A Complete Visiting Guide Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster,tn
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, Tennessee, where the excitement is around every corner! Are you prepared for an amazing ride? Located in the stunning Smoky Mountains, this alpine coaster is a top spot for anyone who loves thrills and the great outdoors. In this article, we’ll give you why you must visit, some tips for visiting, and ticket price.
Why the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a must-visit attraction
The alpine coaster in smoky mountains is more than just a regular roller coaster. It gives you a special experience that mixes the excitement of a roller sled with the beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains.
As you go up to the top of the coaster, you’ll be amazed by the incredible sights around you. It has more than 1 mile of track, making it the longest downhill ride in the United States. It’s a really exciting adventure for anyone looking for fun.
The thick woods, big mountains, and curving rivers make a beautiful scene for your adventure. When you reach the top, prepare for an exciting ride back down. The coaster goes down smoothly and safely, but it’s still thrilling.
You’ll feel the breeze as you move through the trees, looking at the wide views. The mix of speed, twists, and turns will make your heart race the whole time.
7 Smoky Mountain Alpine Coasters
1. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
According to riders, the alpine coaster smoky mountains is among the best rides in the Smokies. It’s long, with a track that’s 5,400 feet! It costs around $15 per person, but you can use coupons to save money.
This coaster is in Wears Valley, a part of Pigeon Forge known for its beautiful scenery and winding mountains. So when you go, you’re in for a treat. It’s the oldest of the mountain coasters, which means they’ve had lots of time to make it great for visitors!
Pros
Since this attraction is very popular, lines can get long, especially during busy times. Visiting around dinner time or earlier in the day is a good idea to avoid the crowds.
The cars on this ride are spread out nicely, so you feel free to slow down to avoid bumping into the person in front of you.
The ride is well-marked with clear safety instructions, which is great for beginners trying out their first mountain coaster experience.
Cons
Due to its popularity, you might encounter long lines, particularly during peak hours.
Other Information
- Length: The track is more than 1 mile long, and the ride takes about 7 to 8 minutes with one trip up and down the mountain.
- Speed: This coaster can go as fast as 27 miles per hour.
- Price: Tickets are $18 for people aged 13 and up, $14 for ages 7 to 12, and $6 for children aged 3 to 6.
- Operating Hours: The coaster runs from 10 in the morning until 10 at night.
- Location: The coaster is at 867 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
2. Ober Mountain’s Ski Mountain Coaster
Ober Mountain Ski Mountain Coaster. It was made in 2015 and is in Gatlinburg. It’s great for families because when you reach the top of the mountain, you can choose how fast you want to go down.
The first part of the ride takes you up the mountain for about 1,000 feet, so you can enjoy the view before the ride gets exciting. You can go down the mountain slowly or as fast as 25 miles per hour.
The ride has twists, turns, and drops like a roller coaster. It costs about $15 per person to ride. After the ride, there are plenty of other things to do at Ober Mountain!
3. The Coaster at Goats on the Roof
At this alpine coaster in Pigeon Forge called The Coaster at Goats on the Roof, you can ride a roller coaster and feed goats in one place! It’s a bit unusual, but it’s true. Besides enjoying the thrills, you can get ice cream or fudge after your ride. And if you’re up for it, you can try gem mining, too. Plus, you can feed goats here!
Riding this alpine coaster in Pigeon Forge will cost you $15, but the beautiful views and ability to control your speed make it worthwhile. The track was made in 2015. It’s about 4,375 feet long, so get ready to zoom through the trees of Pigeon Forge. And remember, you can enjoy these alpine coaster in smoky mountains almost all year round!
Pros
- Situated near the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, the Goat Coaster often has shorter lines, providing a fun alternative with less waiting time.
- Nearby Goats on the Roof offers a quirky stop with its touristy charm, including the ongoing construction of a dinosaur-themed mini-golf course, adding to the overall experience.
Cons
- Due to ongoing construction nearby, the forested part of the ride may be lighter than other coasters. However, this is expected to improve over time as the vegetation matures.
Other Information
- Length: The track is 0.9 miles long, and the ride takes about 5 to 7 minutes with one trip up and down the mountain.
- Speed: This coaster can go as fast as 27 miles per hour.
- Price: It costs $12 for each person to ride.
- Operating Hours: The coaster operates from 9 in the morning until 11:30 at night.
- Location: The coaster is at 1341 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
4. Power Coaster at Rowdy Bear
At Rowdy Bear, you can ride alone or with someone else on the Power Coaster. It goes up to 35 miles per hour through the forest at Rowdy Bear Ridge. You control how fast you go, and the smart braking system keeps the cars from getting too close.
Kids who are three and tall enough can ride with an adult. The sled is open in almost any weather. Rowdy Bear Ridge Adventure Park also has ax throwing, tubing all year round, and more outdoor fun.
5. The Moonshine Mountain Coaster
This alpine coaster stays open later in the evening, which is rare in the Smoky Mountains. It’s a good idea to visit it more than once to enjoy the experience fully! The Moonshine Mountain sled is fun to do any time of day or year.
They’re open no matter the weather. It’s won awards as the most thrilling mountain sled in Gatlinburg and the top one in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, so you’ll want to try it! You must be at least 38 inches tall and 3 years old to ride this sled.
You don’t have to walk up the mountain to start your ride because you’ll be taken to the top when you’re ready. You can ride alone or with someone else, whichever you prefer.
Pros
- Riding at dusk offers a fantastic experience as the coaster uses lasers and spotlights for a spectacular show, making it stand out from others in the area.
- If you ride during the day, you can purchase a video of your entire ride and the usual action photo most coasters offer.
- Despite the dense forest surroundings, this coaster offers an excellent mountain coaster experience that satisfies many criteria for a thrilling ride.
Cons
- Unlike other mountain coasters, don’t expect distant mountain views during your ride, as this coaster is surrounded by dense forest.
Other Information
- Length: The track is 0.6 miles long, and the ride lasts around 4 to 5 minutes with one trip up and down the mountain.
- Speed: You can reach a maximum speed of 30 miles per hour on this coaster.
- Price: Tickets are $17 for people aged 13 and up, $13 for ages 8 to 12, and $5 for children aged 3 to 7.
- Operating Hours: The coaster runs from 10 in the morning until 10 at night.
- Location: The coaster is at 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
6. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster in Pigeon Forge
The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster in Pigeon Forge is one of the newest alpine sled in the Smoky Mountains! It’s not just any sled – it’s fun for the whole family. This ride has four lifts and four drops, making it four times the fun!
For something special, try riding it at night when the lights guide you through tunnels, curves, and sharp turns. The ride lasts over 9 minutes and gives you beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains. Don’t miss out on this sled in Pigeon Forge!
Pros
- Night rides offer a special and quieter way to experience the forest surroundings, making it highly recommended.
- The coaster provides an exciting experience with multiple loops, tunnels, and fast straight sections, adding to the thrill.
Cons
- When crowded, riders may bunch up around the track’s multiple ascents, preventing you from going at full speed without getting too close to others. It’s better to visit during quieter times.
- After each downhill section, lean forward in your seat as the cart connects to the next cable pull. This process can be rough and may strain your lower back.
Other Information
- Length: The track is 0.7 miles long, and the ride lasts about 8 to 10 minutes with four trips up and down the mountain.
- Speed: This coaster can reach up to 30 miles per hour.
- Price: It costs $18 for people aged 13 and up and $14 for ages 7 to 12 to ride.
- Operating Hours: The coaster operates from 10 in the morning until 10 at night.
- Location: The coaster is at 2940 Veterans Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
7. Rail Runner in Gatlinburg, at Anakeesta
Rail Runner in Gatlinburg, at Anakeesta, is North America’s only single-rail alpine coaster. It’s really interesting to watch because it looks like the car could flip around the track! This ride is one of the craziest and most intense alpine coasters.
Unlike other coasters, you start at the top and immediately zoom down the mountain. It goes down 400 feet over just 1,600 feet, so there are many sudden drops and tight turns. Without my belt, I felt like I could’ve slid down the mountain – this coaster is crazy!
The only downside is that you must go to Anakeesta, a new attraction above downtown Gatlinburg.
Pros
- Signs along the track help you know when to use the brakes for a smoother experience.
- The seats are very comfortable, with pillows to support your lower back.
- Although short, it’s one of the best rides for adrenaline pumping.
- After the ride, you can relax with a drink in a wooden rocking chair at Tap House and enjoy amazing views of the Smoky Mountains.
Cons
- The ride is expensive because you must pay for it separately from park admission.
- The coaster shuts down earlier than the rest of Anakeesta due to the risk of bears crossing the tracks.
- The ride is short, so the fun lasts only a short time.
Other Information
Watch for The Hellbender, a new mountain coaster coming to Anakeesta in the Fall of 2023.
- Length: The track is 0.3 miles long, and the ride lasts around 4 to 5 minutes with one trip up and down the mountain.
- Speed: The maximum speed you’ll reach on the coaster is 25 miles per hour.
- Price: For one person riding alone, it costs $14.99, and for two riding together, it’s $18.99. But remember, you also need to pay to get into the park: $34.99 for people aged 12 to 59, $22.99 for ages 4 to 11, $27.99 for those 60 and older, and free for children under 3. So, altogether, it’s $49.98 for a single adult rider.
- Operating Hours: The coaster runs from 9 in the morning until 7 in the evening. However, the park itself stays open until 10 p.m.
- Location: The coaster is located at 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.
Timing, Prices and ticket information
Timinings
- Sunday- Thursday: 10:00 am-10:00 pm
- Friday & Saturday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Prices of Tickets
- Adults: $18
- With Military ID: $16
- Children (ages 7-12): $14
- Children (ages 3-6): $6.00
Additional Info
- Must be 56 inches tall to ride alone.
- You can get extra rides on the same day for $10 each after your first ride.
- Pregnant women can’t ride for safety reasons.
- The cart can carry up to 375 pounds in dry and 330 pounds in wet conditions.
- Must be at least 38 inches tall and 3 years old to ride with someone at least 16.
- The passenger must be 16 years old.
Group Ticket
For groups with 15 or more people, it’s $12.00 per person for those aged 7 and older.
Re-ride Ticket
- Both adults and children can ride again for $8 if they have their receipts from earlier in the day.
Check the official website or contact Smoky Alpine sled for the latest prices and ticket details.
Location
867 Wears Valley Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Thrill and safety features
The Smoky Mountains Alpine Coaster is for people who love excitement and safety. It has a special braking system lets you decide how fast you want to go. So, whether you’re a brave person who wants to go fast or prefers to take it easy, this sled is for you.
Safety is important at the Smoky Mountains Alpine Coaster. They give everyone a safety harness and show them how to use it. The sled track is checked often to make sure it’s safe. So, you can have fun on the ride knowing they care a lot about keeping you safe.
Nearby attractions and activities around the Alpine coaster in smoky mountains
While the alpine roller coaster smoky mountains is cool, there’s much more to do there. Here are some things you can check out:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
It’s the most popular national park in the U.S. You can see lots of different animals and beautiful scenery there.
Hiking
Put on your hiking boots and explore the trails. There are trails for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced.
Scenic drives
Take a nice drive through the pretty roads of the Smoky Mountains. You’ll see amazing views everywhere you go.
Watching wildlife
Keep an eye out for all the different animals in the Smoky Mountains, like bears, deer, elk, and more.
Zip-lining
For an extra thrill, try zip-lining through the trees to get a great view of the mountains from above.
How to get to the alpine coaster smoky mountains
Getting to the Smoky Alpine sled is simple, no matter where you start. Here’s how you can get there:
- By car: The sled is close to big roads, so it’s easy to get to by car. There’s also parking there.
- Public transportation: If you want to avoid driving, look for a bus or shuttle that goes there.
- Ride-sharing: Use apps like Uber or Lyft for an easy and dependable way to get to the alpine roller coaster smoky mountains.
Tips
- During busy times, like 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in peak season, you might have to wait about 30 minutes. It’s better to go early or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Most people like it so much that they ride again. If you think you’ll want to ride again, you can buy a pack of tickets that never expire, saving you some money.
- If you’re feeling brave, you can ride even if it’s raining or snowing because the brakes still work well.
Conclusion
They give you an exciting adventure that mixes the fun of a roller sled with the pretty views of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re looking for a thrill or just want to see the beautiful scenery, this ride has something for everyone. So, bring your friends and family, or even yourself, and prepare for an amazing experience. You’ll make memories you’ll never forget at the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster!
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q1: Is there an age or height requirement to ride the alpine coaster smoky mountains?
The sled is fun for everyone, but younger riders might have to be a certain height. You can find out all the rules on the official website.
Q2: Can I ride the coaster if I have a medical condition?
The sled is usually safe for most people. But if you have a medical issue, you should talk to your doctor before you ride.
Q3: Is it a long ride?
The track is over a mile long, and it usually takes about 7-8 minutes to finish the ride.
Q4: Are there any discounts or promotions available?
Sometimes, the alpine sled smoky mountains has special discounts and deals. Look at their website or social media to see if anything is happening right now.
Q5: Can I bring my camera or GoPro on the ride?
Yes, you can bring your camera or GoPro on the ride. Just make sure it’s attached well and won’t get in the way of the safety harness.
Q6: How fast is the ride?
The sled can go up to 30 miles per hour, but you can control the speed as you ride.
Q7: When is the alpine roller coaster smoky mountains open?
It’s open every day, rain or shine. The brakes work the same in any weather, so it usually stays open even if it’s raining, sunny, or snowy. However, extreme weather might affect the hours.
Q8: Is the alpine coaster in smoky mountains open year-round?
Yes, the sled is open all year, but it might close temporarily if the weather is bad.