If you’re heading to the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains and craving a mix of adventure and relaxation, the Bryson City: Bigfoot & Breweries Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While it’s not your typical sightseeing day, this tour combines two intriguing activities—hunting for the legendary Bigfoot in the wilderness and sampling some of the best local brews in Western North Carolina.
What immediately catches our eye about this experience is its unique theme—it’s the only Bigfoot tour in the area—paired with the chance to enjoy a guided brewery tour without the hassle of driving yourself. Plus, the fact that it’s a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides makes it feel more personal and tailored to genuine curiosity. However, it’s worth noting that the hiking involves up to 2+ miles, which might be a consideration if mobility is an issue. This tour is best suited for those who love a mix of outdoor adventure and laid-back tasting sessions, and who appreciate a good story or two along the way.
Key Points
- Unique combination of Bigfoot hunting and brewery touring
- Small-group experience with a maximum of 7 guests
- Guided hike of up to 2+ miles into the Smoky Mountains
- Includes transportation and guided exploration of known Bigfoot hotspots
- Tour operates with a 4-person minimum, so it’s best to plan ahead
- Price point of $174 per person offers a blend of adventure and local flavor
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
The Bryson City Bigfoot & Breweries Tour is a refreshing take on typical mountain excursions. Instead of just hiking or visiting breweries separately, it pairs an outdoor mystery hunt with a relaxed brewery crawl—an unusual, fun combo that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
The tour begins early from Bryson City, with a pickup around 8:00 A.M. and lasts approximately nine hours. This includes guided hiking, Bigfoot hotspot exploration, and stops at four local breweries. The fact that it’s all in a small group—limited to 7 participants—means you’ll get more personalized attention and the chance to ask lots of questions. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which adds a lot to the experience, especially if you’re new to the area or curious about the local legends.
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The Bigfoot Hunting Experience
This is the part that makes this tour intriguing for many. The guides will take you into known Bigfoot hotspots, sharing stories of sightings and mysterious disappearances in the park. You’ll hike through a haunted tunnel, scout for footprints, and try some traditional Bigfoot calls like tree knocking. The goal isn’t just to see a creature (which is rare, of course), but to learn about the lore and the wilderness.
The hiking segment involves up to 2+ miles, depending on your group’s pace and abilities. For those who love outdoor exploration, this is a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the mountain scenery. For less mobile travelers, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
The Breweries Tour
Once the Bigfoot adventure winds down, your designated driver takes over to cruise through four breweries. This part of the day is all about enjoying the local flavors—each brewery has its own character, and food trucks are often available at the stops, allowing you to grab snacks or a meal to accompany your drinks. The tour doesn’t include the cost of beer or food, so you’ll want to budget accordingly.
Having a designated driver means you can relax and savor the experience without worrying about driving. It’s a great way to sample regional craft beers and learn more about the brewing scene from local experts. The breweries are handpicked and are a highlight for many travelers, especially those who enjoy discovering hidden gems.
Practical Details and Considerations
At $174 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—combining outdoor adventure, local storytelling, and a brewery visit, all guided and with transportation included. The price might seem steep compared to simple sightseeing, but considering the personalized nature, guided hikes, and brewery stops, it’s reasonable for a full-day experience.
Timing-wise, you’ll be picked up at 8:00 A.M. and dropped back off near your stay in Bryson City, making it convenient for planning the rest of your day. It’s worth booking early since the tour is popular and sells out quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Bring closed-toe shoes for the hike, and remember, no sandals, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes. The tour also emphasizes safety and comfort, so the rules around smoking, vaping, and alcohol in the vehicle are strictly enforced.
More Great Tours NearbyFrom the Traveler’s Perspective
One review from Bailey highlights how knowledgeable the guides are—they know the park, its history, plants, and the town intimately. She mentioned, “It was an awesome hike and experience overall,” which speaks to the quality of the guide-led exploration. That kind of insight makes the mystery of Bigfoot more engaging and the brewery stops more enjoyable.
Another aspect travelers seem to appreciate is the personalized experience. With a small group, everyone gets more interaction and attention. The hike is described as an “awesome experience,” and many mention that the guides share compelling stories, making the adventure feel genuine and fun.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a little mystery and a lot of local flavor. If you’re curious about Bigfoot lore or want a memorable outdoor activity, this tour will entertain and inform. Beer lovers will also appreciate the chance to sample multiple local breweries in one day.
However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer a calmer, less physically demanding outing. It’s also not designed as a family-friendly activity or for young children, given the hiking and safety considerations.
Final Thoughts
The Bryson City: Bigfoot & Breweries Tour offers a playful, memorable way to experience the Smoky Mountains, blending folklore with craft beer culture. The guides’ knowledge and the small-group setting make it a personal and engaging experience. The hiking can be a highlight for outdoor lovers, and the brewery stops add a relaxed, social element that rounds out the day.
If you’re craving something different from the usual mountain hikes or winery tours, this combo provides a compelling mix of mystery, scenery, and local flavor. It’s best suited for curious, adventurous spirits who appreciate storytelling, good company, and a laid-back tasting session.
Overall, it’s a day that offers more than just sightseeing—it’s about creating stories to take home, whether that’s spotting footprints, hearing a Bigfoot call, or sampling a new craft beer.
Bryson City: Bigfoot & Breweries Tour
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not explicitly designed for children, especially since it involves hiking and safety rules. It’s more suited for adults or older teens comfortable with outdoor activities.
What should I bring for the hike?
Bring closed-toe shoes, as they are required. It’s also good to bring layers, water, and perhaps a small backpack for personal items.
Are food and beer included?
No, food trucks are available at the breweries, but the tour price does not include food or beer. You’ll purchase your drinks and snacks during the brewery stops.
How long is the hiking portion?
The hike can include up to 2+ miles, depending on the group’s pace and abilities.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 7 guests, which helps keep things personal and interactive.
What time does the tour start and end?
It begins around 8:00 A.M. and lasts approximately nine hours, with a return to your stay location in Bryson City.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes guided transportation between the hiking and brewery stops.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book early, as the tour sells out quickly during busy seasons.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour good for someone new to the area?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable about the park, history, and local stories, making it a great introduction to the region.
If you’re after a fun, different kind of day in the Smokies—one that combines mystery, nature, and local brewing—you might find this tour hits the spot. Just remember to bring your sense of curiosity and a love for good stories.
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