Craggy Mountain Line — Attraction in Woodfin

The Craggy Mountain Line is a non-profit, all volunteer run, railroad museum located in Asheville, North Carolina. The museum operates from May through the end of September and offers rides on a historic trolley train along a 3.45-mile rail line known as the Asheville to Craggy Branch. The line was formerly part of the Southern Railroad.

The collection includes local historic cars from Asheville in addition to transit cars from Chicago and New York City. Their future plans include developing a museum to display railroad memorabilia and information about the history of the line and its significance to the area. They also want to acquire and restore more railroad cars, engines, and equipment for display and allow community non-profit organizations to use boxcars for storage of surplus foods, clothing, and other goods for distribution.

Overall, the Craggy Mountain Line is a great place to learn about Asheville's railroad history and to take a ride on a historic trolley train. Here’s why people love visiting the Craggy Mountain Line:

Family Friendly: The train ride is a great activity for families with young children. The open air trolley allows for parents to keep a close eye on their kids while they enjoy the scenery. Educational: The train ride offers a narrated tour of the area, pointing out historical landmarks and natural features. Scenic Views: The train ride travels along the French Broad River, offering beautiful views of the mountains and countryside. Relaxing: The train ride is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery. The slow pace of the train allows you to take in the sights and sounds of the area. Affordable: The train ride is a very affordable activity, making it a great option for families or budget-minded travelers. If you are looking for a fun and educational activity to do in Asheville, the Craggy Mountain Line is a...

We had a party of 16 and rented a trolley for 2 hours for a birthday celebration (mine). The way it ended up working was that they took us on rail from their location to a river park.

Cons: *A little smoky smelling. The engine is apparently gasoline burning. (It would be awesome if they converted to electric. But, this is a non-profit and would require volunteers with knowledge.) *Bumpy and lots of vibration. *Loud--A little hard to converse if you are hard of hearing. *Not sure what they do in bad weather but we had great weather.

Pros: *River scene. *History. *River view stop. Nice visit at the park. (Trip in the other direction may or may not be different.) Our trip was relatively short and maybe half the time was at the stop on one end before heading back. I think this really works--Nice change. *Wonderful, dedicated volunteers who love history, trains, and trolleys. *Educational. *Museum included. (I didn't see it but heard it was small. However, the outside is a museum too with lots of trains and trolleys.) Some history materials are available for the true history buffs. *On our trip, they let my nephew pilot the trolley. For me, that was the greatest! *Great for a family event--or maybe even a date.

Note that the speed is very slow. I actually liked that. It did not bother me that the trip was short but I have seen some reviewers comment that they didn't like that. This is a piece of history not built for long comfortable travel. Thus, I hope they continue to keep the route short.

Overall, 5 starts out of 5! Thank-you to all the volunteers. (By the way, they seem to accept tips--I think...

My experience aboard the Craggy Mountain Line was nothing short of extraordinary. This scenic railway journey through the breathtaking landscapes of North Carolina’s mountains left me in awe of nature’s beauty and the rich history of the region.

Craggy Mountain Line is more than just a train ride; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, indulge in history, and create cherished memories. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this scenic railway journey is an absolute must-do. I wholeheartedly recommend Craggy Mountain Line to anyone visiting the area. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of the mountains and the nostalgic charm of this...