Go For A Socially Distant Ride Through The North Carolina Mountains With The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad
The Smoky Mountains have an allure that attracts millions each year to explore the vistas, the terrain, cool mountain breezes during the summer, and the undeniable hospitality found in the mountain towns in the Smokies. And this summer will undoubtedly be no different – with the exception, of course, of finding attractions that are taking extra precautions to keep visitors (and employees) safe during the pandemic. Recently, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad announced a litany of precautions they’re taking and we couldn’t be happier since the GSMR is one of the most popular activities in western North Carolina for locals and visitors alike.
Ready to venture deep into the Smokies on a socially distant ride this summer? Rest assured, they are making it easy to feel at ease when you visit and/or ride the train.
The 4.5-hour ride travels along the Nantahala River into the gorge and back. Inhale that fresh mountain air as you indulge in mountain and water views that cleanse the soul.
And this summer, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, in response to the pandemic, is limiting capacity in each car to only 50%.
If you've traveled on the GSMR before, then you know this is a major concession on the part of the railroad, but should definitely put visitors more at ease about social distancing during the ride.
There are several routes visitors can select and whether riding in an open-air car or a closed car, the railroad is also requiring all guests to wear masks or face coverings.
Masks will be provided at no cost for all customers and available in a variety of pick-up places, including the ticket booth and onboard the trains.
Other safety precautions found at the GSMR this season include encouraging all guest parties to remain six feet apart when possible. Touchless or low-touch transactions at the ticket booth and gift shops, daily sanitizing of public areas, and more (you can see the entire list here).
Special guidelines are also in place to keep employees safe and ensure that no one is working if they aren't feeling well. You can see that list at the same link provided above.
Ready to plan your socially-distance train adventure?
Learn more and book your excursion online on the official website for the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. You can also give them a follow on Facebook for the latest info.
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Robin Jarvis is a travel writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. Her love for travel has taken her to many parts of the world. She's lived in the Carolinas for nearly three decades and currently resides in Charleston. When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. General questions and FAM tours: rjarvis@onlyinyourstate.com.
