There’s no better place in the entire Southeast to witness the fall metamorphosis than in the mountains of the Tar Heel State. Here, residents and visitors alike have a variety of places to seek out colorful hues sweeping across the landscape including the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Smoky Mountains, and the Cherohala Skyway – all of which belong on your bucket list. But if you want a truly immersive autumn experience deep in the wilds where automobiles aren’t an option, book a ticket on this North Carolina train ride to see fall foliage.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad first began passenger sightseeing service in 1988. Since then, the beloved attraction has carried thousands upon thousands of passengers into the North Carolina wilderness.
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The train runs two majors lines. The first follows along the Tuckasegee River and the second delves deep into the Nantahala Gorge.
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In all, the railroad has 53 miles of track, two tunnels and 25 bridges.
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Breathe in the cool crisp mountain air as you absorb the magic of fall from one of the open-air cars. Or select from a closed car with either First-Class or Coach-Class seating. The railroad couldn’t make it any easier when it comes to options to enhance your experience.
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Both the Tuckasegee River and Nantahala Gorge lines will be running fall excursions now through October 31st.
Facebook/Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (Why not try them both while you’re in town?)
Here are the differences between the two experiences: The Nantahala Gorge ride travels 44 miles and lasts 4.5 hours with a one-hour layover along the river deep in the heart of the gorge. Bring a box lunch and enjoy the colors as you dine by the river before heading back to the depot.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The Tuckasegee River excursion travels alongside the scenic river for part of the 32-mile round trip over to the tiny mountain town of Dillsboro. You’ll have 1.5 hours to explore the quaint streets, shops, galleries, and restaurants before heading back to Bryson City.
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
North Carolina is undeniably beautiful in the fall. Why not follow the Blue Ridge Parkway all the way to its southern end - which happens to be about 15 minutes northwest of Bryson City - and then hop aboard the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad as the big finale’ this year?
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Learn more about when the colors are expected to peak in this part of the state, check out the two fall foliage excursions, and book your tickets by visiting Great Smoky Mountains Railroad on the web.
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(Why not try them both while you’re in town?)
Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
Kirk Wester / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images
Have you ever taken this North Carolina train ride to see fall foliage? Share your experiences in the comments and then keep reading to learn more things to do in Bryson City!
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Address: Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA
