Bryson City, Mountain town in Swain County, North Carolina.
Bryson City sits at an elevation of about 1,750 feet (535 meters) in Swain County, surrounded by the peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains and bordered by the Tuckasegee River. The town lies in a valley framed by steep forested slopes and serves as a base for outdoor activities throughout the region.
The settlement was founded as Charleston in 1871 when Swain County formed, then renamed in 1889 to honor Colonel Thaddeus Bryson. This change marked a new phase as the mountain community continued to grow.
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad operates from here, offering train rides through the mountains that connect visitors to regional heritage. The railroad remains central to how the community shares its mountain culture with travelers.
The Nantahala Outdoor Center provides equipment rentals and guided tours year-round for activities like rafting, kayaking, and mountain biking. Visitors can find everything they need to explore the region's rivers and mountains in one place.
The Deep Creek area has three waterfalls within easy walking distance of each other: Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls. This waterfall route is one of the easiest hikes to access from town.
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