Bryson City is a small town nestled in the Smokies. It's ranked as one of the best outdoor towns in America. Hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, canoeing and kayaking are all nearby.
The Tuckasegee River runs through Bryson City and flow into Fontana lake just outside the town. The Nantahala River, one of America's most popular whitewater rivers, is only minutes away. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right at Bryson City's back door. Tsali mountain biking area is nearby. Nantahala National Forest is nearby.
The Great Smoky Mountain Railway has a depot in Bryson City. Ride the rails over Lake Fontana and through the Nantahala River Gorge.
Deep Creek is a popular camping area. When it heat's up in the summer, it's a great place for tubing.
Things to do in Bryson City
Number one for your family visit to Bryson City is enjoying the great outdoors. You can be an active participant in many outdoor activities or you can passively enjoy the natural beauty from a cabin or vacation rental.
Hiking
You can hike year around, but if you go out in cold weather, be prepared. There are many hikes in the area.
Whitewater Rafting
Family whitewater rafting runs mid-March through October. The peak rafting season is in the summer, but spring and fall can be a great time to raft.
If you have younger kids or are beginners, family rafting on the Tuckaseigee River is a great option. It's warmer and a little milder. Minimum age is age 4.
If you are looking for bigger whitewater, the Nantahala River is also just 15 minutes away. The Nantahala is colder and rougher, but still family-friendly. Minimum age to raft the Nantahala is age 7.
Great Smoky Mountain Railway - Bryson City
The Great Smoky Mountains Railway is one of the Smokies most popular attractions. Trips from Bryson City ride through the Smokies, over Lake Fontana, and through the Nantahala Gorge. There are a variety of trips.
They also offer trips from Dillsboro. These trips ride along the Tuckasegee River to Bryson City.
Other Bryson City Activities
Other activities available include horseback riding, mountain biking, playing on Fontana Lake, jet boat rides. The Cherokee Reservation is about 15 minutes from Bryson City.
Places to Stay
Mountain cabins, vacation rental homes and family friendly Country Inns are the most popular places for families to stay in and around Bryson City. There are a few motels in Bryson and more can be found in nearby Cherokee.
Cabins run the gamut, from small and simple to large and elaborate. Most are in a great mountain setting. Vacation rental homes are similar.
The Fryemont Inn and the Hemlock Inn are two great mountain inns that are family friendy.
Bryson City is also a great place to camp. There is great camping near Deep Creek and along the Tuckasegee River.
Nearby Attractions and Activities
Cherokee, Dillsboro, the Nantahala Gorge, Nantahala National Forest, and Fontana Lake, are all just minutes from Bryson City.
The Blue Ridge Parkway, gem mining in Franklin, and the Pisgah National Forest can be reached in just a few more minutes.