On Saturday, September 6th, 2025, the Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society and Museum will sponsor a steam train excursion on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This is a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of Western North Carolina while riding the rails behind a steam engine in vintage passenger railroad cars.
The #1702 locomotive dates back to 1943. The engine's construction was an officially commissioned WWII steam engine plan. It is of the world's largest engine class and is one of two remaining in the United States.
The one-day excursion will cover most of the operating trackage of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. The track follows the route of the former Southern Railway's Murphy Branch Line, established in 1891, with its five percent grade and many bridges. Our scenic steam excursion takes us from the historic depot in Bryson City, NC, through the beautiful countryside of Western North Carolina, into the breath-taking Nantahala Gorge surrounded by the majestic Smokies, and back to Bryson City. Much of the route hugs the banks of the Little Tennessee and Nantahala Rivers. It crosses Fontana Lake on a trestle spanning 780 feet 100 feet above the lake.
Passengers ride in comfort in FIRST CLASS, CROWN CLASS, TOURIST COACH, or OPENAIR cars. All classes offer seating in classic antique restored passenger cars. There are restrooms throughout the train.
FIRST CLASS: Cars are climate-controlled and feature large windows and lounge-car seating. Includes lunch options. CROWN CLASS: Cars offer large windows and climate control for passenger comfort.
TOURIST COACH CLASS: Cars have ceiling fans and windows that open and close for fresh air viewing.
OPEN-AIR COACH: Cars are great for picture-taking and "experiencing" the ride and scenery. Passengers have two options for arrival at the Bryson City Train Depot: Ride a chartered tour bus out of Johnson City, TN (Liberty Bell Middle School), or drive directly to Bryson City, NC, if that is more convenient. Schedule for passengers.
Arrive in Bryson City, NC by 11:00 am
Board Train 11:15am
Train Departs 12:01pm
Arrives back to Bryson City 4:30 pm.
TICKETS:
FIRST CLASS: Ticket price $185.
CROWN CLASS: Ticket price is $126/adult and $98/child [2 -12] .
TOURIST COACH CLASS: Ticket price is $110/adult and $88/child [2-12] .
OPEN-AIR COACH CLASS: Ticket price is $112/adult $87/child [2-12].
All excursion tickets include free admission to the Smoky Mountain Lionel Train Museum near the Bryson City Depot. The museum boasts a collection of 7,000 Lionel engines, cars and accessories, and an impressive operating layout and children's activity center.
MEAL OPTIONS:
BOX LUNCH: $16.00. Includes sandwich, Ms. Vickie's Kettle chips, Grandma's chocolate Pecan pieces, and crunchy fresh celery.
CONCESSIONS CAR: Sandwiches, drinks, chips, and snacks will be available for purchase on board.
BRING YOUR OWN: A small cooler is acceptable if you wish to bring food with you.
Tickets and pre-purchased meals must be ordered online by credit card at http://www.wataugavalleynrhs.org/. Click on the EXCURSIONS link. There's nothing like riding behind steam! Steam excursions sell out quickly. Order soon so you don't miss out! The excursion runs rain or shine. Every effort will be made to maintain an on-time schedule.
The Watauga Valley Railroad Historical Society Museum assumes no liability due to passengers not arriving on time at the Bryson City Depot.
Questions about the trip or to order tickets? Go to www.wataugavalleynrhs.org, or email wataugavalley@gmail.com
Submitted by Mike Tilley