Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Experience the longest downhill track in the US! Control your speed on this thrilling alpine coaster through scenic Smoky Mountain terrain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Shorter lines, cooler temps
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Best Time
Shorter lines, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the longest downhill track in the US! Control your speed on this thrilling alpine coaster through scenic Smoky Mountain terrain.
"It was such a rush and so much fun that we went back again to experience the track at dusk — and it was even better!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Shorter Lines
Beat the crowds by arriving right at opening time. Waits can get long by mid-morning!
💡 Control Your Speed
You control your own speed with brakes. Go as fast or slow as you like for a personalized thrill!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Longest Downhill Track
Pigeon Forge, TN
Experience the thrill of the longest downhill track in the United States, winding through scenic mountain terrain.
User-Controlled Speed
On the coaster cart
Take the reins and control your own speed, from a leisurely pace to exhilarating descents.
Night Rides with Lights
On the coaster track
Enjoy a magical ride after dark, with the track illuminated by colorful lights for a unique perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Go Early or Late
Control Your Thrill Level
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Shorter Lines
Beat the crowds by arriving right at opening time. Waits can get long by mid-morning!
💡 Control Your Speed
You control your own speed with brakes. Go as fast or slow as you like for a personalized thrill!
🌙 Experience the Night Ride
Riding at night with the track lights is a magical experience and often less crowded.
💰 Look for Deals
Check Groupon for potential discounts on tickets. Military discounts may also be available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Shorter Lines
Beat the crowds by arriving right at opening time. Waits can get long by mid-morning!
💡 Control Your Speed
You control your own speed with brakes. Go as fast or slow as you like for a personalized thrill!
🌙 Experience the Night Ride
Riding at night with the track lights is a magical experience and often less crowded.
💰 Look for Deals
Check Groupon for potential discounts on tickets. Military discounts may also be available.
📸 Secure Your Phone
While you can take photos, ensure your phone is securely strapped around your neck to avoid losing it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster for its thrilling, scenic ride and the unique ability to control speed. The long track and the option for night rides with lights are major highlights, making it a highly recommended attraction for families and thrill-seekers alike. Some minor drawbacks include potential wait times during peak hours and the need for caution when taking photos.
"This alpine coaster delivers a genuinely fun and scenic experience. The ride begins with a slow, steady pull uphill that lasts a few minutes, giving you time to take in the mountain surroundings. Once you reach the top, you begin a downhill descent that lasts about three minutes, weaving through a series of sharp turns and curves.
You control your own speed using manual brakes, though it’s worth noting that you can only slow down—you can’t go faster than the set pace. This makes it a great option for both thrill-seekers and more cautious riders, as you can adjust based on your comfort level. The track is smooth, well-maintained, and winds through wooded hills, adding to the excitement and immersion.
One important tip: arrive right at opening time, around 10 AM. Crowds build quickly, and by mid-morning the wait can become quite long. Early arrival means not only shorter lines but also cooler temperatures before the sun gets too intense. Overall, it’s a well-run attraction with a great mix of adrenaline and control. Highly recommended for families and anyone looking for a unique mountain ride."
Dmitriy Mykalo
"We were so nervous at first, but this turned out to be such a blast! While we knew the weight wasn’t an issue, we’re still considered “thick” and lord… at one point I was going so fast I thought for sure I was about to jump the tracks…lol. It was such a rush and so much fun that we went back again to experience the track at dusk — and it was even better!
The staff was friendly, the ride was smooth, and being able to control your own speed made it perfect for both thrill seekers and those who just want to enjoy the views. Highly recommend if you’re in the area."
Felicia
"We went early in the morning so there was no wait. It was fun and fast. It was a good long ride for your money. We bought a Groupon deal that helped with pricing. They do have a military discount at the register. You're not supposed to take pictures or a camera. As you may lose your phone. I had mine strapped around my neck. And got a nice memory of our ride the kids like to look back on."
Nancy D.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular attraction in the area, often mentioned alongside other Gatlinburg and Sevierville activities. +1
Yes, parking is available at the attraction. It's recommended to arrive early, especially during peak times, to secure a spot and minimize wait times.
Yes, you can use GPS to navigate to the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster. It's a well-known landmark in Pigeon Forge, so most navigation apps will easily find it.
While driving is common, Pigeon Forge also has a trolley system that can be a convenient way to get around and visit various attractions, including the alpine coaster.
Yes, it's located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, making it convenient to visit other popular spots like Dollywood or The Island in Pigeon Forge.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally around $18 for adults and $14 for children. It's always a good idea to check their official website or look for deals.
Yes, look for deals on platforms like Groupon for potential savings. Military discounts may also be available at the ticket counter.
While advance purchase might be an option, many visitors opt to buy tickets on-site. Arriving early is key to avoiding long lines regardless of purchase method.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information, but they typically open around 10 AM.
While specific requirements aren't always detailed online, generally, children may need to ride with an adult. The coaster is designed for a wide range of ages.
🎫 🎢 Onsite Experience
The ride itself lasts approximately 7-8 minutes, with the uphill portion taking a few minutes and the downhill descent around three minutes.
Absolutely! You control your speed using manual brakes. You can slow down as much as you like, making it suitable for all comfort levels.
The carts are designed for either a single rider or two people, making it a great experience to share with a friend or family member. +1
It offers a thrilling experience, but since you control the speed, you can adjust it to your comfort level. Many find it exhilarating rather than terrifying.
The coaster winds through wooded hills, offering scenic views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. Night rides provide a unique illuminated perspective.
📸 📸 Photography & Videography
While some visitors have managed to take photos with phones securely strapped, it's generally advised to be cautious. Losing your phone is a risk.
The official stance often discourages loose cameras or phones to ensure safety. It's best to secure any device very well if you choose to bring it.
Consider taking photos before and after your ride. The views from the loading area and the surrounding scenery are also great photo opportunities.
Some attractions offer professional photo packages. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter or upon arrival if this is something you're interested in.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for photos. Night rides offer a unique, illuminated landscape for photography if you can safely manage your device.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider riding together in a two-person cart for a shared adventure. Arriving early is crucial to minimize wait times, which can be challenging with younger children. The ride's duration is engaging without being too long, making it perfect for keeping kids entertained.
💰 Budget Travelers
Also, inquire about any available discounts at the ticket counter, such as military or group rates. Visiting during off-peak hours or seasons might also lead to slightly lower prices or fewer crowds, indirectly saving you time and potential frustration.
💑 Couples
Opting for a dusk or night ride can add a romantic element, with the illuminated track creating a unique ambiance. It's a great activity for a date night or a fun way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Smokies together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Alpine Coaster Experience
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is particularly notable for being the longest downhill track in the United States. The ride typically lasts around 7-8 minutes, with a significant portion dedicated to the thrilling downhill journey. The carts are designed to accommodate either one or two people, making it a fun activity for solo adventurers or pairs.
Many visitors rave about the ability to control their speed, finding it perfect for both adrenaline junkies and those who prefer a more relaxed pace. The smooth track and the immersive experience of weaving through the natural landscape are frequently highlighted as major draws.
Night Rides: A Different Perspective
Many visitors find the night ride to be even more enjoyable than a daytime ride, citing the enchanting atmosphere and the thrill of navigating the twists and turns under the glow of lights. It's often recommended as a must-do for those looking for a memorable evening activity in the Smokies.
While the core experience remains the same, the ambiance of a night ride adds an extra layer of excitement. It's a fantastic way to cap off a day of exploring Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg, offering a unique blend of adventure and visual delight.
Comparing Mountain Coasters in the Smokies
Reddit discussions often highlight a preference for certain coasters based on factors like track layout, scenery, and overall ride experience. Some users mention the Rail Runner at Anakeesta as a favorite, while others point to the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster for its sheer length.
When choosing, consider what you prioritize: the longest ride, unique theming, or a specific location. Many of these coasters offer a similar core experience of controlled descent through natural landscapes, ensuring a fun time regardless of your choice.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit