In 1988, many entities had come together to form the Great Smoky Mountains Railway, which then began running passenger excursions. Rolling stock for the GSMR was purchased from various railroads around the nation. The Dillsboro to Nantahala route was one of the most scenic on the Murphy Branch and the excursion trains caught on right away.
#1702 Steam Engine!
One of the most popular rides on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad is when the #1702 steam engine is pulling the load!
Built for the war effort in 1942, #1702 was originally a coal fired steamer! Planned to be moved overseas, the engine served the war effort in Fort Bragg.
#1702 was sold to the Warren & Saline River Railroad in Arkansas in 1946 and worked until 1972 with that company. During this time #1702 was converted from coal to an oil burner.
#1702 was purchased by the GSMRR in 1991 and pulled excursion trains until 2004 when the firebox required extensive work.
#1702 set in storage for 12 years until restoration was completed in 2016. # 1702 officially returned to the GSMR's active roster on July 26, 2016.
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad passenger excursions take you from our historic depot in Bryson City, through the beautiful countryside of Western North Carolina to various destinations. Our variety of passenger train options and special event trains makes us perfect for making memories and experience the true form of railroading!
[About GSMRR - Bryson City]
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