About the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers perhaps the most unique way to enjoy the views of Nantahala Forest. Board an historic steam-powered train for an unforgettable tour through the mountains of North Carolina while soaking in the forest’s vibrant and lush scenery.  There’s a wide variety of train options available to you, as the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers both standard rides to elaborate excursion packages. If you’re ready to ride the rail through some of the South’s most incredible landscapes, here’s everything you need to know before you board.

Standard Train Rides

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has two standard train rides to choose from on two different types of trains. Each train and track offers different experiences depending on which car you book and whether you embark on a ride through the Nantahala Gorge or down the Tuckasegee River.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion

Nantahala Gorge is the standard, classic ride that everyone falls in love with when they visit. You’ll coast through the Great Smoky Mountains, along the Tennessee River, and over historic bridges. It’s a fun tour that lasts around 4 hours.

If you want to experience Nantahala Gorge with all the sights, sounds, and tastes of North Carolina, you’ll need to book a Moonshine Tour. You’ll be served classic cocktails alongside decadent desserts. It’s an all-adult first class experience that shouldn’t be missed!

Book the Nantahala Gorge Excursion here.

Tuckasegee River Excursion 

This ride will guide you through the quiet country towns throughout western North Carolina.You’ll dock for an hour in the small town of Dillsboro that has awesome BBQ restaurants and souvenir shops, then you’ll return back to Bryson City.

For a bit more of a romantic experience, you can reserve a place on a sunset train ride. Because the region this train rides is more flat, you can get a better view of exquisite sunsets through the window of the train.

Book the Tuckasegee River Excursion here.

Package Prices

Want a trip that has a bit more thrill to it? There are several smaller train rides where the destination is one of three excursions: whitewater rafting, ziplining, or hiking the mountains.Take a look at the following packages and add another layer of adventure to your time on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

• Raft and Rail
• Tarzan Train
• Rail and Trail

Events

On top of all the various packages and train rides you can book, there are seasonal events that run throughout the year, including the famous Polar Express Experience and an Easter Celebration called Bunny Hopper. Take a look at the events page for more details on each train event that’s possible to book.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Events are listed here.

Get The Most Out of The Great Smoky Mountains

Spend as much time as you can in the Great Smoky Mountains area by booking your stay at Cherokee Mountain Cabins. Nestled in the heart of Nantahala National Forest, our cabins allow you to be fully immersed in nature while enjoying modern and luxurious accommodations.  Our cabins are just minutes away from Bryson City, NC and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. We offer the perfect blend of comfortable amenities and a rustic, mountain charm that ensure a comfortable and rejuvenating stay. Unwind in cozy interiors adorned with wooden accents, plush furnishings, and luxurious beds. Book your stay with us today to discover the best the Nantahala River Gorge has to offer.