Nantahala Outdoor Center is the nation’s largest outdoor recreation company. Over a million guests visit NOC annually to embark on a diverse collection of more than 120 different river and land-based itineraries, learn to kayak at NOC’s world-renowned Paddling School, travel abroad with NOC’s Adventure Travel program, test the latest outdoor gear and shop at its LEED-certified flagship retail stores or enjoy NOC’s resort amenities such as its three restaurants and multi-tiered lodging.
Elk were reintroduced to the Great Smokey Mountains National Park beginning in 2001. In the neighboring town of Cherokee, you'll see elk often at Oconaluftee Visitor Center. You can also take a trip to the Cataloochee area of the park and enjoy a nice day trip from Bryson City.
Remember, these are wild animals and you should keep your distance. It is recommended you stay at least 50 yards from the elk.
With 53 miles of track, two tunnels and 25 bridges, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will take you on a memorable journey through a remote and beautiful corner of North Carolina. Ride with us into river gorges, across valleys and through tunnels carved out of majestic mountains.
The Railroad offers a variety of scenic, round-trip excursions departing from Bryson City. Trips range from 3 ½ hours to a full day of fun and adventure.
Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine said it best – “With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and world-class whitewater at its doorstep, Bryson City is the perfect base camp for big adventure. The Tuck flows right through town, and the Appalachian Trail, Nantahala River, Fontana Lake and Tsali singletrack are just a stone’s throw away.”
Bryson City is centrally located in the middle of Western North Carolina’s vast outdoor playground, a great spot for dozens of fabulous day trips.
GO OFF-ROAD
The Wayehutta OHV Trail System near Western Carolina University is a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to enjoy a true mountain ATV experience in the Great Smokies. This 28 mile ATV trail is managed by the Smoky Mountain ORV Club and the US Forest Service. It utilizes old logging roads and rail beds in the mountains for hours of great outdoor fun.
BICYCLING & MOUNTAIN BIKING
Bryson City is located in the midst of sixteen great bikign trails in the North Carolina mountains. From beginners to advanced riders, these mountain trails provide for a great way to explore the mountains.
WHITEWATER RAFTING
Bryson City is located near four rivers that provide the chills of some of America's most popular rafting locations. The Nantahala River is among the most popular rivers for whitewater rafting in the United States. Featuring both Class II and Class III rapids, the river's popularity is due to it being suitable for most everyone from little ones to grandparents.
BOATING
You'll find close access to two mountain lakes near Bryson City that will offer great fun on the water or some great fishing. Fontana Lake is 26 miles long. Cheoah Lake is almost 10 miles long but provides for some great fishing!
ZIP LINING
You can literally soar through and even above the trees when you take part in a zip line adventure. Zip Lining provides a unique perspective of the North Carolina mountains as well as some breathtaking good times!
DINING
Whether you want some fast or an elegant dinner try one of the Franklin area's great eateries. Enjoy home cooking where the locals go, Sunset Restaurant or the Normandy. Caffe REL and Root & Barrel offer more upscale cuisine. You can also enjoy great BBQ at Fat Buddies, Haywood Smokehouse and Willy's or catch the game on more than a dozen flat screen TVs at Mulligan's.
RESOURCES
Below are some great websites to help you learn about all there is to do in and near Bryson City, North Carolina!
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