Loading the Train in Bryson City

If you head due west on US 74 from Asheville all the way to Bryson City, you will find the departure station for the scenic Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The town sits just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The excursions offer a choice of steam or rail and two routes. We chose the Nantahala Gorge 44-mile route that takes about four hours. You could choose to take the trip to Dillsboro. Be prepared to purchase tickets well in advance for the fall foliage season.

You may choose to include on your trip a visit to nearby Cherokee that also has many attractions. We chose to drive from Raleigh and stay in Bryson City. Other attractions in the area include Maggie Valley and Lake Junaluska if you are on a more extended vacation. You’re also close to the end of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the only highway entrance into the park.

Bryson City

Charleston Inn Bryson City

Train Station in Bryson City

We were not of the age nor agility to take advantage of kayaking on the river, but we did see a lot of them during our lunch break at the outdoor center. It is a scenic ride anytime of the year, but it is at the peak in the fall foliage season. Of course, you will need to plan the peak since it varies from year to year and according to altitude. You’re in the foothills on this trip but not up in the mountains. Scenic railroads have grown in popularity, but some struggled during the epidemic. GSMRR survived and has prospered.

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Bridge at the Nantahala Outdoor Center

Kayaks at the Nantahala Outdoor Center

Former Jackson County Courthouse

One of the overlooked (pardon the pun) sites is the Jackson County Courthouse that sits high on a hill overlooking the charming little town of Silva. They have done a magnificent restoration on the 1914 Courthouse. The small town of about 2,500 has 25 bars and/or restaurants which may be explained by the fact that it’s only six miles from Western Carolina University.

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