Posted in North Carolina Attractions, Fun Adventures February 05, 2023 by

Ride The Train Into A Mountain Gorge and Zip Line All The Way Out On The Tarzan Zipline Train Adventure In North Carolina

What could be more fun than pairing a train ride with ziplining through the Nantahala Gorge? Most people don’t know about one of the most unique tours in North Carolina. The Tarzan Train from Bryson City allows visitors to ride the train deep into the gorge, disembark, and then zip line in the gorge. This fun adventure is available April through October through the combined efforts of Wildwater Ltd’s Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Here’s what you need to know to plan this fun, family adventure:

The Tarzan Train excursion includes a two-hour train ride through the Nantahala Gorge.
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The fun begins with a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad departing from Bryson City. Enjoy an open-air train car and breathtaking views of the Nantahala Gorge. Watch whitewater rafters on the river and wildlife as you meander through the gorge and cross Fontana Lake on the famous trestle bridge. This is truly one of the most fun things to do in North Carolina.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the train before heading out on a three-hour zip line and North Carolina canopy tour in the Nantahala Gorge.
TripAdvisor/Charles W
The train ride ends at the top of the line deep inside the gorge. From there, you'll transfer to the canopy tour.
Kids age eight and over can join in the fun as long as they weigh at least 60 pounds.
TripAdvisor/BoyMom
And on the special KidZip Train excursion, kids as young as four can take part in the fun.
After ample instruction from the canopy tour guides, you'll meander through a Smoky Mountain forest on eight sky bridges and 13 ziplines.
Facebook/Wildwater Ltd
Soar through the treetops while still smiling about the fun train ride into the gorge.
TripAdvisor/BoyMom
Remember to wear closed-toe shoes, as the woods can be a tricky place. This is especially true high up in the air!
Facebook/Wildwater Ltd
If there are family members who don't want to take the canopy tour, they can simply remain on the train and ride back into Bryson City. The whole group can meet up later in the day. In all, the Tarzan Train and canopy tour lasts approximately six hours.
Google Local/Tino Medina
The canopy tour portion of the Tarzan Train excursion requires that all guests be at least eight years old. They'll also need to be between 60 and 250 pounds. You can book your adventure and learn more on the event website or by calling the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad at 800-872-4681. You can also learn more at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad's website.

Have you enjoyed the Tarzan Train zipline canopy tour in previous years? We’d love to hear all about your fun adventure in the comments!

Still tempted to Google “train rides near me in North Carolina?” Don’t! This roundup of train rides features the most charming and scenic railroad excursions in North Carolina. You’re sure to find a railway near you for your next adventure!

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Address: 70 Falling Waters Dr, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Train Rides and Fun Tours in North Carolina

September 10, 2021
Sarah

How can I find out about other train rides near me in North Carolina?

North Carolina has several scenic railroad excursions, and you'll find them located all across the state. A great resource for train rides in the Tar Heel State is this article which features six different memorable train rides.

What are some scenic train rides in North Carolina?

There are quite a few scenic train rides in North Carolina. Some of the most popular include:

 

Are there any seasonal train rides in North Carolina?

There are quite a few seasonal train rides in North Carolina. For a great time, consider The Santa Train. For over 40 years, the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, North Carolina, has hosted a Santa Train, which is a magical holiday experience. Both kids and adults can get in on the fun during this themed train ride filled with holiday magic. From face painting to holiday crafts, and even a visit from Santa himself, climb aboard this wonderful holiday train in North Carolina!

For more options, check out The Ultimate Guide To Seasonal Activities In North Carolina. This includes information on pumpkin patches, Christmas lights, water parks and more.