No doubt one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains is ride a mountain coaster. The thrilling twists and turns, stomach-plunging drops, incredible speeds, and scenic views make this activity a bucket list adventure for kids, teens, and adults! Read on to discover the top mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:
Mountain Coasters in Gatlinburg
Moonshine Mountain Coaster : An uphill lift takes you to the top of the mountain, where you’ll then fly down on the near-silent track. Single and double-rider cars are available.
Ride requirements: must be 56 inches tall to ride alone; the minimum height requirement is 38 inches tall (and 3 years old) to ride with someone at least 16 years of age.
Ripley’s Mountain Coaster : It’s everything you could want in a coaster ride– a self-operated, gravity-propelled cart on a one-of-a-kind track!
Ride requirements: must be at least 10 years old and 54 inches tall to ride solo; those under 10 must be at least 38 inches tall and accompanied by someone at least 16 years old.
Coaster Pass at Anakeesta : The coaster pass gets you access to both Rail Runner , the first and only single-rail coaster in the U.S., and Hellbender , one of the newest and most exciting mountain coasters in Gatlinburg.
Rail Runner ride requirements: must be 48 inches tall to ride solo and at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall to ride as a passenger with a driver.
Hellbender ride requirements: must be 54 inches tall to ride solo and at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall to ride as a passenger with a driver. Tennessee Flyer at Ober Mountain : Choose to spend the 5.5-minute ride zipping along the curves or leisurely riding along the track high in the mountains.
Ride requirements: must be 9 years old and 52 inches tall to ride alone; those 8 and under must be at least 36 inches tall to ride with someone 18 years or older.
Mountain Coasters in Pigeon Forge
Coaster at Goats on the Roof : This coaster is the most popular activity at this attraction…after the goats, of course! Enjoy the smooth 7-minute ride– the adrenaline will be coursing through your veins from start to finish.
Ride requirements: must be 54 inches tall to ride alone; the minimum height requirement is 38 inches tall (and 3 years old) to ride with someone at least 16 years of age. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster : Get ready to ride the hill and feel the thrill! The track is over a mile long and can operate rain or shine (or snow).
Ride requirements: must be 56 inches tall to ride solo and 38 inches tall (and 3 years of age) to ride with someone at least 16 years old. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster : Nearly 10 minutes long, this is one of the longest mountain coaster rides in Tennessee! Also, they’re open late, until 11 PM or midnight on some nights. Experiencing the ride at night is extra special!
Ride requirements: must be 56 inches tall to ride solo and 38 inches tall (and 3 years of age) to ride with someone at least 16 years old.
Lost Mine Mountain Coaster : Our list of the best mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this one! Reach speeds of over 30 mph at this immersive-themed experience. They also have a mini golf course!
Ride requirements: must be 54 inches tall to ride solo and at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall to ride with an adult.
Where To Stay
Book a hotel room designed with your comfort in mind. Here at our Gatlinburg hotel on the river , we take great pride in our custom hickory furniture, premium bedding, accessible bathrooms, private balconies, and other luxurious amenities, not to mention our outdoor pool and prime location!
Take a look at our Gatlinburg hotel rooms to find the right one for your family. When you stay with us, you’re just minutes away from these awesome mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, plus all the other unique dining, shopping, and entertainment options in the Smokies! We can’t wait for you to experience it!
