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Hoppin' Along: Easter Trains in North Carolina

Published: March 2, 2025

By: Adam Burns

North Carolina, with its picturesque landscapes and vibrant spring colors, offers the perfect backdrop for scenic train rides, especially around the Easter season. These trains provide not just a means to soak in the beauty of the Tar Heel State, but also a unique, nostalgic way to celebrate Easter, complete with events and activities for families and train enthusiasts alike. Here’s a comprehensive guide to Easter-related scenic train rides available in North Carolina.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad's Bunner Hopper Express

The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad based in Bryson City has been in operation since 1988 and uses tracks once owned by the venerable Southern Railway, which the company called its Murphy Branch.  

The GMSR offers one of the most popular Easter-themed train rides in North Carolina—the Bunny Hopper Express. This special event is perfect for families looking to create a new tradition or simply enjoy a delightful day out.

Highlights

Duration & Route: The round-trip journey lasts about four and a half hours, taking passengers through the enchanting Smoky Mountains with breathtaking views of rivers, forests, and tunnels.

The train departs Bryson City Depot at 11:00 am and stops at the appointed layover for Easter-themed fun and an exciting Egg Hunt await!

Easter Activities: Onboard, children are treated to Easter-themed storytelling, crafts, and, of course, a meet-and-greet with the Easter Bunny. Typically, there’s also an Easter egg hunt at one of the stops.

Comfort & Ambiance: You can choose between open-air and climate-controlled cars (with several different classes to choose from), ensuring comfort while you soak in the springtime scenery.

Booking & Tips: As this ride is popular, especially on the weekend of Easter, it’s advisable to book tickets early. Consider bringing a camera to capture the joy on your kids’ faces and the breathtaking Smoky Mountain vistas.

North Carolina Transportation Museum

The North Carolina Transportation Museum, located in Spencer, NC, is situated on the former Southern Railway’s repair shops. Today the museum sees tens of thousands annually and features an impressive collection of equipment.  

They also host short excursions on the grounds, including the Easter Bunny Express every spring where the kids enjoy a short train ride, receive a treat, and take part in other activities.

Highlights

Historic Experience: The museum itself is a treasure trove of transportation history, and the train ride adds a touch of nostalgia as vintage railcars take you on a journey through time.

Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond a scenic train ride, families can enjoy Easter egg hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny, and interactive exhibits related to rail transport.

Special Events: Often additional activities such as face-painting, and balloon art are available, making it a comprehensive family outing.

Booking & Tips: The museum’s Easter Bunny Train can get quite busy, so pre-purchasing tickets is recommended. Plan to spend some additional time exploring the museum’s exhibits before or after your train ride.

Tweetsie Railroad: Meeting The Easter Bunny

While primarily a Wild West theme park, the Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock also hosts a vibrant Easter Weekend, perfect for families looking for both adventure and traditional Easter fun.

The railroad is popular throughout the warmer months and while it does not offer an official Easter-themed train ride the Easter Bunny does make a visit for the holiday where the kids can take photos.  In addition, there are other activities to enjoy at the park.

In conclusion, North Carolina’s Easter scenic train rides offer an irresistible blend of fun, adventure, and tradition. Whether it's the majestic vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains or the historic charm of the NC Transportation Museum, these train rides encapsulate the spirit of Easter through unique experiences that promise joy for all ages. Embark on one of these enchanting journeys and create memories that will last a lifetime.