Cherokee, NC, 2007

The streets were almost empty. Most of the stores were not even opened yet. Such is the town of Cherokee in early May.

Even though the "excitement" of watching "Indians" dancing in front of their tipis was not on our agenda due to the fact that they were still getting ready for the tourists, we did have the luxury of having the riverside park to ourselves. We were able to eat our subs with only the ducks for company. The last time we were here, the park was crowded with family groups and reunions. This peaceful quiet was, to me, the true spirit of this area.

We also were able to take a ride on the scenic railroad out of Bryson City into the Nantahala National Forest. It took up most of the day and was true to the "scenic" part of its title.

The Comfort Inn on Tsalagi Road was a comfortable and affordable place to stay. It was clean, well kept, and had hot waffles on the breakfast buffet.

This was the best of the many visits we have had to this little town.

Quick Tips:

Best Way To Get Around:

This early in the season, the best way to get around is by car. We did not see the trolley that operates during the peak tourist season.

The Comfort Suites truly lives up to its name. The room we were given had a king-sized bed and a small sitting/eating area with an adjoining balcony overlooking the river. The room was clean and well kept. The TV had several channels, including movie channels. The free newspaper gave the listings for the evening - since the sidewalks were rolled up around 6pm.

There is a pool - which was not open this early in the season. The hotel is convenient to the main part of the town and a cinema/entertainment complex is being built right down the street. The drama "Unto These Hills" is not far away (it starts the first week of June). You can drive there within minutes or catch a shuttle in the center of town.

The free breakfast included your choice of coffee, tea, hot chocolate or juice, pastries, cereal, fresh waffles, and fresh fruit. Unfortunately, the only fresh fruit was apples. You can breakfast in the lounge in front of the fireplace, in the breakfast area, or on the balcony overlooking the river.

The scenic railroad from Bryson City to the Nantahala National Forest is one of several short line railroads in the area. This one has the option of a river rafting trip as the grand finale to your train excursion. We did not choose this since my husband does not like water too much, but those I talked to that took it were thrilled.

The train runs along the riverbanks for most of the trip. Sit on the left side if you want the best views. We sat on the right side and missed most of the river views - including the rafters and kayakers. The attendants do not request patrons to switch sides for the return trip the way they do on other short lines we have ridden. (That way everyone gets to see all the scenery.)

We had a layover at the Nantahala Outdoor Center for one hour. The food at Slow Joe's was adequate for midday lunch. I don't know that it would be enough for those who were rafting, but it was more than enough for us. The attendants told those who wanted to lunch at the Riverside restaurant across the bridge, to let the waiter know that they had to be back to the train in one hour. Apparently, the service is sometimes slower than others and you have no other way back to Bryson City besides the train unless you are part of the rafting contingent.

If there is no one under 21 years old in your party, you can sit in the Club Car for an extra fee of $20. They serve you coffee, hot chocolate, soft drinks and pretzels on the outbound trip, and champagne or sparkling grape juice and canapes on the return trip. There is a cash bar for those who would like stronger libations. You may also purchase sandwiches on the train if you get hungry.

The trip takes about four hours and the ticket purchase also allows you into the Model Train Museum behind the depot. It is a fun place for children and adults. If you ever had a model train under your tree at Christmas and dreamed of something bigger...this is it! The mile-long tracks take you through city and farm. The details in the scenes are fantastic. They make you wish you had the time and talent to construct such a dream world. Even a few minutes spent here will bring back your childhood and enrich the ones of your children.