Hop aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and take a trip into history! With depots in Dillsboro, Bryson City and Nantahala Outdoor Center, the train travels through quaint mountain towns and past scenic rivers along the southwestern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Revisit a bygone era and travel out the old Murphy Line, a major railway that connected rural Appalachia to points east. Book a train excursion online or by phone!
For pricing details and dates, visit our booking page. Choose from three seating options:
Standard: Choose from an Open Air Car or Coach (enclosed)
Crown: Climate-controlled cars with restrooms
Club: Climate-controlled with light hors d'oeuvres, beer and wine (21+)
All regular daytime trips include admission to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum in Bryson City.
Rapid Transit
This full-day family outing is wildly popular! The fun begins at the Bryson City depot with a morning train ride all the way through the Nantahala Gorge. After a deli-style lunch served riverside at NOC, you'll enjoy an afternoon rafting trip down the Nantahala River! Splash down 8 miles of family-friendly whitewater with our expert guides including the big finale at Nantahala Falls. NOC provides an instant photo show, hot showers, clean changing rooms and transportation back to your vehicle in Bryson City.
Nantahala Gorge Excursion
Departing Bryson City, the Nantahala Gorge Excursion travels along the Tuckasegee River, past Fontana Lake and deep into the Nantahala River Gorge. Highlights of this trip include the Horseshoe Curve, the Fontana Lake Trestle and a layover at Nantahala Outdoor Center. Surround yourself with steep cliffs, lush vegetation and clear rivers!
Tuckasegee River Excursion
This 34-mile round trip excursion departs from the quaint town of Dillsboro. Along its path to nearby Bryson City, the train crisscrosses the Tuckasegee River and chugs through the historic 836ft Cowee Tunnel. Spend some time wandering the scenic streets of Bryson City before returning to the Dillsboro depot.
Fontana Trestle Excursion
Travel along the Tuckasegee River from Bryson City and cross the breathtaking Fontana Lake Trestle. You'll arrive at sunset to catch one of the most scenic and hidden spots in the Smoky Mountains at an enchanting time of day. This trip has no layovers and is only available Thursdays, June 19 - August 7.
Whittier Sundown Excursion
Departing from the Dillsboro depot, the Sundown Excursion travels to the charming mountain town of Whittier. See rustic scenery, a lazy river and rolling fields--all cast in late day light. All seating is in open air cars on this summertime trip.
