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Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

226 Everett St · Bryson City, NC

Why you should go…

Departing from a historic 1920s depot in Bryson City, North Carolina, these rail excursions run along the Tuckasegee and Nantahala rivers through territory used in films like The Fugitive. Open-air, first-class, and dining-car options are all available depending on the trip.

  • #train
  • #scenic ride
  • #river
  • #excursion

Good to know

General tours guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Confirm the meeting point

    It is often a corner, a lobby, or a dock rather than the address you searched for. Check it the night before.

  • Small groups fill first

    In high season the intimate departures sell out well before the big-bus options do.

  • Ask how much is on foot

    Knowing how much of the route is walking, standing, or outdoors tells you what to wear and carry.

  • Read the weather policy

    Cancellation windows and rain rules vary by operator, and they are easier to find before you pay than after.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, ordered by straight-line distance.

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Bryson City, North Carolina

    Free

    A mountain town bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a gateway for rafting, hiking, and the Cherokee reservation.

    0.4 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    Clingmans Dome

    Free

    The highest point in the Smokies, with a 360-degree observation tower above the treeline.

    9.7 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Sightseeing
    Outdoor Adventure

    Newfound Gap

    Free

    The lowest drivable pass across the Smokies, straddling the Tennessee-North Carolina line.

    13 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Outdoor Adventure

    Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

    Free

    A quiet 5.5-mile loop past waterfalls and preserved log cabins deep in the national park.

    18 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Sport & Outdoor
    Family Favorite

    Ober Mountain

    $25–$50

    An aerial tramway ride up to alpine coasters, a ropes course, and mountaintop views.

    19 mi awaySwitch it up: Sport & Outdoor

  • Sightseeing
    Iconic

    Gatlinburg Space Needle

    Under $25

    A 407-foot observation tower with a glass elevator ride to a 360-degree viewing deck.

    20 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing