Although Bryson City, North Carolina, is a tiny, accessible town, having a car can be useful if you want to explore the surrounding areas, making transportation & getting around in Bryson City more convenient. While the town itself is easy to navigate on foot, a car gives you the flexibility to visit nearby attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Fontana Lake, and other scenic spots. For those without a car, local taxis or ride-sharing services may also be available for getting around.
Here is a guide to the available modes of transportation for moving around in the city.
Car Rental Bryson City NC
An easy way to enjoy the area’s picturesque highways, quaint towns, and natural beauty is to rent a car in Bryson City.
Despite being a tiny town, Bryson City has a number of convenient car rental options close by that provide a wide selection of automobiles, flexible pricing, and convenient pickup locations.
Here is a comprehensive reference to renting a car in Bryson City and the surrounding area, complete with information on costs, features, and helpful hints for a trouble-free trip.
Mountain View Car Rentals: Affordable Vehicle Options Near Bryson City
This smaller rental firm is around half an hour’s drive from Bryson City and has a decent selection of automobiles, including sedans, SUVs, and economy cars.
- They make it simple for guests staying in cabins or vacation rentals to obtain an automobile without having to leave their resort by offering pickup and delivery services to nearby lodgings.
Price: $45 to $80
Franklin TN Rent A Car: Affordable Options for Your Bryson City Adventure
Franklin Rent-A-Car is another alternative, a bit further afield and around 45 minutes south of Bryson City.
They provide a range of car models, with an emphasis on affordable cars and family vehicles including vans and SUVs.
Price: $60 to $80
Biking and Walking Around Bryson City
Cycling is a fantastic way to see Bryson City since it’s a sustainable form of transportation that also allows you to enjoy the scenery.
Because of its tiny size, the town is easy to get around on a bike, and there are plenty of biking routes nearby for riders of all ability levels.
Discover Bryson City Outdoors: Your Premier Bike Rental Destination
Located in the middle of town, Bryson City Outdoors is a popular rental company that provides high-quality bikes for both beginners and expert riders.
- They have hybrid, road, and mountain bike types in stock.
- The personnel here can assist you in finding the ideal bike for your needs because they are informed about the greatest trails and routes in the area.
Timings: Monday to Thursday: 10 am to 8 pm
Friday and Saturday: 10 am to 9 pm
Sunday: 11 am to 7 pm
Location: 169 Main St, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States. Get Directions
Contact: +1 828-342-6444
NOC Bike Rental Shop: Your Gateway to Outdoor Adventure
Bicycles and other outdoor adventure gear are available for rent at the well-known Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC).
The bikes that NOC offers are ideal for exploring the neighboring trails of the Nantahala National Forest or the world-class mountain biking routes of the Tsali Recreation Area.
Timings: Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 4 pm
Location: 13077 US-19, Bryson City, NC 28713, United States. Get Directions
Contact: +1 828-707-4128
Biking Hiking Trails in Bryson City, NC
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest surround us. So, hiking is a top outdoor activity in Bryson City.
Options range from a casual walk along a mountain stream to a tough wilderness trip and even bucket list treks, like the Appalachian Trail. Lace up, choose your path and set your sights on adventure.
Discover the Appalachian Trail: A Hiking Adventure Awaits
The A.T., or Appalachian Trail, is in the National Park System. It welcomes over 3 million visitors each year.
- The Appalachian Trail runs from its northern terminus at Katahdin, Maine, to its southern end at Springer Mountain, Georgia.
- It was fully connected in 1937. The A.T. is the world’s longest hiking-only pathway, spanning over 2,190 miles.
- Discover the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s and the area around Bryson City’s A.T. section hiking. Experience a simpler life, meet new people, get back in touch with nature, or get away from the stress of the city.
Explore Cheoah Bald: A Scenic Hike on the Appalachian Trail
At 5062 feet, Cheoah Bald is crossed by the Appalachian Trail.
The major draw is the attractive grassy campsite situated above the large grassy bald with a broad vista of the southern skyline on the south side. Nearly 3,000 feet high, Cheoah Bald dominates the Nantahala Gorge.
There are three trails leading to Cheoah Bald, all of which are rated as difficult hikes.
Length: 18 km
Difficulty: Hard
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Hike from Newfound Gap to Charlie’s Bunion: A Scenic Appalachian Trail Adventur
This moderate 8-mile hike is an out-and-back trek along a stretch of the Appalachian Trail. This climb to Charlies Bunion, a lovely stone outcrop, offers stunning views of the mountains.
- Drive 16 miles from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center to the Newfound Gap Overlook parking area to reach the trailhead.
- The trailhead is located at the end of the parking lot, close to the bathrooms, to the left of the overlook. This well-liked hiking location can be reached by hikers heading east on the Appalachian Trail. There are some exposed cliffs on this well-packed trail.
Length: 12 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4 hours
Explore the Deep Creek Loop: A Waterfall Adventure
The best-known features of the Deep Creek region are its streams and waterfalls. A waterfall loop trail can be taken by hikers to reach three waterfalls.
- You may get to know gorgeous Deep Creek and three waterfalls by trekking for around 2.5 km.
- Indian Creek Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Juney Whank Falls are all part of the Deep Creek Waterfall hiking loop. The vast parking lot at the end of Deep stream Road, across the stream from Deep Creek Campground, serves as the trailhead.
Get a trail map by downloading it.
- This is one of the few park pathways that allows bicycles, so mountain bikers may enjoy it.
- Bicycles are permitted on the Deep Creek and Indian Creek trails.
Length: 7.9 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
Hike the Indian Creek Falls Trail: A Year-Round Adventure
Discover this 11.7 km out-and-back trail in the vicinity of Walnut Cove, NC. It takes an average of 3 hours and 22 minutes to complete and is generally regarded as a moderately hard course.
- Although this is a well-liked trail for hiking and birdwatching, you can still find some peace and quiet during the slower periods of the day.
- The route is lovely to explore at any time of year and is open year-round. Dogs are allowed, however they need to be kept leashed.
Length: 11.7 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 3 hours 22 minutes
Public Transport and Shuttle Services in Bryson City
There isn’t a robust public transportation network in Bryson City.
There are, a few choices available.
Swain Country Transit
This is the public transit system serving Bryson City and Swain County.
- It provides transportation for shopping, doctor’s visits, and other necessary outings, mostly catering to the needs of the local population.
- There is some limited visitor transportation provided by Swain County Transit, however reservations are frequently required and availability is sometimes restricted.
Shuttle Services
Shuttle services are offered by a number of private businesses, especially for tourists who want to visit outdoor destinations like hiking trails, rafting put-ins, or picturesque regions inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Train
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad provides magnificent train trips through the mountains, although it is not a regular mode of transportation.
- This is a well-liked tourist destination that offers a distinctive perspective of the surroundings.
- The train offers trips that leave from Bryson City and travel along Fontana Lake and through the Nantahala Gorge.
Taxi and Rideshare
There aren’t many traditional taxis in Bryson City, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft aren’t as common as they are in bigger towns.
- In Bryson City, there are a few taxicab services that are available for short excursions inside the city or to neighboring locations.
- If you require a transportation, it’s a good idea to call ahead of time as availability is limited.
- Although wait times may be greater than in more urban locations, Uber and Lyft can be available.
- If you would rather not drive, these services can be helpful for getting around town or to neighboring attractions.
Conclusion | Transportation & Getting Around in Bryson City
You can choose how adventurous or leisurely you want to travel around Bryson City.
There is something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to transportation in Bryson City, whether you want to ride a historic train, bike on nature trails, drive on picturesque mountain roads, or just wander through the quaint downtown.
While renting a car offers you the freedom to travel throughout the surrounding areas, if you want to stay in the city, biking and walking can be environmentally responsible ways to get to know the sights.
You will undoubtedly be able to appreciate this Appalachian gem’s beauty and charm, regardless of the method of transportation you use.
Transportation & Getting Around in Bryson City FAQs
1. What are the main transportation options in Bryson City?
Bryson City offers various transportation options, including car rentals, bike rentals, shuttle services, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, and limited taxi and rideshare services.
2. Is it necessary to rent a car in Bryson City?
While Bryson City is a small and accessible town, renting a car can be beneficial if you want to explore the surrounding areas, including outdoor destinations and scenic drives.
3. Where can I rent a car in Bryson City?
There are several car rental options near Bryson City, including Mountain View Car Rentals and Franklin Rent-A-Car, offering a variety of vehicles and convenient pickup locations.
4. Can I rent a bike in Bryson City?
Yes! Bryson City Outdoors and the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) both offer high-quality bike rentals for exploring the town and nearby trails.
5. Are there public transportation options in Bryson City?
The public transportation system in Bryson City is limited, but Swain County Transit provides services for local residents, including some transportation options for visitors, though reservations may be required.
6. How can I access hiking trails around Bryson City?
Many hiking trails are accessible by car, bike, or shuttle services. Popular trails, such as those in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest, are within a short drive from Bryson City.
7. What is the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad?
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad offers scenic train rides from Bryson City, providing a unique way to experience the beautiful landscapes of Fontana Lake and Nantahala Gorge.
8. Can I bring my dog while biking or hiking?
Dogs are allowed on many biking and hiking trails, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check the specific trail regulations before heading out.
