Great Smoky Mountains Music Train Summer 2026

Bryson City, North Carolina — This summer, a brand-new musical adventure is coming to the heart of the Smokies. The Great Smoky Mountains Music Train embarks on its inaugural journey on June 5–6, 2026, promising passengers an unforgettable evening of live music, breathtaking mountain scenery, and the timeless charm of a historic steam-powered train.

Departing from the Bryson City Depot, the Music Train is a one-of-a-kind, moving concert experience along the scenic Nantahala River and Fontana Lake. Guests will enjoy six live performances across multiple vintage railcars, featuring two full bands and four solo or duo artists performing live American, Appalachian, folk, country and bluegrass music music throughout the train. Each coach creates its own unique musical atmosphere, and passengers are encouraged to explore freely, moving between cars as the journey unfolds.”

Four enclosed vintage coaches provide seating with space to dance, while two open-air gondola cars—fully roofed with open sides—are dedicated to high-energy band performances and dancing. Two additional coaches offer quiet space for conversation and relaxation. Sound systems are installed in each music car to ensure an immersive experience throughout the train.

“Our Colorado train has proven to be an incredibly successful and beloved experience, and we’re thrilled to bring that same spirit to North Carolina,” said Event Director and Founder Steve Gumble. “From the stunning scenery to the region’s deep appreciation for live music, the parallels were impossible to ignore. “What began in Colorado as a bold idea has become a proven, unforgettable journey, and the Great Smoky Mountains felt like the natural next chapter. The landscape, the history, and the region’s deep musical roots create the perfect setting to evolve the concept while honoring what makes it special. This sister train isn’t a replica—it’s a new expression of the same magic, and we’re excited to share it with a whole new community of music fans across the East Coast.”

The round-trip experience lasts approximately three and a half hours, with boarding beginning at 6:30 pm, departure at 7:00 pm sharp, and a return around 10:00 pm, including a short intermission midway through the ride.

The artist lineup will be announced February 10, with tickets going on sale February 12. Ticket pricing is tiered as follows:

• $139 — February 12 through April 1
• $149 — April 1 through May 1
• $159 — May 1 through event dates (June 5 & 6)

Friday and Saturday nights will feature the same lineup of musicians, though organizers emphasize that each evening will deliver its own energy, crowd dynamic, and musical moments.

Beer and wine will be available for purchase onboard in the concession car, with restrooms accessible throughout the train, including one wheelchair-accessible restroom. The train begins and ends each night at the Bryson City Depot, located at 45 Mitchell Street, Bryson City, NC.

For tickets, updates, and full event details, visit the official website or follow the Great Smoky Mountains Music Train on social media.

About Great Smoky Mountains Music Train

The Great Smoky Mountains Music Train is a one-of-a-kind live music experience set aboard a historic steam-powered train traveling through the heart of Western North Carolina. Running along the scenic Nantahala River and Fontana Lake, the immersive journey features multiple live performances across vintage railcars, allowing guests to move freely between sets while taking in the breathtaking landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains. Designed to celebrate music, place, and adventure, the Great Smoky Mountains Music Train offers an unforgettable way to experience live music in motion.

About Bryson City, NC

Bryson City is a charming mountain town located on the doorstep of the
Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Western North Carolina. With nearly 40 percent of the park situated in Swain County, Bryson City offers unparalleled access to outdoor adventure, scenic landscapes, and authentic Appalachian culture. Known for its welcoming community, historic downtown, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City serves as a gateway to hiking, waterfalls, rivers, and unforgettable mountain experiences.

About SBG Productions, Inc.

Bryson City is a charming mountain town located on the doorstep of the
Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Western North Carolina. With nearly 40 percent of the park situated in Swain County, Bryson City offers unparalleled access to outdoor adventure, scenic landscapes, and authentic Appalachian culture. Known for its welcoming community, historic downtown, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, Bryson City serves as a gateway to hiking, waterfalls, rivers, and unforgettable mountain experiences.

About SBG Productions

A full-service event and festival production company since 1994, SBG Productions specializes in the unique, multi-faceted live music experiences of the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival, Telluride Gay Ski Week, Durango Blues Train and Durango Bluegrass Train.