If you’re a train or railroad enthusiast visiting the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area, you’ll want to be sure to schedule enough time during your trip to visit the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This is truly a mecca for anyone who has a love for the great American railway. There are multiple trips available for all different types of adventures. You can find everything from all-day excursions, to beer tasting tours and even rides specifically designed for children. Let’s dive in and learn more about what the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has to offer.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Overview
Located in Bryson City, North Carolina, the railway spans 53 miles of track suspended over 25 bridges and incorporates two tunnels that pass through the Carolina Mountains. This is all tucked away in a remote and incredibly scenic corner of western North Carolina, but less than an hour and a half drive from Rafting in the Smokies. This area is home to over 125 tree varieties alone. According to their website, there are “more than 1,000 species of flowering plants, 200 birds, and more than 100 species of fish and animals.” Not only is this the perfect destination for railroad fans, but nature lovers as well!
Here are two of the most popular trips offered at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad:
Nantahala Gorge Excursion
This four and a half-hour outing will take you 44 miles to the Nantahala Gorge and return to the Bryson City Depot. During this excursion, you will travel along the Tennessee and Nantahala rivers. You’ll ride the historic 791 ft. long Fontana Trestle bridge across Fontana Lake and arrive at the Nantahala Gorge. Passengers will depart the train for a one-hour layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center before returning to the Bryson City Depot. This trip is available on both diesel and steam-powered locomotives, running from March until October. You can schedule your outing by checking the availability on the trip’s information page.
Tuckasegee River Excursion
Another package that is available by both diesel and steam-powered trains is the Tuckasegee River Excursion. This four-hour ride both departs from and arrives at the Bryson City Depot. Get ready for a calming country ride out to the small town of Dillsboro. Here you’ll have a one-and-a-half-hour layover where you’ll have time to eat and visit some of the small town country shops. Movie buffs will be thrilled to know this trip passes by the movie set of The Fugitive, starring Harrison Ford! This trip is currently running on Saturdays only during the months of January and February. For more information or to book your excursion, visit the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
Uncorked and The Peanuts™ Easter Beagle Express
If you’re trying to find a unique Valentine’s Day outing, look into the Uncorked Trip. This is a First Class railcar ride designed around wine and food pairings. You’ll have a private attendant and the event will be narrated, discussing the history and details of the wines presented.
Need to plan something exciting for Easter? The Peanuts™ Easter Beagle Express is a fun-filled adventure for all ages! This is a four-hour trip where the kids get to hang out with Snoopy and the gang. Activities include an Easter egg hunt, coloring, temporary tattoos, snacks and much more! The trip is now open for booking, so don’t miss your chance at participating in the coolest Easter event around.
If you’re in the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area, consider an excursion with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and embark on the trip of a lifetime. There are multiple options available throughout the year, so head over to their website and explore which one is right for you.
