The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Departing from the charming town of Bryson City, North Carolina, this historic railroad takes passengers on a journey through the heart of the Appalachian wilderness, showcasing the region’s stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Train Ride Options: Discover the Wonders of the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers two main excursions, each with its own distinct charm and highlights:
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Nantahala Gorge Excursion: This 4.5-hour round-trip ride takes passengers along the Nantahala River, offering stunning views of the Nantahala Gorge. The excursion includes a one-hour layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), where visitors can explore the area’s outdoor activities or grab a bite to eat. The journey also features a historic Trellis Bridge crossing over the picturesque Fontana Lake.
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Tuckasegee River Excursion: This 4-hour round-trip ride takes passengers through the countryside to the charming town of Dillsboro, where they can enjoy a one-hour and 20-minute layover to explore the local shops and restaurants. The excursion covers a total of 32 miles, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and rich history.
Special Events and Dining Options: Elevate Your Experience
In addition to the standard train rides, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers a variety of special events and dining options to enhance your experience:
- Uncorked Wine Train: An all-adult, first-class ride with a private attendant and dining seating, featuring wine tastings and narration.
- Smoky Mountain Beer Run: An adults-only excursion with beer tastings, food, and music.
- Polar Express Train: A family-friendly ride with hot cocoa and a treat, set to the motion picture soundtrack.
- Boxed Lunches: Pre-purchased lunches available for Crown and Coach class passengers.
- Rafting Add-On: Includes a one-way trip to Nantahala Outdoor Center with a guided whitewater rafting trip back.
Train Seating and Museum: Immerse Yourself in the Experience
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers a variety of seating options to suit your preferences:
- Seating Options: First-class dining, Crown, Coach, Premium, and Regular open-air seats are available.
In addition to the train rides, the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum is included with your ticket. This impressive museum features a collection of 7,000 Lionel engines, cars, and accessories, as well as an operating layout that showcases the region’s railroad history.
Location and Contact: Plan Your Visit
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is located in Bryson City, North Carolina, approximately 45 miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The depot address is 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC 28713, and the phone number is 800-872-4681.
Distance and Worth the Trip: Exploring the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is located about a 1-hour drive from Gatlinburg, making it a convenient and worthwhile addition to your Smoky Mountains itinerary. The scenic train rides, special events, and immersive museum experience make it a memorable and unique way to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the Appalachian region.
References
- https://www.pigeonforge.com/business/great-smoky-mountains-railroad/
- https://www.romanticasheville.com/great_smoky_mountain_railroad.htm
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g60842-i150-k14522783-Train_ride-Gatlinburg_Tennessee.html
- https://www.pigeonforgetncabins.com/smoky-mountains-railroad/
- https://gsmr.com