nantahala gorge excursion train ride

Nantahala Gorge

March 2 - October 31, 2024

Starting at $59

Tuckasegee River

June 12, 2024 - January 12, 2025

July 3 - December 31, 2024

Starting at $69

February 9 - July 28, 2024

Starting at $169

Smoky Mountain Beer Run

March 16 - August 31, 2024

Starting at $114

Polar Express

November 7 - December 31, 2024

Starting at $44

Moonshine Experience

May 17 - November 2, 2024

Starting at $124

Fall Trains

September 21 - October 31, 2024

Raft n' Rail

April 2 - October 27, 2024

Starting at $142.75/adult

Starting at $125.75/child

Rail n' Trail

Kidzip train.

Starting at $130.95/adult

Starting at $113.95/child

Tarzan Train

Starting at $180.95/adult

Starting at $163.95/child

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Take a train ride along side the beautiful Nantahala River on our Nantahala Gorge Excursion! Departing from Bryson City, this 4 1/2 hour roundtrip excursion carries you 44 miles to the Nantahala Gorge and back again arriving at our Bryson City Depot.

TUCKASEGEE RIVER

Join us for a relaxing ride through quiet countryside on your way to small-town life in Western North Carolina on the Tuckasegee River Excursion. Departing from Bryson City, this 4-hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro and back to the Bryson City Depot. Pass by the famous movie set of  The Fugitive  starring Harrison Ford!

Don’t care where you’re going or what you’re doing as long as No. 1702 is on the train? This one’s for you. Choose from several steam operated train excursions.

Uncorked Booking

Passengers will enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride in our First Class cars with a private attendant and plush well-appointed dining seating. A narrator will accompany the ride to present each pour to guests and share knowledge and history of the wines selected. Passengers on this specialty car will enjoy an exclusive sampling of cheeses and a surf and turf meal prepared fresh. We have carefully selected our wine samples to accompany the meal.

The Polar Express

The original Raft & Rail since 1988: enjoy the two best adventures in the region in one day, great for families.  Southern Living Magazine  calls this “an ideal adventure for families, first-timers, young or old.” This full-day guided adventure starts with a Wildwater staff member greeting you at the train depot, followed by a scenic train trip, deli lunch with all the fixings, and a Nantahala River whitewater trip with a guide in every boat. Hot showers and a photo show follow immediately after your 8-mile Nantahala River trip. All transportation is included to and from the Bryson City Train Depot. Available April–October with the morning departure of the Nantahala Gorge Excursion departing Bryson City, NC. Train seating in Open Air Gondola.

Rail N' Trail

Enjoy this trip combining the Great Smoky Mountains Railroads trip with the Waterfall Jeep® tour. You’ll begin your trip in Bryson City, NC, with a 2 hour (approximate)  railroad excursion   over Fontana Lake and into the Nantahala Gorge. As you travel on the train, watch paddlers challenge the rapids. At the top of the line, disembark from the train and climb aboard Wildwater’s customized Jeep® for a 2-hour (approximate) personal exploration up the mountain, past waterfalls and lakes, up to the Appalachian Trail and back. A delicious deli lunch is included.

For kids 4-12 years old, ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in an open air car viewing the Nantahala Gorge, enjoying lunch, and then exploring in a scenic wooded adventure setting within view of parents. With a continuous cable system, there is no clipping and unclipping for the participants. Participants 4-6 years old must have a paying adult accompany them on the course. Equipment Furnished: Helmet, Harness, gloves.

Our train and canopy combo trip will start in Bryson City at the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad train depot. You will ride through the Smoky Mountains, along Fontana Lake and up into the Nantahala Gorge. On your 2-hour train ride, watch paddlers challenge the rapids on the Nantahala River. A delicious Deli Sandwich lunch is included. At the top-of-the-line, you will disembark the train and travel a short distance to Wildwater’s Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours. The original zip line canopy tour in Western North Carolina, Wildwater’s Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours offers 13 different zip lines and 8 sky bridges. Our two highest platforms have unbelievable views of Clingman’s Dome, Fontana Lake and waterfalls. This gliding experience, naturally fueled by a gradual elevation change, takes you through multiple ecosystems, past hemlocks, into hardwoods and through a deciduous forest packed with native flowering plants. All Canopy Tour Rangers are trained to – and all courses are built and inspected to – ACCT Standards to provide for your well-being and fun. This is a great experience for families. After enjoying the fully guided zip line tour, check out your photos and buy a t-shirt in Wildwater’s store. Your adventure will end later in the afternoon back at your car in Bryson City, NC. All transportation is included. Members of your party who can’t – or don’t want to – go on the canopy tour can ride the train round trip. You’ll all meet up shortly after the train’s return in Bryson City, NC.

The Nantahala Gorge Train Excursion Offers Some Of The Most Breathtaking Views In North Carolina

Robin Jarvis

More by this Author

The mountains in western North Carolina offer up some of the very best views on the east coast. And when it comes to planned excursions to experience the best of the best, you can’t beat the 4.5-hour train ride from Bryson City to deep within the Nantahala Gorge aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

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Ticket prices vary depending upon the type of engine pulling the train and the class level you choose to sit in. Adult (ages 13 and over) ticket prices range from $56 to $113 per person. Tickets for children age 2-12 range from $32 to $64 per person, depending on the aforementioned parameters. And tickets for kids age 0-23 months range from free to $22 per person.

Learn more about this fantastic train excursion by visiting the official website for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad . Follow the Facebook page, here .

And for a whole other way to enjoy this train ride, think about purchasing a package trip: Ride A Train Into The Wilderness And Then Explore 13 Ziplines And 8 Skybridges On This Adventure In North Carolina !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Trips

Travel the historic Great Smoky Mountain Railroad to discover the stunning Nantahala Gorge! Join us for a breathtaking journey through the Smoky Mountains. From your train car, wave “hello” to the rafters heading down the river at Nantahala Outdoor Center. The Nantahala Gorge Excursion stays at Nantahala Outdoor Center for an hour, which allows you to stretch your legs, get a bite to eat, and go shopping!

For even more savings, book NOC’s Rapid Transit package and add some adventure to your train ride with Nantahala Fully Guided Rafting!

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Nantahala Train Seating - What to choose - Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

• United States    
• North Carolina (NC)    
• North Carolina Mountains    
• Bryson City    
• Bryson City - Things to Do    
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

We took the Tuskasegee River trip and sat in the Harper train car. First-class service was... read more

The train ride was a little over priced to go to a small area or town for about an hour and ride... read more

Nantahala Train Seating - What to choose

There have been complaints about the view from the first class car on the Nantahala Gorge trip. One needs to do their homework - and I'm here to help. As you are making online reservations, they give you a seating chart online to pick your seats. On the screen it has WEST to the left of the screen and EAST on the right. If you would be standing at the EAST portion looking WEST, you will want seats on the left hand side of the seating chart. As an example - the MacNeill car, you would want table A, C, E, G, I, K, M. This side of any car will see the River more often. We were on the MacNeill car and it was spacious and the attendant ANDY was extremely pleasant and personable. We enjoyed the trip. Those that complained about the view didn't call the railroad and do their homework.

We had an open air car. Absolutely love it! We boarded at 10:00 and pulled out at 10:30. Our conductor gave us a history lesson during our travel, which was very interesting to say the least! Beautiful scenery, the river, lake, valleys and mountains! 1 hour layover at the Outdoor Center to eat lunch. You can either pre buy your lunch or eat at a stand by they train on the layover. We did the prepaid box lunch which was a chicken salad sandwich, chips, cookie and a bottle of water.

Super fun! We did the moonshine tour and meet some cool people. Layover spot was cool at NOC. Outdoors was so pretty there. Not a lot of scenery on the ride but fun trip for sure!! The host in our car was so good!! She did a great job!!!!

We did the wine tasting your. It was fun. Steve B and Andy we're fun the entire trip. But they went out of tthere way for me and didn't even know how they made my day on this trip. I somehow did the reservation incorrect and had my son sitting at a different table, not even knowing how important this trip was, I have terminal cancer and this is my last family vacation which I never told them, but they worked it out so we could sit together. The kindness they showed that day was fabulous. They could have said to bad but never did. And did it just to help accommodate my family out of kindness. I recommend this event highly and I have to say Steve B and Andy we're funny and kind. Wine was good, lunch delicious. Thank you for having such a capable staff.

We had a fabulous trip in August, 2021 with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad! We purchased first class tickets for the Nantahala Gorge excursion. Our car, the MacNeill, was temperature controlled. The lunch was good lunch and we were given some tokens. Steve B was the host in our car and was absolutely beyond fabulous. We was very outgoing, funny and very knowledgable. We learned so much about the history of the area. We highly recommendation this fun experience.

depending on which seat you took, we were in the crown cars, Palm Royal/Royal Palm, the seats on the left beginning the trip, you see nothing but some of the fontana lake and Kudzu, after switching seats with the couple beside us on the return trip, you can see the river/rafters and more of the lake. We stopped at the Nantahala Outdoor center for a one hour lay over. August 20, 2021, most folks did not wear masks, but we wore our masks in the shops in the layover since it was extremely crowded. Water in the river was 48 degrees per our conductor on the train. The attendant in our car got into an argument with another co-worker from another car twice in front of the occupants including my wife and myself. I mentioned this to her, she didn't apologize for her actions. I thought this was extremely poor judgement and blamed it on the other girl and this may be the case. However, she was attentive to everyone's requests and very nice to all the customers on her car. The argument should have been moved elsewhere, however, decent trip, steam engine broke down, had to use diesel engine. Crown cars were extremely cold with AC, windows would not open.

Book an Unforgettable Railway Experience on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a wonderous place that’s perfect for having one-of-a-kind adventures. But across the national park from Gatlinburg awaits adventures on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

The railway journey takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes on the North Carolina side – places you can’t easily reach by car. No other option in the Smokies allows you to see so much scenery up close with just a few hours of your time.

Embarking on a whistle-stop tour of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad starts in Bryson City, North Carolina. Chug alongside cascading rivers, cruise along deep gorges, and ride past charming mountain towns .

The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad truly caters to every tourist budget and adventure level. There’s also a Hollywood movie set to check out along the way.

About the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

Until the late 1800s, Appalachia was cut off from the rest of the growing United States. People who lived off the land and made everything by hand were suddenly introduced to comfortable fabrics, lamps, and other items considered “luxury” to backwoods residents.

Building a railroad through the rugged Smokies was no easy feat as prisoners were tasked with laying rails and blasting through rocks to do it. The railroad saw success in the early 1900s, but the railroad wasn’t too safe.

Another rail boom came during World War II when the tracks were used to build the Fontana Dam in North Carolina. The dam played a crucial role in World War II by powering both aluminum production for aircraft and the top-secret Manhattan Project research on the atomic bomb.

As technology moved forward, more roads were built and automobiles became the main form of transportation. The railroad struggled to stay on track and stopped passenger rides in 1948 after 64 years of service. Freight traffic stopped in 1985.

North Carolina leaders purchased the land where the Murphy Branch of the Western Carolina Railroad rolled and, in 1988, the railroad was resurrected as a tourist attraction.

Even during its heyday, the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad was never as successful as it is today and it’s estimated that more than 200,000 passengers travel on it each year.

Getting to the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Depot

All GSMR departures leave from Bryson City, North Carolina, which is located near the southern entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Cherokee.

If you’re coming from Gatlinburg, you’ll drive along Newfound Gap Road for 47 miles. From Ashville, you’ll drive 65 miles. If you’re coming from Atlanta, that’s a 166-mile drive.

A special parking area for train guests is right behind the station. To arrive at the correct parking location, use 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC 28713, in your GPS.

What to Expect on a Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Ride

Depending on the time of year and the size of seasonal crowds, you’ll have different options to choose from – starting with the type of train.

Both the Nantahala Gorge and Tuckasegee River routes offer steam and diesel-powered engine rides. The steam engine has a rich history and is one of just two of its kind left in operation. The diesel train brings faster speeds and more power to the scenic journey.

Seating Options

Next, you can choose what type of seating you’d like. Each train offers coach, crown, and first class, with the option of an open-air gondola car. Ultimately, you’ll need to consider your preferences when it comes to the following:

• If you want climate control, some cars don’t have A/C in the summer (but do have ceiling fans).
• If you want a meal served in the car; also, what quality of meal you want (restaurant style or grab-and-go or none) matters.
• If you’re traveling with children, some cars are for only for adults 21 and older. Look for the Uncorked car on each ride if you like sampling wine or the Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience , which is a first-class-only experience.
• If you want the best views, you’ll have to pay for more than a coach class.
• All tickets come with restroom access, padded seats, and assigned seating. When you book the ticket, you’ll pick your seat.

You’ll also get free access to the Great Smoky Mountain Trains Museum with each ticket. It features a collection of more than 7,000 Lionel engines, cars, and accessories, a kid’s activity center, and more. 

Every ride takes at least 3.5 hours, but full-day options are also available. Ticket prices increase in October when fall foliage is at its peak, but it’s well worth the extra few bucks.

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad Routes

The railroad goes full steam ahead when it comes to options for rides on the railway. You can even parlay a train ride with another activity, like rafting, with one ticket purchase.

There are many popular options offered during the year and the Tuckasegee River Excursion and the Nantahala Gorge Excursion are offered the most.

Tuckasegee River Excursion

The Tuckasegee (tuck-uh-SEE-jee) River Excursion covers 32 miles round-trip over four hours. One of the best parts of this adventure is the stop in Dillsboro, where you can shop and splurge on unique food options. You’ll get almost 90 minutes to explore this charming town.

Along the way, you’ll pass through the Cowee Tunnel, a passageway built by prisoners and the scene of the worst disaster on this line in history.

You’ll also pass the disaster scene of the Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones movie The Fugitive . The train crash was staged (but real), and if you’ve seen the movie, the landscape looks much the same today — with the prisoner bus still resting in pieces on the track.

TRAVEL TIP: You can see the train wreck from the road alongside the tracks, but only when the leaves are off the trees. Otherwise, it’s obscured from plain view unless you’re on the train ride.

Nantahala Gorge Excursion

This four-and-a-half-hour adventure starts in Bryson City and brings views of Fontana Lake before heading to the heart of the Nantahala National Forest. You’ll get a one-hour layover alongside the river (30 minutes in December) but surrounded by nature instead of the charming shops of Dillsboro.

If you’re looking for the exact location of the layover point, it’s at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, 13077 US-19, Bryson City, NC, 28713.

Special Events on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad loves a good holiday theme as much as any place in the Smokies.

Around Easter, look for the Bunny Hopper Express . This is usually a two-day event around Easter where the layover is focused on Easter activities for adults and kids. Buy tickets early, as these will sell out quickly.

Plus, are you really a train line if you don’t have your iteration of The Polar Express Train Ride ? These specialty trips run from early November through the end of December.

Tickets are available as of the first of each for the NEXT holiday season. Even with three rides each night, these can sell out as well.

Dining on Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

First-class passengers are treated to a full meal with a staff member attending to all their needs throughout the meal. Limited bar service is also available.

Open-air gondola cars have meals for brunch or lunch that include a sandwich or comparable main dish with a side and dessert; think something like you’d buy at a deli.

If you’re in a coach or crown class, you can pre-order a boxed lunch with your ticket or choose to eat before the trip or in Dillsboro (if you’re taking the Tuckasegee River Excursion).

Picnic baskets and coolers aren’t allowed on the train, but you can always order food onboard if you choose.

Railroad Ride & Other Tour Combos

Outdoor lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to experience the best of the adventure companies and the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad. One ticket can get you two experiences, allowing riders to a full day of their journey.

When booking tour combos, please note you’ll need to take the Nantahala Gorge Excursion’s morning route.

Raft & Rail

This popular combo has been enthralling guests for almost 40 years. The train leaves Bryson City and arrives at the gorge. You’ll then take an eight-mile whitewater ride with an expert rafter onboard to help navigate.

Lunch and showers are provided before heading back to Bryson City. This adventure is available from April through October and must be booked by phone. That number is 1-800-872-4681.

Rail & Trail

This adventurous journey takes you from the rails to the trails, but don’t worry about long hikes. You’ll sit back and enjoy the ride deep into the woods on a Waterfall Jeep tour lasting two hours. Along the way, you’ll explore waterfalls, wildlife, and the famed Appalachian Trail.

A deli lunch comes with the ticket. Book by phone at 1-800-872-4681.

Tarzan Trail

You could call this one the Ride & Ropes excursion. After taking the train through Nantahala Forest, you’ll arrive at Wildwater’s Nantahala Canopy Tours . More than a dozen ziplines await all experience levels along with eight sky bridges. You’ll see all the way to Clingman’s Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Note the age and weight restrictions before booking. Adults can weigh 250 pounds max, with children 10 years and older weighing 70 pounds or more.

How much are tickets for kids?

It helps to know what is considered a “kid” at every Smoky Mountain attraction. At the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, adult tickets are for any person 13 and older. Children aged 2-12 have a discounted ticket price. Some seating classes will charge for kids less than two years old, but others allow them to ride for free.

As noted above, first-class sections are only for those 21 and older. Also, check the Hot Deals section of the website or call 800-872-4681 to ask about specials for kids first.

What about severe or winter weather concerns?

This is an important note for anyone taking a Great Smoky Mountain Train excursion. Newfound Gap Road (U.S. Highway 441) through the Smokies closes for inclement weather often, especially in winter. That will not stop the train schedule, however.

You are responsible for getting to the train station on time. Choose alternate routes beforehand. Try to use I-40 as much as possible, even if it’s a longer route. At least it will be open.

Those with tickets for GSMR rides should remember to check road conditions in Tennessee and North Carolina  before heading out.

Can I reserve a car for a private event or a large group?

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad loves to cater to large groups (20 or more) and will even give a discount. Call 1-800-872-4681, option 3 to learn more. You can also rent out a car for Private Caboose Parties .

Special discounts are available for military members, front-line workers, and North Carolina residents in Jackson, Swain, Graham, Haywood, and Macon Counties.

Book a Ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

A ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad can be an unforgettable experience, so make plans to book a trip soon. Book your train rides early, as they can sell out quickly. The ride is in so much demand that a new steam engine is expected to debut in 2026.

What is particularly nice about taking a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is that you get to see a whole new section of the Smokies, along with the potential to see the Blue Ridge Mountains and Balsam Mountains.

So book your trip, relax, and enjoy a memorable ride on the railroad. From scenic views to historic sites to quaint towns, these rides offer something for everyone.

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Nantahala Train Adventures

Nantahala train adventures – nc, great smoky mountain railroad – train, raft, zip and jeep packages.

See the Nantahala River and Fontana Lake by train when you add a Great Smoky Mountains Railroad trip to your outdoor adventures in the Smokies. It is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the beauty of the area. Your trip will begin in the morning in Bryson City, NC at the train depot. A two-hour rail excursion ensues, complete with a trip over the famous Fontana Lake Railroad Trestle and continues up the Nantahala gorge where you’ll watch rafters and boaters play on the river. A picnic lunch is provided.  Nantahala Train Adventure prices start at $32.00.

Bryson City NC Train Adventures For the Whole Family

You have three adventure package options for your afternoon: add a rafting trip  down the Nantahala River, add a full length zipline canopy tour, or add a backroads Jeep ™ tour exploring the Nantahala Gorge area. Option 4 is to remain on the train, enjoy a layover by the river for an hour and then return on the train that afternoon back to Bryson City. All our railroad packages meet at the train depot in Bryson City and include transportation from the train to your activity and transport back to the depot after your trip. Also includes use of our changing rooms with hot showers and lunch.

Share This Trip

See the Nantahala River and Fontana Lake by train when you add a Great Smoky Mountains Railroad trip to your outdoor adventures in the Smokies. It is a great way for the whole family to enjoy the beauty of the area. Your trip will begin in the morning in Bryson City, NC at the train depot. A two-hour rail excursion ensues, complete with a trip over the famous Fontana Lake Railroad Trestle and continues up the Nantahala gorge where you’ll watch rafters and boaters play on the river. A picnic lunch is provided. Read more…

Raft & Rail

A family Classic, the Raft & Rail combines two of the areas iconic experiences into one seamless adventure. After your scenic train ride up the Nantahala gorge, you’ll take a fully-guided trip down the 8 miles of playful Nantahala whitewater!   Visit the Nantahala River Rafting to learn more about the playful Nantahala River.

• Minimum Age: 7 years or 60 lbs.
• Intensity Level: Exciting but not strenuous. No previous whitewater experience needed, All rafts fully guided
• Trip Length: Approximately 6 hrs.
• Meals: Lunch on Train included
• Equipment Furnished: Raft, paddle, PFD, helmet and paddling jacket if needed
• Season: 5 days a week in the Spring; 7 days a week in Summer & Fall
• Meet at Bryson City Train Depot

Rails & Trails

Add a backroads Jeep ™ Tour trip in our custom-outfitted Jeeps ™ . Learn area history while looking at spectacular waterfalls, great views, and the Appalachian Trail after your scenic train ride to the top of Nantahala Gorge.

• Minimum Age: 40 lbs.
• Intensity Level: Relaxing. Fully guided with driver. No 4WD roads used

Tarzan Train

Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in an open air car viewing the Nantahala Gorge, enjoying lunch and then explore the 13 ziplines and 8 sky bridges of our Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tour! Learn all about your canopy tour options here on the   Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours page.

• Minimum Age: 8 years Canopy Tour, 4 years KidZip
• Intensity Level: Exciting but not strenuous.
• Trip Length: Approximately 6 hours (3 hours on the Canopy Tour)
• Meals: Lunch on train included
• Equipment Furnished: Harness, Helmet and Gloves

Take a ride on the popular Great Smoky Mountains Railroad from Bryson City across beautiful Fontana Lake and up into the Nantahala Gorge. Enjoy a 1 hour layover by the river.  This is a great option for multi-generation groups to spend part of the day together, some stay on the train and some raft, zip or jeep tour.  Prices based on Standard Open car seating.

• Minimum Age: None
• Intensity Level: Very relaxed
• Trip Length: Approximately 4 1/2 hours
• Meals: Can be purchased on the train

Add a backroads Jeep ™ Tour trip in our custom-outfitted Jeeps ™ . Learn area history while looking at spectacular waterfalls, great views, and the Appalachian Trail. Ask for an alternative route if you have been on this tour before!

• Trip Length: Approximately 2 hrs.
• Season: Mid-March thru Octover

Turn your trip into .

Turn your trip into a package., zip & raft package.

What’s Included In This Package

• Nantahala Fully-Guided Raft Trip, 3 hours
• Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tour, 3 hours
• Available April through Oct.
• Plus taxes and fees
• Cannot be combined with other offers
• All activities can be done in one single day or split over two days, your choice!

Nantahala NC Lodging

The Top Summer Activities Near Bryson City, NC

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Steam of the Smokies

Experience the thrill of riding behind the steam engine as you travel through…

Experience the thrill of riding behind the steam engine as you travel through the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, including Fontana Lake, Nantahala Gorge, and the quaint town of Dillsboro

Explore the Smoky Mountain on the Steam Train

Bryson City, NC, is home to the historic Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, with its steam locomotive sure to instill a feeling of nostalgia and excite the child at heart with gentle excursions through the Smoky Mountains. The #1702 locomotive dates back to 1942, where the engine’s construction was an official commissioned WWII Steam Engine plan. It is of the world’s largest engine class and is one of two remaining in the United States. This converted oil burning engine began its year restoration process in 2015 RE-debuting in 2016 and delighting passengers year after year. For diesel-powered train rides, click here.

Where Would You Like to Go?

Nantahala gorge train excursion.

Take a train ride along side the beautiful Nantahala River on the Nantahala Gorge Excursion! Departing from Bryson City, this 4½ hour roundtrip excursion carries you 44 miles to the Nantahala River Gorge and back again arriving at our…

Tuckasegee River Train Excursion

Enjoy a relaxing ride through quiet countryside on your way to small town life in western North Carolina on the Tuckasegee River Excursion. Departing from Bryson City, this 4 hour excursion travels 32 miles round-trip to Dillsboro and back…

Steam of the Smokies on the Fontana Trestle

Train special events, uncorked - a rail and wine experience.

Passengers will enjoy a full service All-Adult First Class ride in our First Class cars with a private attendant and plush, well-appointed dining seating. A narrator will accompany the ride to present each pour to guests and share knowledge…

Smoky Mountain Beer Run

Join us for a delightful adults-only specialty train excursion, known as the Smoky Mountain Beer Run! This unique journey offers great music, delicious beer, tasty food, and unforgettable memories. Departing from our Bryson City Depot, the…

Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience

“Shine and Dine” on the railway! We cordially invite you to hop on board The Carolina Shine, GSMR’s All-Adult First Class Moonshine Car! We will be proudly serving handcrafted, triple-distilled, craft moonshine. Some of the smoothest…

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a 1¼ hour round-trip passenger excursion that comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North…

More Things To Do in Bryson City

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Nantahala National Forest

Appalachian trail.

The Appalachian Trail winds through Bryson City and Swain County, and can be accessed…

Explore the deep history and culture of Bryson City, Western North Carolina and the…

Health & Wellness

Our rejuvenating health and wellness spas and packages are the keys to achieving true…

Arts & Entertainment

Immerse yourself in Bryson City, NC’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene…

Explore Cherokee

Explore Cherokee North Carolina, home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indian…

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Reach new heights in the Great Smoky Mountains by enrolling your child in a Youth…

5 Scenic Fall Train Rides

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore the outdoors in Pennsylvania and there’s no better way than a foliage train ride, so all aboard! Sit back, grab your camera, and enjoy the fall views on the most scenic train rides in PA.

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The Best Fall Train Rides in PA

1. lehigh gorge scenic railway.

Ride the rails on a vintage coach built as early as 1917 into the colorful, scenic views of the Lehigh Gorge State Park on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway . In September, the narrated 70-minute, 16-mile round-trip ride follows the majestic Lehigh River over bridges, through Glen Onoko, and into the Lehigh Gorge State Park. From Sep. 30-Nov. 5, enjoy a 45-minute fall train ride through gorgeous scenery on the railway’s Autumn Leaf Train excursions.

2. Colebrookdale Railroad

Ride the Colebrookdale Railroad , and view the vibrant colors of fall in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. For the best view, take the two-hour, round-trip journey of the Autumn Splendor Fall Foliage ride on select dates, Sep. 13-Nov. 19. Make the adventure extra special reserving a spot on select excursions featuring ice cream sundaes, beer & bratwurst, a Bloody Mary Brunch, or a late afternoon wine tasting!

3. Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad

Board the Oil Creek & Titusville Railroad fall foliage train ride, Wednesdays through Sundays Oct. 1-15 for a relaxing, three-hour, round-trip excursion through the Oil Heritage Region and view nature’s colorful display in Oil Creek State Park. Reserve your tickets today before they are sold out!

4. Northern Central Railway of York

New Freedom

Enjoy the beauty of fall in southern York County on select dates in October on the Northern Central Railway of York , a mainline in operation since 1838. Ride to Glen Rock (1 hour), Hanover Junction (2 1/2 hours), or Howard Tunnel (3 1/2 hours) on a diesel- or steam-powered engine – your choice! Your conductor and brakeman will tell you about the history and growth of the towns and villages you pass along the way.

5. Rockhill Trolley Museum

Rockhill Furnace

Immerse yourself in fall foliage and photograph historic trolleys on Oct. 7 at the Rockhill Trolley Museum for its biggest event of the year, the Fall Spectacular. Their fully operational fleet of cars will be out and operating all day, including the fan favorite Liberty Liner!

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You might also like: All Aboard for Fall Foliage

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Package and Save this Spring with the Railway Getaway Package

All the staples to Make a Grand Trip the Grandest – train, lodging and meals – one easy way to book a vacation to the canyon. Make your spring grand!

Make a Grand Trip the Grandest This Spring!

All aboard to the Grand Canyon!

Stay Next to the Train Station in 3-Diamond Comfort

Grand Canyon Railway Hotel – 3-Diamond comfort, indoor pool, charismatic bar, walking distance from downtown and Route 66.

Your Own Private Rail Car

Ride like a baron – take your group in a private rail car

See One of the Seven Wonders

Standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon is life-changing. The train is the grandest entrance to the Grand Canyon.

Make a Grand Trip the Grandest

The historic Grand Canyon Railway departs daily from Williams, Arizona to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Enhance your Grand Canyon experience with an entertaining train ride featuring western musicians and cowboy characters on vintage rail cars. You can plan a whole vacation – we offer many packages that include lodging at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel and inside Grand Canyon National Park. Plan your adventure today!

All Aboard for Fun!

Since 1901, the Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel has been taking passengers on a fabled journey to the heart of one of the seven wonders of the world. Grand Canyon Railway is more than just a mode of transportation: it’s a trip back in time on lovingly restored rail cars with entertaining musicians and the antics of cowboy characters. Out your window, the terrain changes from high desert to prairie, prairie to pine. It’s a view that’s ever-changing until you come across a view so brilliant, it could very well change you.

Package and Save 10% on the Railway Getaway Package

All the staples to Make a Grand Trip the Grandest – train, lodging and meals – one easy way to book a vacation to the canyon. Perfect for spring break travel!

Departing Daily from Williams, AZ

The train departs daily at 9:30 a.m. Mountain Time (except during November/December when it leaves at 8:30 a.m.) and returns to Williams at 5:45 p.m. (except during November/December when it returns at 4:45 p.m.). Enjoy more than 3 hours at the canyon as the train drops you right in the Historic Village at the South Rim.

6 Ways to Ride

Explore each class of train service. Lovingly restored to their former glory, each class is distinctly unique.

Charter Your Own Private Car

The Railway offers private charters. Choose your car(s) – you get the whole space for your private party.

Entertaining

Enjoy a Wild West Shootout before the train departs. Then, keep your eyes open for bandits…. Enjoy the tunes of the West during the ride.

Stay Walking Distance from Downtown and Route 66

Riding the rails to the canyon is just one part of an unforgettable Grand Canyon experience. Whether you need lodging at both ends of our line or you’re driving an RV, Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel will take great care of you and even your pets! Our hotel and RV park are located adjacent to the historic Williams Depot and a couple blocks from downtown Williams and “The Mother Road” – Route 66. Plus, with a variety of Grand Canyon vacation deals to choose from, we’ll also save you money in the process.

The AAA 3-Diamond Grand Canyon Railway Hotel

The 298-room 3-diamond Grand Canyon Railway Hotel offers convenient lodging right next door to the train station. Enjoy an indoor pool and a location that’s walking distance to downtown and Route 66.

All Aboard on The Polar Express

Travel on a magical train ride to see Santa at the North Pole. The Polar Express departs this winter. Does the bell still ring for you?

Grand Canyon Railway RV Park

Adjacent to the train depot is our 124-site RV Park – walking distance to downtown and Route 66.

Historic Williams Depot

Built in 1908 the Williams Depot has sent off trains for more than a century and is an attraction unto itself. It’s now the ticket counter, a retail shop and coffee house.

Discover Offers & Packages

Find the perfect offer or package for your Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel adventure!

Departing Daily from Williams, Arizona

About 3 hours from Phoenix or Las Vegas, getting to Williams is easy.

Phoenix to Grand Canyon Road Trip

Here’s a suggested way to see the Grand Canyon state, originating from the Phoenix area.

Williams, Arizona is located off Interstate 40. The famed Route 66 runs right through downtown.

LA to the Grand Canyon Road Trip

If you’re traveling from the West Coast, here is an itinerary to help with your planning.

Planning Resources

Make the most of your trip to the grandest of canyons. Here are resources to help.

Travel by RV

The Grand Canyon Railway RV Park is an ideal place to stay if you’re traveling in an RV.

Join Us #GrandCanyonRailway #XanterraTravel @GCRailway @XanterraTravel

• Tuckasegee River Excursion
• Train Schedule
• Steam Powered
• Diesel Powered
• Nantahala Gorge Excursion
• Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience
• Boxed Lunches
• Raft & Rail
• Rail & Trail
• Tarzan Train
• KidZip Train
• Serene Relaxation At Stonebrook Lodge
• Private Caboose Party
• THE POLAR EXPRESS™
• Smoky Mountain Beer Run
• Bunny Hopper Express
• Map & Directions
• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Model Train Museum
• 722 Rebuild Blog
• Southern Highlands Attractions
• Health & Safety Tips
• Andrews Valley Rail Tour
• Weather and Road Closures

Join us for Uncorked! This unique Rail Line and Wine experience will fuse the adventure of railroading with the love of good wine and good company.

About This Trip

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On Your Plate

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45 Mitchell St Bryson City, NC 28713

• Categories BBQ 'n Brews Bunny Hopper Express Diesel Moonshine Experience Nantahala Gorge Polar Express Smoky Mountain Beer Run Steam Sunset Tuck Tuckasegee River Uncorked

Ticket fares subject to 7% Historic Preservation Fee. Schedules, fares, motive power, equipment, seat selection, and meals are subject to change without notice. We guarantee the class of service you select. You will be notified if a change in schedule or motive power affects your reservation. Payment in full at booking by major credit card is required to finalize a reservation. You may 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. Within 5 days of the departure, the reservation becomes nonrefundable. You may 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.

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Last updated: February 7, 2024

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150 South Washington Avenue Scranton, PA 18503-2018

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