Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster - film photo (zenit 11)
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Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

4.6
·6k reviews·Gatlinburg, United States

Experience the thrill of a mountain coaster in Gatlinburg, TN! Control your speed as you zip through forests, with magical night rides.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, magical lights

CrowdLow
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Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster - film photo (zenit 11)

Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, magical lights

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the thrill of a mountain coaster in Gatlinburg, TN! Control your speed as you zip through forests, with magical night rides.

4.6
(6k reviews)

"This was an amazingly thrilling, fast coaster you're on alone, or with a younger person in front of you!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Ride at Night!

Many find night rides magical with lights. ✨

💰 Look for Deals

Groupon can offer significant savings on tickets. 💸

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Night Ride Magic

Night Ride Magic

Various Coasters

Experience the thrill under a canopy of lights, transforming the mountain coaster ride into a dazzling spectacle.

Individual Speed Control

Individual Speed Control

All Mountain Coasters

Take the reins and dictate your own pace, from breakneck speeds to a more leisurely scenic journey.

Single Rail Thrills

Single Rail Thrills

Anakeesta's Rail Runner

America's first and only single rail mountain coaster offers a unique, thrilling perspective.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays or evenings. Many visitors recommend riding at night for a magical experience with lights. Booking in advance isn't always necessary, but be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

Control Your Thrill

These mountain coasters offer individual control over speed. You can choose to go full throttle or take it slow, making it suitable for various thrill-seekers. Staff are often accommodating to those who are nervous.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, magical lights
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temps, shorter lines
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

It def said “slow down” 🥴🤷🏼‍♂️ #DailyVlog #gatlinburg #tennessee #mountaincoaster
@okccaleb
1.5M likes • 7.3M views

🎯 Ride at Night!

Many find night rides magical with lights. ✨ TikTokInstagram

💰 Look for Deals

Groupon can offer significant savings on tickets. 💸 Reddit

i have always wanted to do this #mountaincoaster #mountainactivities #obermountain #gatlinburg #greatsmokymountains #bucketlist #thrillride
@queen.lena
248.6K likes • 2.2M views
Mountain coasters are real fun at night, especially when they have lighting like the Moonshine Mountain Coaster in Gatlinburg Tennessee. #mountains #moonshine #rollercoasterphotography #tennesseephotographer #tennessee #gatlinburg #pigeonforge #rollercoaster #amusementpark #themepark #travelphotography #travel #smokymountains
coaster_ninja_
127 likes • 2.2K views

🚦 Control Your Speed

You control the brakes! Go as fast or slow as you like. 🏎️ TikTokReddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Accommodating Staff

Staff are friendly and can adjust for nervous riders. 😊 Reddit

There’s a new mountain coaster in The Great Smoky Mountains!⛰️🎢 Located @anakeesta, one of my favorite spots in Gatlinburg, TN. This being Anakeesta’s second mountain coaster😍. @visitgatlinburg #anakeesta #thegreatsmokymountains #gatlinburg #visitgatlinburg #smokymountains #mountaincoaster #mountainviews #gatlinburgtennessee #tnvacation #travelgram #gatlinburgtn #mountainvibes #pigeonforge #pige...
pixiedustedfun
596 likes • 48.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Ride at Night!

Many find night rides magical with lights. ✨ TikTokInstagram

💰 Look for Deals

Groupon can offer significant savings on tickets. 💸 Reddit

🚦 Control Your Speed

You control the brakes! Go as fast or slow as you like. 🏎️ TikTokReddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Accommodating Staff

Staff are friendly and can adjust for nervous riders. 😊 Reddit

📸 Photo Ops

Professional photos are often available after your ride. 📸 Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster for its thrilling ride and the ability to control speed. The night rides, illuminated by colorful lights, are a particular highlight. While the ride itself is short, the overall experience is highly enjoyable, with friendly staff enhancing the visit. Some guests note that wait times can be long, impacting the overall value for money.

"Did this coaster at night and it was very fun. I was able to get tickets on Groupon for just under $13, which helped. The overall ride is about 3 minutes up and 2 minutes down if you're going full throttle.

The coasters and track look to be very well maintained and the staff is friendly and helpful."

Ryan Snyder

"This was an amazingly thrilling, fast coaster you're on alone, or with a younger person in front of you! You buckle up, and sit back as you get pulled up a couple of hills then it tells you to push the handle forward, and you go speeding at a breakneck speed around curves with signs saying 80 ft drop!! Excellent fun!!! Don't brake, you're not flying into the forest anytime soon!! Everyone is really friendly and helpful, and there are pictures after!! Have fun!!!"

S S

"I was a bit nervous about riding. The manager was walking by and noticed my fear. He was amazing talking to me. He explained the ride and all its features. He even told the guy who loaded me to leave more room behind me cause I will prolly go slow.
I was hooked after the 1st ride. I rode 2 more times. Its max speed went 29mph. You control it. You can stop it. Would definitely recommend. At night they have colorful lights to ride through."

Christy Goff

What People Like

Individual speed control
Fun night rides
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Long wait times
Short ride duration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is conveniently located at 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.TikTok It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for those exploring the Gatlinburg area. Parking is usually available on-site or nearby.

Yes, parking is typically available at the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster. However, during peak seasons or times, it can fill up quickly. Consider arriving early or exploring nearby parking options if the main lot is full.

If you are staying in downtown Gatlinburg, you may be able to walk to the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster, as it's located on the Parkway. Check your accommodation's proximity to plan your walk.

Yes, Gatlinburg and the surrounding Pigeon Forge area have several mountain coasters. Popular options include Anakeesta's Rail Runner, Moonshine Mountain Coaster, and Rocky Top Mountain Coaster.Instagram

Many visitors use their own vehicles to get between different attractions. Some areas are walkable, but a car offers the most flexibility for visiting multiple mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but many visitors report paying around $13 on Groupon.Reddit Standard ticket prices are generally higher. It's always a good idea to check their official website or look for deals before you go.

While you can buy tickets in advance, some reviews suggest it's not always necessary and you might still face long lines. Waiting to purchase on-site can sometimes be just as efficient, especially if you're flexible with your timing.Reddit

Yes, discounts are often available through sites like Groupon.Reddit Some locations also offer discounted re-ride tickets if you fall in love with the experience and want to go again!

Operating hours can vary seasonally. Many mountain coasters in Gatlinburg are open both during the day and into the night, with night rides being a popular choice for the illuminated experience.TikTokInstagram

Yes, most mountain coaster carts are designed to accommodate two people, allowing riders to share the experience. Some are single-rider carts, like Anakeesta's Rail Runner.TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎢 Onsite Experience

The actual ride time for most mountain coasters is around 2-3 minutes for the downhill portion, with a longer ascent. The total experience, including boarding and disembarking, can take longer due to wait times.Reddit

Absolutely! You have control over your speed using a braking system. You can choose to go full throttle or slow down as much as you like, making it suitable for all thrill levels.TikTokReddit

It can be thrilling! Speeds can reach up to 25-29 mph,InstagramReddit with drops and curves. However, you control the speed, and staff are very helpful if you're feeling nervous.Reddit

Mountain coasters are typically built into the natural terrain, allowing riders to control their speed. Traditional roller coasters have fixed tracks and predetermined speeds and movements.

While specific restrictions vary by coaster, generally, there are minimum height requirements for solo riders and sometimes for children riding with an adult. Weight limits also apply for safety. Check with the specific operator.

📸 📸 Photography

Many riders do take photos and videos, but be extremely careful as you control your speed and the cart can move quickly.TikTok Ensure your phone or camera is securely held. Some coasters may have restrictions, so check signage.

Most mountain coasters offer professional photo packages that capture you during the ride. These are usually available for purchase after your experience.Reddit

Riding at night offers a unique photographic opportunity with the illuminated tracks and surrounding lights.TikTokInstagram Daytime rides provide clear views of the Smoky Mountains scenery.

The ride itself offers stunning views. For photos of the coaster in action, look for vantage points along the track or from designated viewing areas, if available.

Professional photos typically capture you during a thrilling moment of the ride, often at high speed or on a scenic curve, showcasing your reaction and the coaster's environment.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mountain coasters in Gatlinburg are a fantastic family activity! Most carts accommodate two people, so parents can ride with younger children. The ability to control speed is a huge plus, allowing you to tailor the ride to your child's comfort level.Reddit Staff are known for being patient and helpful, ensuring everyone feels safe and has fun.Reddit Consider riding during the day for clear views of the Smokies, or at night for a dazzling light show.TikTokInstagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While mountain coasters can add up, savvy travelers can find deals. Look for Groupon offers, which can significantly reduce ticket prices.Reddit Riding during off-peak hours or weekdays might also mean shorter lines and a more relaxed experience. Some locations offer discounted re-ride tickets, which can be a great value if you want to experience the thrill again.

❤️ Couples & Thrill-Seekers

For couples, a mountain coaster ride offers a shared adrenaline rush and a fun, memorable experience. Riding at night with the lights is particularly romantic and exciting.TikTokInstagram Thrill-seekers will love the ability to reach speeds of up to 29 mph Reddit and navigate twists and turns. For an extra unique thrill, try Anakeesta's single-rail coaster.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Choosing Your Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster Adventure

Gatlinburg and its surrounding areas boast several mountain coasters, each offering a slightly different experience. Anakeesta's Rail Runner stands out as America's first and only single-rail mountain coaster, providing a unique, thrilling ride.Instagram For those seeking intensity, the Rail Runner at Anakeesta is often cited as one of the most thrilling.Reddit Other popular options include the Moonshine Mountain Coaster TikTokInstagram and the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster,Instagram which offer traditional dual-rail experiences through scenic mountain terrain.

When selecting a coaster, consider what you're looking for. Some, like the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, are known for their length.Reddit Many offer the option to ride at night, which transforms the experience with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere.TikTokInstagram Remember that while the core experience of controlling your speed is common across most, the track layout, length, and unique features like single-rail designs can differentiate them.

Key factors to consider when choosing include: the type of track (single vs. dual rail), the length of the ride, whether night rides are available and illuminated, and the overall intensity. Reading recent reviews and watching TikToks or Instagram Reels can give you a great sense of the vibe and thrill level of each specific coaster before you commit.

Mastering the Mountain Coaster Ride

The most exciting aspect of a Gatlinburg mountain coaster is the individual control over your speed.TikTokReddit Each cart is equipped with a braking system, allowing you to dictate how fast or slow you descend the mountain. This feature makes the experience accessible to a wide range of visitors, from thrill-seekers who want to go full throttle to those who prefer a more relaxed, scenic journey. Signs along the track often indicate recommended speeds or warn of upcoming drops, but ultimately, the decision is yours.

Many riders recommend not braking excessively to fully enjoy the thrill and speed. However, if you're feeling nervous, the staff are generally very accommodating and understanding. They can ensure there's ample space behind you, allowing you to go at your own pace without feeling rushed.Reddit This personalized approach ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.

For those looking for an extra thrill, consider riding at night. The mountain coasters often feature illuminated tracks, creating a spectacular visual experience as you zip through the forest.TikTokInstagram This adds a magical dimension to the ride, making it a memorable part of your Gatlinburg visit. Remember to secure your phone or camera if you plan to capture the experience, as the speeds can be exhilarating!

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