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Rail Adventures

All Aboard For Train Excursions in the Smokies!

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad train excursions depart from downtown Bryson City and take passengers on journeys across valleys and through river gorges in the spectacular Great Smoky Mountains region. One of the best ways to take in the natural beauty of Bryson City and Swain County is by taking a train excursion.

These round-trip excursions in the beautiful western North Carolina mountains offers a wide array of ever-changing lake and mountain views, fantastic landscapes and whitewater scenes. Choose a box lunch while onboard the train, or check out the menu selections in the First Class and Premium cars, or visit a restaurant at your stopover destination.

​Looking for an authentic local experience? Try the Uncorked Wine Excursion or the Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience.

Most trains depart in the morning with the round trip excursion lasting approximately 4.5 hours. See the full schedule.​

Special Event Train Excursions

Carolina Shine Moonshine Experience

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…

Spirits on the Rail

Spirits on the Rail

Hop aboard our new Bourbon Train Spirits on the Rail. This is a journey like no other where guests will enjoy three exquisite bourbon drinks paired with a chef-prepared four-course meal. All of this while taking in the breathtaking scenery…

Sunset Tuckasegee River Train Excursion

Sunset Tuckasegee River Train Excursion

Experience the breathtaking magic of a North Carolina sunset and revel in the brilliant fall colors on the Sunset Tuckasegee River Train. Admire the serene countryside and trace the meandering path of the Tuckasegee River to the charming…

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride

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…