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Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
2 reviews for Great Smoky Mountain Railroad
I went during "the season" (autumn) so the train ride was a bit more expensive than normal. Old brochures I found in my hotel said there were two locations, but be advised that they have closed their Dillon station indefinitely. Bryson City is the only option.
The route I took started at Bryson City and stopped at Nanthala Gorge, then it turns around and goes back the same way. The train ride was slow (it was a downright crawl at times!) and leisurely. We rode on the open air cars - I recommend these highly. The seats are long benches that face out of the window. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking - mountains, rivers, fields, rapids. After visiting Nanthala Gorge, I'm dying to go white-water rafting now too!
The thing that most bugged me was the complete lack of organization. They only give out tickets right before the train ride, so needless to say, the ticket line can be a major headache. Particularly during the season.
When the passengers lined up to board the train, some of the employees were directing everyone to go to the same place. Several fights nearly broke out when other people were accused of cutting ahead in the line. (A little tip - no one seat on this train ride is better than another. Don't stress if you find yourself in the back of a large crowd.) More efficient crowd control would go a looong way.
Despite all that, I think this is a fun time and a great way to see the Smoky Mountains. If you have kids, you have the option of train rides with a Thomas the Tank Engine theme or Peanuts theme. Cute!
Great ride through the mountains of NC on older trains. It is also a good way to see the "backwoods" of NC. The movie "The Fugitive" was partially filmed here and Dillsboro, NC.
This is a great family trip or for couples. There are many lodging options and lots of other things to do within 25 mile radius.
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