Smokies Guide
Your online resource for the Smoky Mountains
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: A Historic Journey Through the Smokies
The history of the Great Smoky Mountains is deeply tied to the American railroad. Today, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR) remains one of the finest ways to step back in time, re-live Appalachian history, and take in the natural beauty of Western North Carolina from a unique vantage point.
Headquartered in historic downtown Bryson City, NC, this living heritage railway offers year-round scenic excursions along river banks, through mountain tunnels, and across majestic trestles.
🚂 Scenic Train Excursions
Whether powered by historic steam or classic diesel locomotives, GSMR offers two flagship round-trip routes through the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains:
Nantahala Gorge Excursion
A 44-mile, 4.5-hour round trip that follows the Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers toward the breathtaking Nantahala Gorge. Passengers enjoy a 1-hour layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) for sightseeing, dining, and outdoor relaxation along the river.
Tuckasegee River Excursion
A 32-mile, 4-hour round trip that winds along the peaceful Tuckasegee River to the charming historic town of Dillsboro, NC. Highlights include passing through the historic Cowee Tunnel and a 1.5-hour layover in Dillsboro to explore local artisan shops and dining.
🎉 Unforgettable Seasonal Events
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad hosts a celebrated lineup of family-friendly themed events throughout the year:
PEANUTS™ The Great Pumpkin Patch Express
Autumn brings Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Snoopy aboard! Families enjoy a storybook train ride to the Great Pumpkin Patch, where kids can pick their own pumpkins, meet characters, and enjoy fall activities.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
The premier holiday attraction of the winter season! Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers are served hot cocoa and treats while reading along with the classic story on their way to the "North Pole" to meet Santa.
Seasonal Foliage Excursions
From spring mountain laurel and rhododendron blooms to brilliant autumn foliage across the canopy, seasonal train rides highlight the changing landscapes of Western North Carolina.
🎟️ Choosing Your Seating Class
GSMR offers multiple seating options tailored to comfort and budget preferences:
First Class
Ride in climate-controlled, historic dining cars featuring large windows, comfortable seating, personal car attendants, and a complimentary meal served onboard.
Crown Class
Climate-controlled cars with large picture windows, cushioned seating, and a souvenir tumbler with refill privileges.
Open Air Gondola
The ultimate choice for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts! Features open-air seating for unobstructed, 360-degree views and fresh mountain air.
Standard Class
Classic enclosed vintage cars with windows that open for fresh air—the most budget-friendly option for family travel.
📍 Directions & Visitor Information
The train depot and museum are located in the heart of downtown Bryson City, NC.
Driving Directions from Gatlinburg, TN
- Take US-441 South through the National Park toward Cherokee, NC.
- Turn right onto US-19, then left back onto US-441 South toward US-74.
- Take US-74 West to Exit 67 for Bryson City.
- Turn right onto Veterans Blvd, right onto Main St, and left onto Everett St.
- Turn left at Mitchell St—parking for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will be on your right.
💡 Visitor Information & Contact Details
Address: 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC 28713
Toll-Free Phone: (800) 872-4681
Official Website: www.gsmr.com