Tales from the Trails

Explore Smoky Mountain travel ideas with stories to inspire your Bryson City…

Explore Smoky Mountain travel ideas with stories to inspire your Bryson City vacation.

A Bryson City Summer Vacation - It's All You've Ever Wanted

Is there anything more quintessential than a summer vacation? School is out, the sun stretches days longer and longer and everywhere you look, lush greenery can be found. Surrounded by nature’s best playground, the Great Smoky Mountains, Bryson City is a treasure trove of summer adventure. From…

Read More

Tower Above the Smokies at Clingmans Dome

One of the most common questions we get asked here in Bryson City is, “where do I find the best views?” Here are the details about one of our favorites. Stretching to an impressive 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. On a rare clear day, you…

Read More

Appalachian Trail Section Hikes Near Bryson City North Carolina

Experience the Appalachian Trail with a Section Hike The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic lands of the Appalachian Mountains. The Bryson City, Swain County, section of the A.T. rises to spectacular summits — including the 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome…

Read More

Journey Through History on the Road to Nowhere

Here in Bryson City, we are fortunate to be home to many entry points to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, each offering unique access to the stunning wilderness of Western North Carolina. Many stories could be told about these paths that lead you to adventure, but there is one in…

Read More

Make Spring Sensational in Bryson City

When spring arrives in the rolling mountainsides of Bryson City, North Carolina, our wooded wonderland comes to life. Our downtown eateries, breweries and boutiques throw their doors open wide to let in the spring sunshine. After a long winter slumber, the many wildflowers of the Great Smoky…

Read More

Enjoy the Beauty of Winter Along Bryson City’s Hiking Trails

Winter in the mountains is most associated with staying indoors, snuggled up by a roaring fire as the cold and snow whip through the treetops. Did you also know, though, that winter is one of the best times to get out and explore the many wonderful hiking trails that crisscross through the Great…

Read More

Celebrate the Season of Holiday Magic in Bryson City

Experience a true holiday wonderland in Bryson City, North Carolina. TH E POLAR EXPRESS ™ Train Ride comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit to the North Pole. Thousands of twinkling lights come to life on the downtown…

Read More

Romantic Getaway Ideas in the Great Smoky Mountains

Bryson City, North Carolina has long been a favorite destination for couples. Whether it's a chill weekend with your favorite plus one in a remote cabin or an active nature-based getaway, Bryson City hits the spot. Experience a new place together and turn the heat on your romance way up. So pour…

Read More

Nantahala Gorge - America's Favorite Whitewater Playground!

Nantahala Gorge, Fun for all Ages and Activity Levels! There are exciting activities for all ages and experience levels here in Nantahala Gorge. Active to easygoing adventures include: whitewater rafting, kayaking & canoeing, zip lining, hiking, biking, fly fishing, horseback riding, jeep tours…

Read More