Posted in North Carolina
September 13, 2015
Board These 6 Trains In North Carolina For An Unforgettable Experience
In North Carolina, it’s always a great option to take the scenic route. Between lush mountains, rolling valleys, and roaring rivers, sometimes the best way to view it all is go the old-fashioned route and take the train. With beautiful fall foliage in the near future, you’ll want to hop on board these six trains.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Offered through 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 the excitement you'll be able to relax at the Nantahala Outdoor Center for an hour layover.
Also offered through the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is the Tuckasegee River Excursion. You'll start in Bryson City and on your four and a half hour journey you'll travel through beautiful western, NC countryside, pass through the Cowee Tunnel and pass by The Fugitive movie set. The ride stops in historic Dillsboro for an hour. You'll be able to explore shops, find goodies, and grab a bite to eat.
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 beverages, but some interesting history lessons you'll get as well. Learn about the thriving economy of bootlegging in the Appalachia, and read about Swain County's Major Redmond, one of the most famous moonshine outlaws of the 19th century. The ride runs through Nov.1st and early departure trains are served breakfast. Get your tickets here.
With fall approaching, visiting a pumpkin patch is a necessity. Do something unique and different and take the kids on the Peanuts Pumpkin Patch express. Operating through the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, children and families will love the fun-filled events of hearing the narration of "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" while riding on the train. Once you reach your destination, take a picture with Charlie, Lucy, and Snoopy. Find the perfect pumpkin and enjoy other fun events like campfire marshmallows, bouncy house, hayrides, and trick or treating.
Just thirty minutes outside of Raleigh you can have a historic experience on this open-air train. The train ride takes passengers through scenic woods. There are also special events like Halloween and Santa Trains. After your ride, stop at the North Carolina Railway Museum.
tweetsierailroad.com
Tweetsie Railroad is a family owned and operated Wild West Theme Park in Western, NC. One of the best parts about Tweetsie is hopping aboard the train and twisting and turning through the mountains. It's about to get extra spooky in October when the Ghost Train comes out to play.
Have you experienced any of these train rides in North Carolina? Tell us in the comments!
