www.GSMR.com j 23 - Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

www.GSMR.com
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My Bryson City is
our playground!
_______________________________
Blue Ridge Parkway • Mountain Biking
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Scenic Rail Excursions • Hiking Trails
Downtown Shopping and Dining
Fontana Lake • Motorcycling
Whitewater Rafting 
Arts & Crafts 
GreatSmokies.com
800-867-9246
Home of the 2013 World Kayak Freestyle Championships
America’s Premier Tourist Rail Operator
www.durangotrain.com
•
1-888-872-4607
www.AmericanHeritageRailways.com
There’s nothing more nostalgic or moving than the sound of a train
whistle as it echoes through the mountains. The staff and management of
the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which is owned and operated by
American Heritage Railways, is proud to provide visitors with an
opportunity to experience this spirit of mountain railroading firsthand. If
you’re reminiscing about the past or experiencing the romance and
excitement of rail travel for the first time, we hope you enjoy your trip.
Allen C. Harper
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
American Heritage Railways
Table of Contents
Railfest 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Vacation Packages . . . . . . . 2
Railroad Square
[Bryson City] . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Railfan Shopper . . . . . . . . . . 4
Track Map Route . . . . . . . . . 5
Premier Special Events . . . 8
2011 Excursions . . . . . . . . . 10
Onboard Lunch Menu . . . . 10
Classes of Service . . . . . . . . 11
2011 Special Events . . . . . . 12
Train & Raft
Combo Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Rails Through the
Wilderness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
®2011 Great Smoky Mountains
Railroad. All rights reserved. For more
information about the region call Smoky
Mountain Host for a free travel guide at
800.432.4678.
Vacation
P ackages
• Friday “Wet Your Whistle”
• Saturday Mountain Craft Fair
• Sunday Photo Special Excursion
Every year railroad
enthusiasts and history buffs
from around the world gather
in Bryson City for the Great
Smoky Mountains Railroad’s
Railfest. This year, the 10th
Annual weekend railroading
event takes place September
16, 17 and 18. The fun begins
Friday night with a special
“Wet Your Whistle”
celebration train reception.
Then the following days the
festival offers guests a taste of railroading, food, memorabilia,
storytelling, dance, music, special excursions and events that
happen only once a year.
Motorcars from across America will be brought by their
owners to Bryson City for Railfest 2011, for one day only. In
addition to display vehicles, motorcar rides will also be
available on September 17. Railroads from the present and
the past will be represented by motorcars from the US and
Canada. These track cars were formerly used on railroads to
inspect track and carry track gangs and their tools out to
work zones. The cars are now privately owned and used to
ride on short line railroads nationwide. Various rides on these
unique motorcars will be available during Railfest.
Saturday, September 17, festivities include an authentic
Mountain Craft Fair with close to 50 area crafters and artists
displaying and selling their handmade crafts, pottery and
artwork. Catch the Spirit of Appalachia will present local
entertainment featuring singing, dancing and mountain folk
and bluegrass music. There will be food, vendors, a children’s
talent contest, and a bouncy train for children eight and under.
Sunday, September 18, features a Nantahala Gorge “Photo
Special” Excursion. This eight-hour roundtrip excursion takes
you from Bryson City to Andrews, and includes two photo
run-by opportunities and a picnic lunch. Visitors to Bryson
City will enjoy mountain music with various artists
throughout the day.
Don’t miss this spectacular railroading event, where you’ll
return to a time when the railroad moved mountains and the
short line railroad was a small town’s best friend!
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Bryson City
We’ve designed unique vacation packages to make your
railroad experience both convenient and affordable.
These package prices include Coach Class seating on a
roundtrip train excursion November – December and
admission to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum. Seating
upgrades are available in our Crown and our new
all‑inclusive package First Class cars.
✸ Depot Presidential Suite with
American Heritage Railways
Package includes overnight accommodations for two
adults and a roundtrip train ride with Coach seating for
two adults. Prices start at $311* per couple (all
inclusive). Well‑appointed, loft‑type lodging
overlooking the historic Bryson City Depot and the
Murphy Branch Railroad. Full‑kitchen, dining area,
laundry area, plasma TV with satellite, Wi‑Fi, two
bedrooms (four queen beds) and one-and-a-half baths.
Lodging can accommodate up to six additional adults
or children free of additional charge; just purchase
additional train seating! Available year-round.
✸ Smoky Mountain Dreaming with Sleep Inn
Package includes overnight accommodations for
two adults, continental breakfast bar and a roundtrip
train ride with Coach seating for two adults. Prices start
at $189* per couple (all inclusive), based on summer
rates. Children 17 and under stay free. Available
year‑round.
✸Bed & Breakfast with The Charleston Inn
Package includes overnight accommodations for two
adults, full‑service breakfast and roundtrip train ride
with Coach seating for two adults. $249* per couple (all
inclusive), based on summer rates. Available
March – December.
✸ The Great Smokies Getaway with Microtel Inn
Package includes overnight accommodations for two
adults, continental breakfast and a roundtrip train ride
with Coach seating for two adults. Prices start at $186*
per couple (all inclusive), based on summer rates.
Children 17 and under stay free. Available year‑round.
* Train fares subject to a 4% historic preservation fee.
W
elcome signs entering Bryson City read Uncrowded, Unhurried,
Unspoiled, Uncommon. This small mountain town in the Great
Smokies of Western North Carolina stays true to that still.
Incorporated in 1887, and named in honor of Colonel Thadeus Dillard
Bryson, Bryson City connected to the surrounding region with the establishment
of the railroad. Before long, trains ran daily between Asheville and Murphy.
Bryson City is located in Swain County, which comprises more than
40 percent of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Nantahala River
remains a popular whitewater venue. Fontana Lake boasts the highest dam east
of the Rockies. There are cascading trout streams, biking and hiking trails, and
plenty of restaurants, shops and lodging.
❉ Choo Choo Coffee. Coffee and
Espresso Bar with their own in-house
Coffee Roaster, Chocolates and
Desserts, Gifts for the home and Mtn
Foods. NC-made throws and
bedspreads to keep you warm.
❉ The Cottage Craftsman. The
Cottage Craftsman is a unique Gallery
and market featuring NC artists,
handcrafters, foods and wines.
❉ The Depot Grill. Located on the
Depot Deck – offering pizzas, deli-style
sandwiches, Black Angus burgers and
hot dogs. Sodas, lemonade, iced tea
and water.
❉ Gil’s Book Store. Wide selection of
books, Gifts and Souvenirs. Large
selection of Thomas and Friends
❉ Ice Cream Shoppe. Hand-dipped
ice cream, milkshakes, sundaes, fudge
and candies are sure to tempt your
sweet tooth.
❉ It’s A Girl Thing. Specializing in
“diva” wear for little girls. Clothing,
accessories, and gifts for mom, baby,
and toddler. Sizes infant - 4T
❉ Nannie’s Country Store. Gifts,
collectibles, home and garden seasonal
décor for your home makeover both
inside and out.
❉ Pursenality. Pursenality is a
“unique purse and accessory boutique”
located in downtown Bryson City. They
offer several lines of purses, jewelry
and gifts.
❉ Smoky Mountain Trains Lionel™
Museum. See one of the largest
collections of Lionel™ trains in the
Southeast. Special activities for
children.
❉ The Station Restaurant.
Specializing in rotisserie-cooked meals,
homemade desserts, full bar and
excellent service. Open 8am–9pm.
❉ Storytelling Center of the
Southern Appalachians at
Bryson City. Telling the stories,
preserving the culture, protecting the
history, the art and artistry of the area
known as the Southern Highlands.
Come and listen to the Appalachian
woodworker.
❉ The Whistle Stop Café. Serving
everyone’s favorite breakfast and
lunch. Daily specials, homemade
desserts, lemonade, tea, soft drinks
and shakes.
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To order: 828.488.5200 • 800.872.4681 • www.gsmr.com
A GSMR Hoodie Black, grey, red . . $29.99
L GSMR Logo Pin GSMR logo . . . . $4.99
B GSMR Ladies T-Shirt Lavender . $17.99
C GSMR Mug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9.99
M HO-Scale Train Coach Car
“Bryson City #322.” Maroon . . . . . . $19.99
D GSMR Tall Shot Glass . . . . . . . $5.99
N Dangle Key Chain . . . . . . . . . . . $19.99
E GSMR Short Shot Glass . . . . . . $4.99
O GSMR Snow Globe . . . . . . . . . . $14.99
F Railroad Engineer Cap. GSMR logo.
Adult and youth sizes. Hickory . . . . . $8.99
P 100% Cotton Bandana Imprinted
with “Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.” Navy, red or pink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.19
G GSMR Fleece Throw . . . . . . . . . $23.99
H GSMR Pewter Spoon Collectable,
model train topped spoon . . . . . . . . $5.39
I GSMR Magnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4.99
J GSMR Iron-On Patch Color logo $2.00
K GSMR Pewter Thimble Collectable,
model train topped thimble . . . . . . . $5.49
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Q GSMR Wooden Whistle . . . . . . $5.99
R Passage Through Time: The Murphy
Branch Milepost Guide (Book) . $9.26
S Back of Beyond: The History
of the GSMR (DVD) . . . . . . . . . . $19.95
R+S Book & DVD Combination . . . $20.00
Limited quantities available. Prices
subject to change without notice. The
rates listed in the shipping table are
for United States locations only. UPS
Ground will be used unless otherwise
specified. Additional rates may apply
for UPS next-day or two-day delivery.
$0 – $25. . . . . . . . .
$25.01 – $50. . . . . .
$50.01 – $150. . . . .
$150.01 – $299 . . . .
$299.01 and over . . .
$ 6.00
$ 8.50
$12.50
$15.50
$20.00
Rates good for USA only.
"
From
Asheville,
I-40
From
Cashiers
"
From Franklin
& Atlanta "
Average Driving Times
"
From Chattanooga
I
nterstate 40, the major
interstate in Western North
Carolina, connects to other
major interstates like I-26 from the
South, I-75 from the Midwest, I-81
from the Northeast and I-95,
which runs up the entire
East Coast.
From I-40, take Exit 27 and follow
Highway 74 West to Bryson City,
Exit 67.
From Atlanta, take Highway 441
into the Great Smoky Mountains.
The most scenic route to the
Railroad is the beautiful Blue
Ridge Parkway, connecting the
Shenandoah Valley in Virginia
to the mountains of Western
North Carolina.
The Balsam exit will take you
to Highway 74. Follow Highway 74
West to Bryson City (Exit 67).
All trains depart from
the Bryson City Depot.
GPS / Physical Address:
226 Everett Street
Bryson City, NC 28713
Average Driving Times
From Southeastern Cities
From Western North Carolina Towns
Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
Chattanooga, TN
Columbia, SC
Gatlinburg, TN Greenville, SC
Jacksonville, FL
Knoxville, TN
Pigeon Forge, TN
Raleigh, NC
Winston-Salem, NC
Andrews
Asheville
Balsam
Boone
Brevard
Cashiers
Cherokee
Chimney Rock
Dillsboro
Fontana
Franklin
3:20
3:30
3:00
4:00
2:00
2:20
9:20
2:50
2:20
5:50
3:50
:55
1:35
:40
3:50
1:55
1:20
:20
2:20
:20
:40
:45
Hendersonville
Highlands
Linville
Maggie Valley
Murphy
Robbinsville
Rutherfordton
Sylva
Waynesville
Whittier
1:55
1:25
3:35
1:00
1:20
:50
2:20
:25
:45
:10
All times are approximate. Weather, construction, time of year and scenic interests may affect
driving time. Wear your seat belts and arrive safely.
www.GSMR.com
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American Heritage Railways is assisting José Cuervo in
the operation of a First-class passenger train from the city
of Guadalajara, Mexico to the historic pueblo of Tequila,
Mexico. Enjoy traveling through the beautiful Agave fields
of Jalisco aboard newly remodeled First-class coaches. Once
you are in Tequila you will be guided on a tour of the José
Cuervo distillery that will give you a true appreciation of the
history and culture that is José Cuervo. We invite you to come
experience our new endeavor— “The Tequila Experience.”
www.JoseCuervoExpress.com
One of America’s Top Ten Lionel™ Museums
“A Taste of Italy in Beautiful Bryson City”
Daily Lunch & Dinner Specials
All ABC Permits
Open 11:30 - ’til Everyday
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Santa’s Land
One low admission includes all!
Enjoy exotic and domestic animals.
Ride the Rudicoaster, Santa’s Express,
paddleboats, Ferris wheel and more!
See the magic show and baby bear
feedings. Open May – late
fall. Call for specific dates.
Ask about group rates
and birthday parties.
Show this ad for $2.00 off each admission.
US Hwy 19, 3 miles east of Cherokee, NC
between Dillsboro and Bryson City
828-497-9191 • SantasLandNC.com
Smoky Mountain Trains
Share the Spirit of Model Railroading
Feel like a kid again with a visit to Smoky
Mountain Trains. Located next to the Bryson City
Depot, Smoky Mountain Trains is a model
railroader’s dream. This unique museum exhibits
one of the country’s largest Lionel™ train
collections, including 7,000 Lionel™ engines, cars
and accessories; two impressive operating layouts; a
children’s activity center; and an extensive gift and
toy shop featuring exclusive Great Smoky Mountains
Railroad and Smoky Mountain Trains merchandise.
Admission included with most train excursions.
For non-ticketed guests admission is $9 for adults
and $5 for children.
Parents, be sure to bring your children to the
Smoky Mountain Trains Scavenger Hunt
and receive a special prize!
828.488.5200 • www.smokymtntrains.com • 100 Greenlee St, Bryson City
www.GSMR.com
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THE LONE RANGER®
TRAIN RIDE
June 11 & 12
Bryson City, NC
July 22-24 & July 29-31
800-872-4681 • www.gsmr.com
Tickets $18 per person ages 2 and up
Advance purchase is recommended. Ticket sales are final. Events are rain or shine.
An exciting event with cowboys, a train robbery, western
themed activities, The Lone Ranger playing in the theater,
live musical entertainment, kids’ western wear costume
contest, games, and much more!
TRAIN SCHEDULE
Departing Bryson City Depot to Whittier, NC
Train Rides: 1 hour and 20 minutes
SATURDAy JUNE 11
Departs 11:00am, 1:00pm and 3:30pm
SUNDAy JUNE 12
Departs 1:00pm and 3:30pm
TICKETS
$49* Adult and $29* Child (ages 2-12)
*Fares subject to a 4% Historical Preservation Fee
Book online or call for reservations
www.gsmr.com • 800-872-4681
©2011 Classic Media, LLC. THE LONE RANGER and associated character names, images and other indicia
are trademarks of and copyrighted by Classic Media, LLC. All rights reserved.
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Hop
on
board
Meet Charlie Brown, Lucy & Snoopy.
Children pick their own pumpkin. Enjoy hayrides, live
musical entertainment, storytelling, games, bouncy house,
apple juice, trick or treating, apple bobbing, and more!
And kids, don’t forget to wear
your Halloween costumes.
TRAIN SCHEDULE 2011
Fridays - October 7, 14, 21 & 28.
Departs at 3:00 pm
Saturdays & Sundays
October 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 & 30
Departs 11:30am & 3:00pm
TICKETS
Coach Class: $53* Adults, $31* Child 2-12 years
Crown Class: $66* Adults, $38* Child 2-12 years, $10* Infant
All Trains depart Bryson City Depot
*Fares subject to a 4% Historical Preservation Fee
1-800-872-4681
Reserve online at www.gsmr.com
Great Smoky mountainS railroad
November 4 thru December 24, 2011
the Polar exPreSS
Departs Bryson City Depot
Coach Seating – $39* Adult • $26* Child (ages 2-12)
Premium rates apply to select dates. Upgrades Available
FIRST CLASS
CROWN CLASS
Deluxe cocoa served in
Deluxe cocoa served in
Polar Express Mug with
souvenir tumbler.
shortbread & cookies.
$49* Adult • $36* Child (2-12)
$59*Adult • $41*Child (2-12)
$10* infant (no mug)
$15 infant (no mug)
*Fares subject to a 4% Historical Preservation Fee
All trains operate via diesel locomotive
Call 1-800-872-4681
or visit www.gsmr.com
©2011 PEANUTS Worldwide LLC
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2011 Excursions
Nantahala Gorge Excursion (West Bound)
Departing from Bryson City, this four-and-ahalf- hour excursion carries you 44 miles to
the Nantahala Gorge and back again. Travel
the Little Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers
across Fontana Lake and into the magic of
the Nantahala Gorge. There is a one-hour
layover at Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
for sightseeing or lunch by the river from one
of the many eateries, and just plain relaxing!
D E PA R T U R E S
March 5 – March 26
11:00 am Fridays & Saturdays
April 1 – May 28
10:30 am Tuesday – Saturday
May 29 – October 6
10:30 am DAILY
Oct 7 – October 31
9:00 am & 2:00 pm DAILY
November 1 – November 27
11:00 am DAILY (except Thanksgiving)
December 26 – December 30
11:00 am DAILY
See fares
and seating on
opposite page.
Tuckasegee River Excursion (East Bound)
Departing from
Bryson City, this
four-hour excursion
travels 32-miles
roundtrip to Dillsboro
and back again. The trip includes an hourand-a-half layover in the historic village, where
you’ll find more than 50 shops, restaurants,
bed-and-breakfast and country inns. There is
time to shop snack and visit the many unique
shops before returning to Bryson City. The
Lone Ranger saves the train from bandits in
June, July and August excursions.
D E PA R T U R E S
January 15 – February 26
11:00 pm Saturdays
May 28 & 29
1:00 pm Thursday – Friday
June 14 – July 28
1:00 pm Tuesdays – Sundays
August 2 – 13
1:00 pm Tuesdays – Sundays
OctOBER 3 – 27
12:00 pm Mondays – Thursdays
Reservations require prepayment • MasterCard, VISA, Discover and American
Express accepted • Restrooms are available at depot and onboard • Schedule, price,
motive power and equipment subject to change without notice • Smoking is
prohibited onboard • Dress code is enforced for Special Event Dinner Trains (call for
details) • Service animals only, no pets allowed • $5 parking fee at Bryson City Depot
• All excursions are general seating • All excursions via diesel unless otherwise noted
• Limited disability access (call for more information) • Cancellation or
change fee: $6 per seat (changes must be made and completed within the
2011 calendar year) • No refund within 24 hours of departure • 30-day
cancellation notice required for New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Train
• All fares are subject to a 4% historic preservation fee.
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Choo Choo Chew
on-board lunches
ENGINEER’S
HAMBURGER LUNCH
100% Black Angus Beef Hamburger
with all the trimmings, Chips,
Cookie and Beverage
$9.00 per adult (includes tax)
Available only on Nantahala
Gorge Excursions.
CONDUCTOR’S
HOT DOG LUNCH
Two Black Angus 100% Beef Hot
Dogs, Chips, Cookie and Beverage
$9.00 per adult (includes tax)
Vegetarian option available.
LIL’ CONDUCTOR’S
HOT DOG LUNCH
100% Beef Hot Dog, Chips, Cookie
and Child’s Beverage
$6.50 per child (includes tax)
Vegetarian option available.
Carry-on picnic coolers are
not permitted. After careful
consideration of park policies across
the nation, consultation with health
and safety experts and much
consideration of the welfare of our
guests and employees alike, we do
not allow coolers, food or drinks
on‑board. Special dietary needs
should be addressed with reservation
staff prior to arrival.
Passengers may visit the Conductor's
Car on the Nantahala Gorge
Excursion or the Chessie Caboose on
the Tuckasegee River Excursion for
snack items such as hot dogs,
pretzels, chips, cookies, crackers,
candy, Coca-Cola® products, beer,
wine, and coffee.
2011 pricing
Adult Child Infant
Jan–Sept & Nov–Dec
Coach Seating (open/enclosed)
Crown Seating; First Class (adult only)
Family First Class First Class Open Car (adult only)
$49
$66
$92
$92
$74
$29
$38
NA
$54
NA
$0
$10
NA
$20
NA
October
Coach Seating (open/enclosed) Crown Seating First Class w/dinning (adult only)
First Class Open w/dining (adult only)
$53
$66
$92
$77
$31
$38 NA
NA
$0
$10
NA
NA
Adult Child Infant
Special Events Seating
Lone Ranger
$49
$29
$0
$18
$30
$18
$30
$0
$0
$53
$65
$31
$37
$0
$10
$39
$49
$59
$26
$36
$41
$0
$10
$15
$43
$53
$64
$30
$42
$45
$0
$15
$20
$51
$61
$72
$37
$45
$50
$0
$15
$20
Day Out With Thomas
Single Ticket: Adult & Child VIP/All-Day Pass: Adult & Child
Pumpkin Patch
Coach Class
Crown Class
Polar Express
Coach Class
Crown Class
Family First Class
Train & Raft Combo Trips
Raft n Rail w/Wildwater Ltd. Rapid Transit w/NOC $99
$99
$82
$82
NA
NA
Photo Special
Coach Seating (open/enclosed)
Crown Seating
First Class (limited dining)
$94 $51
$104 $57
$120 NA
$10
$15
NA
Private Caboose
January–September & November
October
$499
$599
Locomotive Cab Rider
$250
New Year’s Eve Gala
Veterans Day
Free for veterans and active military
FREE
Polar Express Premium
Coach Class
Crown Class
Family First Class
Christmas Eve
Coach Class
Crown Class
Family First Class
$135 + tax & gratuity
All fares are subject to a 4% historic preservation fee.
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2011 Special Events
Listed below, please find information on upcoming yearly events with
the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. Please contact our Reservations
Office for more information regarding these events at 800.872.4681,
or visit our website, www.GSMR.com.
January & February:
May 6
Saturdays Only, 11am
(excluding February 26)
Tuckasegee Departures
Opening Season /
Community Day
Hot dogs and music on Depot Deck.
February 12
June 11 & 12
PEANUTS™ “Be My Valentine,
Charlie Brown”
The Lone Ranger™
April 15
The Lone Ranger and his faithful
companion Tonto save the train from
bandits! This hour-and-twenty-minute
excursion features a train robbery and
gunfight, western-themed activities and
live musical entertainment. The Lone
Ranger gives a silver bullet pendant to
each child. This wild west event kicks
off the Lone Ranger’s saving the
Tuckasegee River Excursions from
bandits on select days in June, July and
August. See ad on page 8.
Home School Day
July 22 – 24 & 29 – 31
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Lucy,
Snoopy and Charlie Brown! Kids can
create their own Valentine’s craft and
listen to the narrated story. Make this
Valentine’s Day special with an upgrade
to the dining car for a gourmet brunch.
February 26 & March:
Friday & Saturday, 11am
Nantahala Gorge Departures
Special student rates available on the
Nantahala Gorge Excursion to
home‑schooled children.
April 22 & 23
PEANUTS™ Easter Beagle
Express
Depart from Bryson City to the
Nantahala Outdoor Center for
refreshments, photo opportunities
with Snoopy, the Easter Beagle and
children can seek out bunnies
carrying brightly colored eggs.
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Day Out With Thomas™
For six fun-filled days, Thomas fans
will meet Sir Topham Hatt and ride
the train. This beloved event includes
a 25-minute train ride pulled by
Thomas the Tank Engine. Event also
has live entertainment, petting zoo,
storytelling, video viewing,
Imagination Station and much more!
See ad on page 8.
September 16, 17 & 18
Railfest 2011 &
Mountain Craft Fair
The fun begins Friday night with
a special “Wet Your Whistle”
celebration train reception. Railroad
enthusiasts and history buffs
worldwide will gather for a weekend of
railroad fun! Motorcar rides on display,
storytelling, singing, dancing and
mountain folk music are all part of this
spectacular event. The Mountain Craft
Fair showcases authentic handmade
crafts, pottery and artwork of the
Western North Carolina mountains.
Held next to the Bryson City Depot in
conjunction with Railfest 2011. See
page 2 for more information.
October 1 – 31
October Leaf Season
Western North Carolina mountains
are ablaze with brilliant fall foliage.
View these spectacular fall leaves
from the train — Nantahala Gorge
Excursions depart at 10:30 am until
October 8th, when trains depart at
9:00 am and 2:00 pm daily.
Tuckasegee River Excursions depart
at 12:00 pm from October 4–7, 11–14,
18–21 and 25–28. Coach: Adults $53,
Child $31, Infant Free
New for 2011: First Class Open Car
(Adult only) $77
October 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 21 – 23 & 28 – 30
PEANUTS™ – The Great
Pumpkin Patch Express
Meet Charlie Brown, Lucy and Snoopy,
and select your own pumpkin. Enjoy
hayrides, live musical entertainment,
apple juice, storytelling, bouncy house,
apple-bobbing, trick-or-treating and
fall festivities! Kids, don’t forget to
wear your costumes! Departure times
are 3:00 pm on Fridays and 11:30 am &
3:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
See ad on page 9.
November 4 – 6, 10 – 13, 17 – 20,
22, 23, 25 – 27, 30
December 1 – 4 & 7 – 24
The Polar Express™
The Polar Express™ comes to life
when the train departs Bryson
City for a journey to the North
Pole. Read along with the magical
story and meet Santa. Enjoy
holiday caroling, hot cocoa,
a special treat and a memento
for the children. Daily
departure times vary. See ad on
page 9.
December 1
The Polar Express™
Home School Day
Special student rates available
on The Polar Express™ to
home‑schooled children. See ad
on page 9.
December 31
New Year’s Eve Gala
Ring in the New Year onboard the
New Year’s Eve Gala. Enjoy a
gourmet journey onboard the
train with an evening of dining,
dancing and live musical
entertainment, plus party favors
for everyone! This train boards at
8:45 pm and returns at
approximately 12:30 am.
Welcome 2012 in railroad
style! $135 plus tax
and gratuity.
www.GSMR.com
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Raft & Rail®
with Wildwater
Convenient, inclusive, simple! The original
adventure upgraded for 2011! Child rate includes
a Jr. Guide Adventure Pack. Southern Living agrees
it’s a great trip for families, first-timers, practiced
paddlers — young or old. Travel by rail along the
foothills of the Smokies and up the scenic
Nantahala River Gorge to the top-of-the-line.
Lunch is served before the river trip. With no
waiting, our professional guides share the threehour, eight-mile Nantahala River rafting trip. Hot
showers, photo show, all transfers included. Enjoy
a full day of excitement experiencing two of the
most popular activities in the Smokies with the
original outfitter in the Southeast. Wildwater —
celebrating 40 years of sharing the beauty of the
outdoors..
April – October 2011
Rates: $99 per adult or $82 per child.
Fully guided. Children must weigh at least 60 lbs
or be 7 years old.
New Adventures,
Great
Memories
Raft & Rail© • Jeep® Tours
Rails & Trails • Rafting
Zipline Canopy Tours
Multi-Adventure Packages
Reserve rafting one day and a
scenic train tour the next! Both are
major adventures. Experience the
fun and excitement of whitewater
rafting on the Nantahala River
and/or Ocoee River (full river trip)
and enjoy a complete round-trip
train tour with the Great Smoky
Mountains Railroad. Morning
or afternoon trips with certified
guides in modern self-bailing rafts.
Gemstone mining, horseback
riding, zip lining and vacation cabin
rental reservations are available.
Check our special discount prices.
www.nantahalagorgeadventures.com
carolinaoutfitters.com
Phone 800.468.7238
877-247-5539
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800.872.4681
Rapid Transit with
Nantahala Outdoor Center
A full day of fun! The Rapid Transit Package
with NOC begins in Bryson City aboard the
GSMR on the Nantahala Gorge Excursion. Enjoy
breathtaking scenery and incredible river views
as the train travels along the banks of the
Nantahala River deep into the Gorge and back
to Wesser Station at NOC. Included in the
excursion is a gourmet lunch at Slow Joe’s Café
overlooking the river. After lunch, gear up with
NOC’s professional guides and enjoy eight miles
of splashy rafting fun on the Nantahala River
dubbed the country’s best family whitewater.
This package also includes all the necessary
equipment, a free post-trip photo show of your
trip, hot showers, and all transportation
including a return to Bryson City.
April – October 2011
Rates: $99 per adult or $82 per child.
Fully guided. Inflatable kayaks available on request
for an additional $8 per person.
Next Stop Family Adventure!
Rafting Lake Kayaking Dining Lodging Shopping
k “The Heart and Soul of the South’s Whitewater Scene”
o
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B line
— nationalgeographic.com
n
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www.noc.com
800.232.7238
www.GSMR.com
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— National Geographic Adventure
noc.com
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800.872.4681
800.232.7238
WELCOME
TO NOC!
Nantahala Gorge Excursion riders have an
hour layover at Nantahala Outdoor Center.
While you’re here, we hope you’ll soak up
the scenic beauty of the Nantahala Gorge
and take some time to enjoy one of the
Southeast’s most popular destinations, NOC.
Here you’ll find restaurants, a riverside pub,
retail shops, restrooms, picnic areas and
more. Cross the Founders Bridge, so you can
say you walked the Appalachian Trail!
NOC is America’s largest rafting company
and the place where thousands of guests,
22 Olympians, countless families and
adventurers of all generations have gathered
to experience the great outdoors and the
Nantahala River since 1972. However
you spend your time here, we hope your
experience is memorable and that you’ll join
us again for an outdoor adventure.
POINTS OF INTEREST:
1 Train Restrooms
- Restrooms are
conveniently located close to the train ‘s
“parking spot.”
2 Nantahala Gorge Welcome Center
Find unique gifts and helpful staff who can
help you plan other vacation activities or
simply give helpful area information.
3
Slow Joe’s Cafe & The Pourover Pub -
The best place to grab a quick lunch! Choose
from deli-style sandwiches, Carolina-style
barbecue and more. At night, the riverside
deck doubles as The Pourover, a live music
venue at NOC.
4 River’s End Restaurant
- A full-service
restaurant as only NOC would have it where every seat is a riverside seat! Enjoy
watching rafters, kayakers and splashers at
play on the river as you feast on pizza,
burgers and unique specialties like our
Sherpa Rice.
Memorabilia
Passage Through Time
The new Milepost Guide book, Passage Through
Time, contains 176 pages of stories, pictures and
maps that guide you along the entire Murphy
Branch. It is a story of determination and
perseverance by strong men and women. The
stories are fascinating. The trials and troubles,
unbelievable. This book is about a beautiful part
of rural America.
Back of Beyond
The exciting new DVD, Back of Beyond, explores
the legend of a train that carries the history of the
beautiful Smoky Mountains along its rails. These
mountains were the deepest backwoods of a
forgotten frontier. The railroad was built as an
economic development tool for the whole region
and opened up this last frontier.
Ask your car attendant or visit our gift shop
to purchase this special package.
COMBO SET
BOOK & DVD: $20
5 Outfitter’s Store
- Virtually hanging over
the Nantahala River and stocked with
outdoor gear and apparel of all types,
the Outfitter’s Store is a landmark!
Gear up or take home NOC t-shirts and gifts.
6 Wesser General Store and Fly Shop
Pick up quick snacks, beer and wine.
Anglers will love swapping tales and
getting local tips in addition to useful
flies for Smoky Mountain fishing.
-
www.GSMR.com
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Trails T hrough the Wilderness
The Murphy Branch of the Western
North Carolina railroad delivered
thousands of mountaineers from the
wilderness of their landlocked hills.
A year after iron rails reached
Asheville in 1880, workers scattered to
the west of the city – digging, filling and
blasting an extension of the line that
stretched 116 miles to Murphy.
The iron horse beat riding a wagon,
but in many ways the young railroad
was still primitive. In 1892, a visitor from
Chicago described it as “little more
than two streaks of rust and a
right‑of‑way.” With tongue in cheek, he
told the Chicago Tribune, “When the
wind is just right, the fastest train on the
line, the ‘Asheville Cannon Ball,’ can
make 10 miles an hour.”
Rails changed the way of life for
Western North Carolina residents.
Mercantile business was conducted on
the barter system, with mountaineers
swapping farm produce and other
commodities for a few of the bare
necessities. The iron rails brought a
flood of salesmen who peddled oil
lamps that superceded tallow candles
and New England “factory cloth” to
replace scratchy, uncomfortable
homespun. From door to door they sold
enlarged pictures, jewelry, books, pump
organs, lightning rods, baubles and
doodads.
Passenger business was so good by
the turn of the 20th century that
six passenger trains
ran every
day between Asheville and Lake
Junaluska, and four ran daily
between Asheville and Murphy.
It was not easy to cut this branch
line through the mountains. If not for
the practical, self‑educated engineer
Capt. J. W. Wilson it could have taken
years to accomplish. One of Capt.
Wilson’s most challenging tasks was
the grade on the west side of the
Balsams, steep and curvy, with gaping
ravines. His second obstacle was the
836‑foot Cowee Tunnel through a
shaky mountain west of Dillsboro.
High iron topped the Balsam
Mountains at 3,100 feet, at the time
the highest elevation of any railroad
in the Eastern United States.
The railroad was built by convicts
working under the gun. One of the
most chilling accidents during
construction drowned 19 inmates in
the Tuckasegee River at the mouth of
the tunnel. Crossing the river to work,
the raft carrying the iron‑shackled
convicts capsized and those aboard,
except for guard Fleet Foster and
convict Anderson Drake, died in the
waters. Foster was rescued by Drake,
who stole the guard’s wallet while
pulling him to shore. When the wallet
was found in Drake’s duffel, he was
whipped and put to work in the
tunnel at hard labor instead of
receiving a hero’s honor. Those who
died were buried in unmarked graves
on top of a small hill near the mouth
of the tunnel.
The Murphy Branch experienced
its heaviest business in the early
1940s when the massive
Fontana Dam
was constructed during World War II.
Thousands of carloads of cement,
equipment and other materials reached
the construction site by rail on a spur
line built from Bushnell to Fontana.
In the 1920s, ribbons of concrete
crawled through the mountains, linking
towns together. Passenger traffic on the
Murphy Branch, then owned by the
sprawling Southern Railway System,
began to decline as a result of the
introduction of automobile and bus
travel. Southern discontinued all
passenger traffic on the Murphy Branch
on July 16, 1947, ending 64 years of
service that opened Western North
Carolina to the outside world.
When freight traffic dropped off by
1985, Norfolk Southern closed the
Andrews to Murphy leg of the Murphy
Branch and the State of North Carolina
purchased the Dillsboro to Murphy
tracks to keep them from being
destroyed. By 1988, many entities came
together to form the Great Smoky
Mountains Railway (GSMR), which
began running excursions. Rolling
stock for the GSMR was purchased from
various railroads around the nation.
The Dillsboro to Nantahala route was
one of the most scenic on the Murphy
Branch and the excursion trains caught
on immediately.
Each year, more than of 200,000
passengers enjoy the scenery aboard
the excursion trains. American Heritage
Railways purchased the GSMR in
December of 1999. The Great Smoky
Mountains Railway operates today as
the newly organized Great Smoky
Mountains Railroad with more than
500 excursions scheduled for 2011.
It took 500 convicts to drill and
hack through Cowee Mountain. On
December 30, 1883, 19 convicts
drown when their boat capsized
on the way to work on the
Cowee Tunnel. It is said that
you can still hear their
shackles rattling when the
train passes their graves.
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View a period of 1890’s history from the
American Heritage Railways
From Downtown Bryson City,
the 2-bedroom suite overlooks
the Great Smoky Mountains
Railroad depot. Watch trains
arriving and departing daily
or stroll down the shop- and
restaurant-lined streets.
Accommodates up to 8 people!
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Great Room • Big Screen TV
Wireless High-Speed Internet
Dining Area • Two Bedrooms
Two Baths • Washer & Dryer
800-872-4681
Cozy Rooms • Fireside Dining
Fine Wines & Cocktails
Delicious Breakfast & Dinner
Open April – Thanksgiving
– Since
1923 –
Bryson City, North Carolina
828-488-2159 • 800-845-4879
www.F ryemontInn.com
Reservations, please
www.GSMR.com
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Sunset Farm Cabins
In the heart of it all between
Cherokee, Dillsboro and Bryson City.
Fully equipped, reasonably priced oneand two-bedroom cabins with great
mountain views, satellite TV, free wireless
Internet, with hot tubs on premises.
828-497-2200 • 800-408-4889
www.sunsetfarmcabins.com
Fully equipped vacation homes, chalets & cottages.
Near Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and
Nantahala River and Ocoee River whitewater
rafting. For vacation lodging worldwide:
www.TopChoiceVacationRentals.com
Whitewater rafting & train reservations
as well as lodging!
Dillsboro Inn
Smoky Mountain Getaways
Vacation Rentals
Come visit our front yard.
A river falls through it.
With over 80 vacation rentals, we’re sure
to have just the right home for you!
A Country Inn
in the Great Smokies
Riverfront suites next to waterfall
Within walking distance to town shops.
828-586-3898 • 866-586-3898
146 North River Road • www.dillsboroinn.com
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Packages for train, including
Polar Express, are available
26 Rooms With Authentic Country Furniture
Honest-To-Goodness Home Cooking
Bryson City, NC 28713 • 828-488-2885
w w w. hem lo ck i n n .c om
(866) 586-8058 - Toll Free
www.SmokyMtnGetaways.net
Movie Gallery
orient point
prairie edge
toy box
LLOYD’S ON THE RIVER
Relax in this attractive, 25-room
country inn nestled along the
banks of the Oconaluftee River.
❦
Convenient to both Bryson City and
Dillsboro Railroad depots. Rafting,
The Smokies, tubing and golf are
nearby. Lloyd’s is air-conditioned, has
a swimming pool, cable TV, outdoor
grills, picnic tables & kitchenettes.
Located on US 19, midway
between Bryson City & Cherokee.
Open year-round.
PO Box 429, Bryson City, NC 28713
www.lloydsontheriver.com
828-488-3767 • toll-free 888-611-6872
Bryson City  Walking distance to
downtown shops and train depot. Spacious
4-room suites, each with a unique theme.
Private Entrances  Free Cable & Internet
Private Baths  Jacuzzi Tubs  Fireplaces
Mountain Views  Fully Equipped Kitchens
King or Queen Beds  Large Covered Porches
www.CalhounHouse.com
828-399-9765  828-788-0505
www.GSMR.com
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RIVER ESCAPE INN & SUITES
828-586-6060
248 WBI Drive, Dillsboro, NC 28725
Each Best Western is independently
owned and operated.
Overlook the Tuckasegee River from your spacious room or relax on our
scenic riverside patio. Enjoy deluxe guest rooms, suites, a heated indoor
pool and hot-tub spa, a complimentary hot breakfast bar and an
atmosphere flffllflowing with charm. One block from Historic Dillsboro, NC.
Railroad Tickets Sold Here
w w w.bwriverescape.com
Stay at the Sleep Inn Bryson City Hotel in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
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The Sleep Inn Bryson City is located less than a mile
from the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. We are
just minutes from popular attractions like Cherokee
Indian Reservation, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino,
Western Carolina University and Tail of the Dragon
at Deals Gap.
All guests will enjoy our free hot breakfast buffet,
brand new 32" flat panel LCD televisions, free wireless
Internet and seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
We also offer packages (please book in advance)
or individual tickets (available at the front desk) to
ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, or to go
rafting at Nantahala Outdoor Center.
While you’re here, explore the other nearby outdoor
activities like white water rafting, kayaking, fishing,
boating, hiking, horseback riding and tubing. We are
also just minutes from the Nantahala, Tuckasegee
and Pigeon Rivers.
500 Veterans Boulevard, Bryson City
Off I-40, take Exit 27 to US 74 West. Take Exit 67,
turn right and the hotel is on the left.
866-939-0998 • 828-488-0326
www.sleepinnbrysoncitync.com