7 North Carolina Train Trips With The Best Scenic Views
North Carolina’s railways wind through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Southeast. You’ll roll past mountain peaks, river valleys, and forests that change with every season.
These train trips offer a relaxing way to soak in the state’s natural beauty without worrying about traffic or directions.
1. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad – Bryson City
Rolling through deep gorges feels like stepping back in time.
You’ll find it at 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC 28713.
This railroad takes you on a 4.5-hour journey through the Nantahala Gorge, where towering cliffs and rushing waters create drama at every turn.
You can also choose the Tuckasegee River Excursion, a 4-hour ride with a stop in historic Dillsboro for lunch and shopping.
2. Tweetsie Railroad – Blowing Rock
Cowboys and train robberies come alive on this Wild West adventure.
It’s located at 300 Tweetsie Railroad Lane, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.
A 3-mile ride carries you through the Blue Ridge Mountains with live entertainment that kids absolutely love.
The vintage steam locomotive chugs along while actors stage thrilling showdowns, making history feel real and exciting for families.
3. New Hope Valley Railway – Bonsal
Central North Carolina’s forests unfold in a peaceful hour-long escape.
You’ll find it at 3900 Bonsal Road, New Hill, NC 27562.
Known as the Triangle’s Train, this 4-mile journey takes you through pine and hardwood groves that feel worlds away from city life.
Seasonal events like pumpkin patches and holiday lights add extra magic to an already charming ride.
4. North Carolina Transportation Museum Train Rides – Spencer
Train history comes to life at one of the South’s largest rail yards.
It’s located at 411 South Salisbury Avenue, Spencer, NC 28159.
Short excursions around the museum grounds let you experience vintage locomotives up close while learning about North Carolina’s railroad heritage.
The turntable demonstrations are fascinating, showing how massive engines were rotated before modern technology existed.
5. Craggy Mountain Line – Asheville
Quick trips through mountain scenery pack big views into short timeframes.
Check current operations at Asheville area locations.
This nonprofit offers rides that showcase the Blue Ridge Mountains without requiring a full day commitment.
Perfect for travelers with tight schedules, the excursions still deliver stunning vistas and a taste of Asheville’s railroad legacy.
6. Blue Ridge Scenic Railway – Blue Ridge, Georgia (Near NC Border)
Rivers and state lines blur on this cross-border adventure.
You’ll find it at 241 Depot Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513.
Starting in Georgia, this 26-mile round-trip follows the Toccoa River into Tennessee, passing through landscapes that North Carolina residents claim as their own backyard.
The stop in McCaysville lets you literally stand in two states at once.
7. Saluda Grade Historic Train Trips – Saluda
America’s steepest mainline railroad grade challenges engines and thrills riders.
Check current operations in Saluda, NC 28773.
Climbing or descending this legendary route feels like defying gravity.
The grade’s engineering marvel status draws rail fans from everywhere, and the surrounding mountain views make the technical achievement even more impressive to witness firsthand.
