The Top 4 Exhilarating Coasters in the Smoky Mountains
Published Dec 19, 2022
Strap in for thrills on a Smoky Mountains alpine coaster. On these unpowered “gravity coasters,” you start at the top of a hill, hop into a one- or two-person coaster car, and let gravity do the work as you glide downhill on an elevated track. You control your speed, so each ride is as hair-raising or gentle as you want. Try these four breathtaking coasters.
1. WILD STALLION MOUNTAIN COASTER AT SKYLAND RANCH
Check out the newest coaster in the Smokies! SkyLand Ranch debuted the Wild Stallion in late 2022. The Wild Stallion claims the title of longest mountain coaster in the Southeast, at 1.25 miles of swerving, curving track. This ride treats you to more than eight minutes of downhill time! Control your speed as you take in the scenic mountain views by day or the glittering lights of Pigeon Forge by night.
2. ROCKY TOP MOUNTAIN COASTER
Four-themed tunnels add surprises to the nine-minute ride on Rocky Top Mountain Coaster. Head downhill up to 30 miles an hour. Rocky Top features four uplifts–more than any other mountain coaster–to boost faster descents. You’ll love the 360-degree turns, looping you in a full circle. Rocky Top’s night rides let you speed downhill after dark.
3. ANAKEESTA’S RAIL RUNNER
Visit the mountaintop theme park Anakeesta to try this single-rail coaster, the first of its kind in the country. The Rail Runner winds smoothly downhill at up to 25 miles per hour, with a 400-foot change in elevation. The carts feature backrests for an extra comfortable ride for one or two riders. When you’re done, enjoy beautiful views on an uphill ride to the top of the mountain.
4. MOONSHINE MOUNTAIN COASTER
Moonshine Mountain features a leafy trip, zipping you down the mountainside through the thick forest. You’ll feel like a bird tilting and turning around the trees! Use your brakes for a slower trip, or choose a faster run. This freshly upgraded coaster is close to Gatlinburg’s downtown and offers day and night runs and solo or tandem rides.
Ask at each coaster about discounts for military and first responders, and check out special holiday prices too. Many coasters run in all weather conditions, but check before you head out.
After your thrill ride, head back to your Smoky Mountains vacation cabin to relax! Book a Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin today.
