Great Smoky Mtn National Park

The Outdoor Adventure Capital of the Great Smoky Mountains

Woman Ziplining
Woman and Dog Hiking
Biker Overlooking Fontana Lake

Welcome to Bryson City!

We Are Open For Visitors!

Far Western North Carolina in the Smoky Mountains, with its counties shown in green on the map below, were primarily spared from Hurricane Helene storm damage and are open for visitors, including Bryson City. Our shops, lodging, restaurants and attractions showcase the best of the Smokies, support the economy of Far Western North Carolina and are eager to welcome you now and for years to come! Our neighboring counties in gray were hit the hardest and are on the path to rebuild, resilient and strong! You can help the hardest-hit areas by donating food or money. Allow us to welcome you to Bryson City and Swain County - we are ready for you! Travel Advisories

Helene travel map late october 2025

Treat yourself to some well-deserved rest and relaxation in Bryson City – a laid-back destination next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with wide-open spaces, fresh air and easy access to nature. Our remote location provides you with plenty of room to roam and the opportunity to connect with friends and family without all the distractions. Whether you crave a fresh-air adventure or a peaceful sojourn, there are a wealth of enticing options. Explore majestic mountain landscapes, scenic hiking trails, spectacular train excursions, a vibrant downtown, the pristine waters of Fontana Lake, and the thrill of whitewater on the Nantahala River.

For your next vacation, consider our less crowded destination - an under-the-radar town that is far from crowds. Located one hour west of Asheville and three hours north of Atlanta.

Christmas & Holiday

The Christmas holiday season is extra special in Bryson City. A drive-thru light show, the Polar Express train excursion, holiday markets, a Christmas parade, and other themed events, you're sure to make the holiday season memorable.

Choose Your Adventure!

With an abundance of public land, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, there’s so much of the outdoors to explore around Bryson City: hiking, waterfalls, whitewater rafting, train excursions, Fontana Lake, fishing streams, and many more family-friendly things to do.

Adventures For Every Season

No matter the season, there is always something to do in Bryson City. Anything from rafting to hiking to train rides, we've got your outdoor adventures covered!

Tales from the Trails

Upcoming Events

Video Gallery

No matter the season, there is always something to do in and around Bryson City. Anything from rafting to hiking to train rides to a small town Christmas, we’ve got your outdoor adventures covered!

Explore the Fly Fishing Capital of the South

Located in the midst of natural mountain stream settings, Bryson City, North Carolina's geography is primarily National Park or National Forest. Protected mountains surround our natural rivers and streams, making Bryson City one of the greatest fly fishing destinations with cold trout-filled waters in pristine settings.