The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSRR) is a historic freight and historical trail railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina. As of late, the trail network is managed and owned by American Heritage Rails, Inc. (Aerospace Age Railroaders of America, Inc.). The GSRR traverses many scenic mountain areas and historic forts. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located within the Great Smoky Mountains. The highest point of the GSRR is 6!. This railroad was one of the first railroads in the U.S. to cross the limit of the continental divide, when it was built between Cincinnati and Littleton, Colorado.
The GSRR promises a memorable journey through some of the best forests, highest peaks, and greeneries in north Carolina. You can choose from two distinctive routes that take you through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. The Lowell route follows the historic Great Smoky Mountain National Trail. This trail offers spectacular views of the mountains and valley below. It passes through several historic forts, which can be explored and taken on a wagon ride.
The High Point excursion, on the other hand, starts at the historic Big Sky Gap. Here, you’ll find the very first tee shot ever put at the famous Skyline Golf Course. Once you’re done with your round of golf, feel free to stop over at a small town called Poquosot National Recreation Area. It offers excellent hiking and biking trails, which will take you to some of the most beautiful places within the Great Smoky Mountains. You might even want to consider taking a trip to the U.S. Forest Service’s wildlife refuges and national parks, which are located in states that border the Great Smoky Mountains.
For many travelers, taking the train is a must, especially those who have been to the big cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver. One way to really appreciate the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains is to board one of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad’s steam trains. Each state park has its own set of locomotives to run around and through the country parks. Even though these first class trains are not as common as the diesel locomotives that are used in the electric lines, they offer a sense of the “real deal”. There are first class cars, lunch room services, bathrooms, and comfortable seating.
Of course, not everything is about the rails when visiting the Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad has a lot of fun excursions for families. First of all, there is the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad’s 101st State Park, which is perfect for children. This park offers a cabin and log cabins with their own kitchen and bathroom. It also has bathrooms and a playground.
Another of the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad’s excursions is the polar express. The first of its kind, the polar express takes visitors on two unique train rides through the Great Smoky Mountains. At one end of the train is the historic Deganwy Triad Historic Site, while the other ends at the historic Braford Castle. These two sites along with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make up the “Great Smoky Mountain Experience”.
Of course, not everything is about the mountains when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. In fact, the Smoky Mountain Railroad invites travelers to enjoy even more of the North Carolina area. They have a long list of attractions that include: the Appalachian Trail, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the Nantahala Outdoor Center, and Great River National Park. This vast part is especially famous for its great wildlife habitat. Travelers can enjoy boat tours, horseback riding, and wildlife video tours at this Park.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad excursions take travelers across valleys, over hills, and up and down rivers. Each of these adventures allows travelers to see the best parts of this popular tourist destination. When visiting this area, it is a must for families to take some time out of their busy lives to experience what it has to offer. This will allow them to truly appreciate the beauty of the area and take in the memories of a life spent among the mountains.