Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides at Hells Hollow

10/20/2026

 check out our new fall line. 706408 ride

10/14/2026

10/07/2026

10/07/2026

call 706-408-7433

10/04/2026

🚂🎄 A CHRISTMAS TRAIN RIDE THROUGH THE SMOKIES! THE POLAR EXPRESS | BRYSON CITY, NORTH CAROLINA

Christmas may still feel far away, but this is one holiday experience worth planning early!

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad brings THE POLAR EXPRESS™ story to life with a round-trip journey departing from the historic Bryson City Depot. Enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie, listen to the beloved Christmas story, and welcome Santa aboard. Each child receives a silver sleigh bell to remember the adventure.

🎟️ 2026 tickets are on sale. The railroad warns that tickets sell out quickly, so book your preferred date and departure early.

Choose your date, seating class, and available seats through the official reservation system before arranging lodging or the rest of your getaway. Prices vary by departure and seating class.

The ride lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The railroad recommends arriving one hour before departure. Pajamas are welcome, but dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes.

✨ Leave time to explore Bryson City before boarding and make the train ride the highlight of your mountain-town visit.

Disclosure: Small Town Discoveries is an independent travel publisher, not affiliated with the railroad or event organizer. Purchase tickets directly from the official provider and confirm schedules, prices, availability, and booking terms. The accompanying image is an AI-generated illustration, not an actual event photograph. Train appearance, decorations, and scenery may differ.