The Great Smoky Mountain Railway Tours

The Appalachian Mountains have bee a vacation destination for decades. The majestic beauty of the lower part of the Appalachians, the Great Smoky Mountains, has been viewed by millions of visitors. The roads around the mountains offer spectacular views, but to visit the back country via rail is a experience of a lifetime. The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers five tours that will spark interest in any traveler. Each tour is unique and is planed with a specific route that will detail scenery and wildlife in a way that many visitors by car have not seen. The fares for these tours range between $36 and $44. Children under two ride for free. The tours last from one half to four and a half hours depending on the duration you wish to be on the train. Each tour route is individualized, showcasing spectacular scenery and emphasizing the best of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The Tuckasegee River Excursion is a 34 mile round trip between the city of Dillsboro and Bryson City, North Carolina. The train will roll along the banks of this river for the duration of four hours. Along the way the passengers will ride in the dark as the train rolls through the 836 foot Cowee tunnel. The train will arrive in Bryson City and will have a one half hour layover. Here the passengers can depart the train and visit the many shops, restaurants, and museums the city has to offer. The train follows the same route back to Hillsboro, but going the opposite direction gives the visitors a chance to see the scenery in a new light.

Another popular tour is the Nantahala Gorge Excursion. Completely different than the river trip, this train tour goes for four and a half hours from Bryson City to Nantahala River Gorge. On the way to the gorge you will cross Fontana Lake. The train will rush a long 100 foot-high trestle bridge that will thrill both old and young alike. The train travels along the river and through the gorge where the passenger can view the steep rock rolls and craggy landscape. There is a one hour lay over at the Nantahala River where passengers can disembark and tour the local shops and museums.

The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad offers themed tours as well. The Polar Express is a popular Christmas run where the passengers drink hot cider and chocolate while singing Christmas carols. The train's staff is decorated in holiday attire and a good time is had by all. Another themed tour is the Dinner Murder Mystery Excursion. The passengers will have their meal on the train and try to figure out a whodunit mystery with actors and the other passengers. The most elegant outing for the railroad is the Gourmet Dinner Train. You are asked to wear dressy casual and deviance from that attire will you sitting at the station. It is an adult only run and alcohol will be available. The gourmet four course meal costs around $75.00 per person and gratuity is not added in.

No matter what tour you take, seeing the Smoky Mountains by rail is a breath taking and exciting experience for the whole family. Reservations for large groups can be found online, but usually walk ups for couples and families are never discouraged.