A Journey Through Time: The History of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

The rhythmic clickety-clack of the rails, the mournful whistle echoing through the valleys, and the majestic sight of a train winding through lush mountain landscapes – there's an undeniable romance to railroad travel. In Western North Carolina, this romance is alive and well thanks to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad (GSMR). More than just a tourist attraction, the GSMR is a living testament to the region's rich history, from its rugged beginnings to its present-day role as a beloved gateway to the Smokies.

From Necessity to "Two Streaks of Rust": The Early Years

The story of the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad begins long before it became a popular excursion. Its roots lie in the Murphy Branch of the Western North Carolina Railroad, an ambitious project conceived in the late 19th century to connect the isolated mountain communities with the wider world. Construction began west of Asheville in 1880, a monumental undertaking that involved digging, filling, and blasting through 116 miles of challenging terrain to reach Murphy.

Completed to Dillsboro in 1883 and Andrews by 1890, this railroad was a lifeline. It brought in new goods and ideas, replacing homespun with "factory cloth" and opening up mercantile opportunities. Passenger traffic boomed in the early 1900s, with multiple daily trains running between Asheville and Murphy.

However, the construction came at a high human cost. Much of the labor was carried out by convicts under harsh conditions, and tragic accidents, including drownings in the Tuckasegee River, marked its early history.

The railroad also played a crucial role in the region's logging industry. While the GSMR itself wasn't primarily a logging railroad in the same vein as some smaller, dedicated timber lines, the broader rail network facilitated the transport of vast amounts of timber out of the mountains. This era, while economically significant, also led to extensive clear-cutting of the old-growth forests.

The Murphy Branch saw its heaviest use during World War II with the construction of Fontana Dam in the early 1940s, as thousands of carloads of cement and equipment were transported by rail to the site.

The Decline and a Resurgence for Tourism

As the 20th century progressed, the rise of the automobile led to a decline in passenger rail traffic. Southern Railway, which had gained control of the Murphy Branch, discontinued all passenger service by 1948. Freight traffic continued for several more decades, but by 1985, Norfolk Southern (Southern Railway's successor) began to abandon sections of the line.

Recognizing the historical and scenic value of the railway, the State of North Carolina stepped in, purchasing the Dillsboro to Murphy tracks to prevent their destruction. This pivotal move paved the way for a new chapter.

In 1988, a group of private investors formed the Great Smoky Mountains Railway, leasing the track from Dillsboro to Andrews. Their vision was to transform the historic line into a scenic passenger excursion railway. The initial Dillsboro to Nantahala route quickly became popular, drawing tourists eager to experience vintage train travel through the stunning mountain landscape. In late 1999, American Heritage Railways, owners of the famous Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, acquired the GSMR, solidifying its future as a premier tourist attraction.

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad Today

Today, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates from its main depot in Bryson City, North Carolina, located on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It carries approximately 200,000 passengers annually, offering a variety of memorable excursions:

• Nantahala Gorge Excursion: This popular 4.5-hour round trip takes passengers 44 miles along the rushing Nantahala River, across the historic Trellis Bridge over Fontana Lake, and into the Nantahala Gorge. Passengers often enjoy a layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), where they can watch whitewater rafters or explore the facilities.

• Tuckasegee River Excursion: This 4-hour round trip winds through picturesque valleys, passing by old movie sets (like "The Fugitive") and charming small towns like Dillsboro.

• Special Themed Rides: The GSMR is famous for its seasonal and themed excursions, including the magical Polar Express™ Train Ride during the holidays, as well as various wine, beer, and gourmet dinner trains.

• Steam and Diesel Power: Depending on the schedule, passengers can experience the nostalgia of a historic steam locomotive or the power of a modern diesel engine.

Beyond tourism, the GSMR also continues to transport freight, maintaining a connection to its industrial past. The Smoky Mountain Trains Museum in Bryson City, included with train tickets, offers a fascinating collection of model trains and railroad memorabilia, further enriching the historical experience.

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is more than just a ride; it's a journey through the heart of Western North Carolina's history and natural beauty. It stands as a vibrant reminder of the ingenuity and perseverance that shaped this region, inviting visitors to relive a bygone era while creating new memories amidst the timeless splendor of the Smokies.