Area Attractions

Cataloochee Ski Area

Located mile high in the mountains of Western North Carolina, we are the home of "Great Skiing in the Great Smokies!" One of the first areas in the region to open each season, we are committed to making your skiing and snowboarding experience the best it can be. We utilize one the most advanced snowmaking systems in the Southeast and offer 100% snowmaking on 16 lighted slopes including the Cat Cage Terrain Park. With a variety of terrain for beginners to experts alike and over 4,000 sets of snowsports equipment, the Cataloochee experience offers something for everyone. Plan your Great Skiing in the Great Smokies vacation today at Cataloochee...where we're all about the FUN! ​

Great Smoky Mountain Railroad

We are located in the heart of Bryson City, North Carolina. Your journey begins in Bryson City! Our scenic rail excursions takes you from our historic depot through the beautiful countryside of Western North Carolina. Our variety of train excursions and special event trains makes us perfect for making memories with your friends and families! Dine in our First Class Cars with a private attendant and breathtaking views or take it all in while riding in an open air gondola! Step on board for your next rail adventure! Group reservations: 800-872-4681 option 3 ​

Nantahala Village Stables

The Nantahala Village Resort and Spa is privileged to be in relationship with two horse stables in the area, The Nantahala Village Stables located on site, and Lonesome Dove Stables in Robbinsville. Catering to all groups and sizes from singles, families, church groups, and special needs children, riders will experience a scenic adventure through sundry parts of the Nantahala National Forest. Through horses, nature, and leisure, our desire is to provide an unforgettable experience. ​

The Fun Factory

Located in scenic Franklin, North Carolina, The Factory is Western North Carolina’s premier destination for great family fun and dining. Enjoy over 100 arcade games, the region’s largest go cart track, laser tag, indoor mini golf, a kid’s play area for smaller children and much more.

Darnell Farms

Darnell Farms is a true agro-tourism experience for the whole family. We are in a beautiful valley along the banks of the Tuckasegee River in Bryson City, North Carolina. We’re an active, second-generation family farm. Our farm produces 100 acres of strawberries, pole beans, sweet corn, pumpkins, squash, a variety of tomatoes and much more. ​

Tubing

We are the biggest, best and friendliest tubing outfitter in Cherokee, North Carolina — home to the Oconaluftee River, which is widely known as one of the cleanest, clearest and most beautiful rivers in the SE United States. Our Little Princess location is the only one with direct access to the Oconaluftee River. ​We are open daily, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, Monday from 10:00am to 5:00pm each day (weather and conditions permitting)

Explore Bryson City Shopping / Sites

Most people assume North Carolina’s mountain charm ends at Asheville, but venture a little farther west, and you’ll discover Bryson City—a hidden gem and one of the most picturesque mountain towns in the Southeast. Nestled where the Blue Ridge meets the Smokies, this scenic retreat is brimming with adventure and natural beauty. With nearly 40 percent of Great Smoky Mountains National Park located in Swain County, Bryson City offers unparalleled access to the park’s breathtaking landscapes, winding trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife—without the crowds of the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area. ​

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Bryson City is home to five entrances to the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the nation's most visited national park, more than any other destination surrounding the Park. In addition to Oconaluftee at Cherokee, Kuwohi (Formerly Known as Clingmans Dome), the Road to Nowhere, and Deep Creek, you can also access remote areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park after crossing Fontana Dam, on the Appalachian Trail, or by boat on a North Shore excursion, or on a guided hike to Hazel Creek. ​

Wildwater Rafting Ltd.

Wildwater provides opportunities for white water rafting on the Nantahala River and ziplining. They are known for their friendly service and accommodations for groups.

Hyatt Creek Fishing

Their passion is fishing. They provided guided fishing trips in the Smoky Mounts. They have a variety of locations for all different comfort levels. ​

JJ's Deep Creek Tubes

Looking for a tube rental place that will provide you quality service without haggling over the price? If so, then you need to come by JJs Tubes and go tubing on Deep Creek. JJ's Tubes is conveniently located just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. JJ's has been family owned and operated by local school teachers for over 30+ years. 1401 W Deep Creek Rd., Bryson City, NC 28713 828-342-4572. ​

Bryson City Outdoors (Bikes)

Bryson City Outdoors rents a variety of Bikes. With a bicycle rental fleet that includes full suspension, hard tail, e-bikes and youth bikes, they will have everything you need to plan a day's ride. Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park areas have some of the most beautiful scenery and pleasant trails on which to ride a bike.

To schedule a reservation with Icthus Ministries, call (828) 507-1315