Board These 5 Trains In North Carolina For A Memorable Experience

In North Carolina, taking the 'scenic route' is always the best option. Between North Carolina's picturesque mountains, rolling hills and valleys, and babbling streams and rivers, the best way to enjoy the views is to go the old-fashioned route - and take a train. No matter the season, these five scenic train rides in North Carolina will leave you in awe of the unparalleled beauty of the Tar Heel State.

1. Nantahala Gorge Excursion

Offered through the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, the Nantahala Excursion departs from Bryson City. For four and a half hours, you'll ride along the beautiful Nantahala River, hear Appalachian tales, and venture across Fontana Lake. After all the excitement, you'll be able to relax at the Nantahala Outdoor Center during an hour's layover. It's one of the best day train rides through the mountains in North Carolina. Get a quick look at this fun train ride:

2. Tuckasegee River Excursion

Also offered through the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is the Tuckasegee River Excursion. You'll depart from Bryson City, and on your four-and-a-half-hour journey, you'll travel through beautiful North Carolina countryside, roll through the Cowee Tunnel, and even pass by The Fugitive movie set. The ride stops in historic Dillsboro for about an hour, where you'll be able to explore shops, find goodies, and grab a bite to eat. It's one of the most fascinating scenic train rides in North Carolina. See what it’s like to ride on this route:

3. Moonshine Experience

Traveling along the Great Smoky Railroad's Nantahala Gorge Excursion, this train ride is for adults only. Situated in a first-class cabin car, guests are served the triple-distilled Midnight Moon moonshine. It's not just tasty beverages, but truly interesting history lessons you'll get as well. Learn about the thriving economy of bootlegging in Appalachia, and read about Swain County's Major Redmond, one of the most famous moonshine outlaws of the 19th century. The ride only runs at select times during the year. Get your tickets on the GSMR website.

4. New Hope Valley, Triangle Train

Just thirty minutes outside of Raleigh, you can have an authentic historic experience aboard this open-air train. The New Hope Valley Railway offers excursion rides on vintage equipment at the North Carolina Railway Museum. It's one of the best train trips in North Carolina. The railway also hosts seasonal events like Halloween and Santa Trains. After your ride, be sure to stop by the North Carolina Railway Museum. Find the latest expeditions on the New Hope Valley Railway Facebook page. Learn more about the New Hope Valley train:

5. Tweetsie Railroad

Tweetsie Railroad is a family-owned and operated Wild West Theme Park in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. This is perhaps the most unique passenger train in the state! Read more at the Tweetsie Railroad website.

Have you experienced any of these scenic train rides in North Carolina? Tell us about your expedition in the comments! Book a trip to North Carolina and ride on some more charming train rides.