The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) offers a flexible cancellation policy that allows travelers to reschedule or receive refunds for their train excursions. This comprehensive guide will dive into the details of the GSMR cancellation policy, helping you navigate the process and make informed decisions for your upcoming trip.
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Cancellation Policy
The GSMR cancellation policy provides several options for travelers, depending on the timing of their cancellation request.
Refund Window
- You can cancel your reservation in full or in part and receive a refund less a $14.00 fee per adult ticket and $7.00 fee per child ticket as late as 5 days before departure, except for The Polar Express Train Ride, which has a 60-day cancellation window.
Non-Refundable Period
- Within 5 days of the departure, or 60 days in the case of the Polar Express Train Ride, the reservation becomes non-refundable.
Rescheduling
- You can reschedule any time prior to your originally scheduled departure with a $7.00 fee per ticket for another date within the same calendar year. You may not reschedule a reservation after the scheduled departure.
Fees Associated with Cancellation and Rescheduling
The GSMR cancellation policy includes the following fees:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cancellation Fee (per adult ticket) | $14.00 |
| Cancellation Fee (per child ticket) | $7.00 |
| Rescheduling Fee (per ticket) | $7.00 |
In addition to these fees, ticket fares are subject to a 7% Historic Preservation Fee.
Booking Policies
To finalize a reservation with the GSMR, payment in full at booking by major credit card is required. It’s important to note that schedules, fares, motive power, equipment, seat selection, and meals are subject to change without notice.
Real-Life Incident
One reviewer on TripAdvisor reported that they were offered a reschedule or refund when they cancelled their trip, but they had to take the refund because the date they wanted to reschedule was already full. This highlights the importance of being flexible with your travel plans and booking early to secure your preferred dates.
Conclusion
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad’s cancellation policy provides travelers with a range of options to accommodate changes in their plans. By understanding the details of the policy, including the refund window, non-refundable period, and associated fees, you can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth experience when booking and planning your GSMR excursion.