Great Smoky Mtn National Park

The Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Great Smoky Mountains

Woman Ziplining
Woman and Dog Hiking
Biker Overlooking Fontana Lake

Welcome to Bryson City!

We Are Open For Visitors!

Bryson City was spared from Hurricane Helene storm damage and is open for visitors. Our shops, lodging, restaurants and attractions are all open. Allow us to welcome you to Bryson City and Swain County - get ready to explore!

Nestled in the heart of the Smokies, Bryson City is your perfect escape for rest, relaxation, and adventure. With its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this charming, laid-back destination offers fresh mountain air, wide-open spaces, and a chance to reconnect with what matters most.

Here, you’ll find the best of both worlds: thrilling outdoor adventures and serene moments of tranquility. Explore scenic hiking trails, take in majestic mountain views, or enjoy a leisurely ride on the iconic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Discover the pristine waters of Fontana Lake, the exhilarating rapids of the Nantahala River, and a vibrant downtown filled with unique shops and eateries.

Just one hour west of Asheville and three hours north of Atlanta, Bryson City is a hidden gem—off the beaten path yet brimming with unforgettable experiences. Far from the hustle and bustle, it’s the ideal spot for your next mountain getaway.

Make Bryson City your basecamp for adventure and relaxation—where every moment feels like a breath of fresh air.

Choose Your Adventure!

With an abundance of public land, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, there’s so much of the outdoors to explore around Bryson City: hiking, waterfalls, whitewater rafting, train excursions, Fontana Lake, fishing streams, and many more family-friendly things to do.

Adventures For Every Season

No matter the season, there is always something to do in Bryson City. Anything from rafting to hiking to train rides, we've got your outdoor adventures covered!

Stories from the Smokies

Upcoming Events

Video Gallery

No matter the season, there is always something to do in and around Bryson City. Anything from rafting to hiking to train rides to a small town Christmas, we’ve got your outdoor adventures covered!

Explore the Fly Fishing Capital of the South

Located in the midst of natural mountain stream settings, Bryson City, North Carolina's geography is primarily National Park or National Forest. Protected mountains surround our natural rivers and streams, making Bryson City one of the greatest fly fishing destinations with cold trout-filled waters in pristine settings.