The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad began humbly in the late 1890s. Today, it’s hard to imagine that modest start, as the railroad has become a beloved regional attraction, offering scenic mountain journeys and creating lasting memories year-round.
And no matter your age or the season, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will have something special in store for you! So, what are you waiting for? All Aboard!!!
Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains is always a delight, but when you add a scenic train ride through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest, and along Fontana Lake, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
Explore the Smokies By Rail
Departing from the Bryson City depot, the Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River Excursions run year-round, offering a chance to see the beauty of all four seasons. It’s hard to find a more relaxing way to travel. Plus, specialty excursions and themed rides are available for both adults and kids, so there’s something for everyone.
The Uncorked Wine Train runs February through July and offers the traveler a truly unique vantage point of the Nantahala National Forest in all of her glory while enjoying choice wines, paired cheeses, a delicious surf + turf meal and seasonally-inspired dessert. This is Date Night done in absolute style!
On Easter weekend, the whole family can be treated on the Bunny Hopper Express! There’s a healthy layover during this 4 ½ hour round-trip excursion so the kiddos have time for an Easter egg hunt and treats (and of course, the photo opps with the Bunnies!).
If you’re visiting between March and August, you may be lucky enough to nab a seat on the Smoky Mountain Beer Run. This adult-only 3 ½ hour round-trip includes a layover at Innovation Station Brewery right on the rail line. But you will not have to wait for the layover for the craft beer! You will be sipping the entire journey through. Does it get any better than scenic beauty and craft beer and a designated driver? Hardly.
Another special one for the kids (and kids at heart) is the Polar Express train ride, running between November and December. These 1 ¼ hour trips journey through the quiet wilderness, all the way to the North Pole (you know, in our imaginations). The young and not-so-young will marvel at the sights and sounds, the hot cocoa and caroling, as the pajama’d passengers ride along with the telling of the magical story, The Polar Express, all the way to Santa Claus himself.
Anytime of year is the right time of year to hop a train. Get ticket online at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.