Santa Train crosses Copper Creek Viaduct near Duffield, VA.

It's a little scary out there high above the creek and the Southern line below as a East Tennessee NRHS steam-only excursion heads back south.

This year I had the opportunity to visit CSX's former Clinchfield route between Elkhorn City, KY and Kingsport, TN, to witness the 82nd running of the CSX Santa Train, which annually travels throu... (more)

The 82nd Clinchfield Santa Train eases across the massive Copper Creek trestle near Clinchport, Virginia.

The 75th Clinchfield Santa Train eases across the massive Copper Creek trestle near Clinchport, Virginia.

For the second straight year, Santa had waved-out when his sleigh crossed the Clinchfield lettering on Copper Creek, but CEO Joe Hinricks and crew look like they're still enjoying the event.

The Clinchfield heritage unit crosses Copper Creek, with the Clinchfield lettering still present.

CSX's 82nd Annual Santa Train P001-23 heads South to Kingsport as they pass over Copper Creek Trestle in Speers Ferry, VA.

CSX 2024 Santa Train crossing Copper Creek

After a surprise visit from CSX M693, the main event, CSX B669 crosses the infamous Copper Creek Viaduct. CN 5764, a less common CN SD75I, leads the charge.

CSX Trackage Rights coal train T090 heads East on the NS Appalachia District passing the famed Copper Creek trestle.

With just about every inch of space at ground level taken, I decided to scramble to the top of Copper Creek for a shot I've always wanted. Crawling in at 2mph, the 80th CSX Santa Train gleams in t... (more)

The 2018 Clinchfield Santa Train crosses the Copper Creek Bridge.

A loaded coal train for Brice soars over Copper Creek Trestle in golden evening light.