The Ultimate Guide to the Mountain Coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

The Smoky Mountains have quickly become the mountain coaster capital of the world with more of these action-packed rides than anywhere else! If you are new to mountain coasters, these unique attractions are a type of roller coaster where a bobsled style cart is attached to a steel track and the speed is controlled by the rider. Here are 7 thrilling mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge you need to experience during your vacation:

1. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster

The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is located on Wears Valley Road in Pigeon Forge and features a circuit more than 1 mile long! The entire ride takes about 7 to 8 minutes to complete, depending upon your speed down the mountain. Apply the brakes gently for a leisurely ride or go full throttle for a breathtaking adventure through the dips, twists, and turns! The vehicles can comfortably accommodate 2 riders, so you can choose to ride solo or with a partner.

2. Coaster at Goats on the Roof

Another one of the thrilling mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is the Coaster at Goats on the Roof, which is on Wears Valley Road just past the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster. During your exciting journey through the hills of Tennessee, you will reach speeds just under 30 miles per hour! Keep in mind that the sensation of speed is greatly enhanced since the track is just inches off the ground.

3. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster

While most mountain coasters feature one lift hill, the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster is unique because it features a series of 4 lift hills and 4 drops! As you ride during the daylight hours, enjoy the magnificent scenery as you cruise along the steel track. The night rides are even more spectacular as the special track lighting guides you through your action-packed excursion. The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster is located at 2940 Veterans Boulevard in Pigeon Forge.

4. Rowdy Bear Coaster

The Rowdy Bear Coaster at Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park in Gatlinburg reaches speeds up to 35 miles per hour as it winds through the woods! Don’t let inclement weather stop you from riding as this attraction operates in the rain, sleet, and even snow! The Rowdy Bear Coaster features the latest intelligent Distance Control System on the coaster carts which prevents the carts from coming in contact with one another.

5. Ski Mountain Coaster

If you are planning to visit Ober Gatlinburg during your vacation, don’t miss a ride on the Ski Mountain Coaster! As one of the most scenic mountain coasters in Gatlinburg, this ride starts with a 1,000-foot, tree-covered relaxing ride to the top. After enjoying the beautiful views, prepare for your journey back down as you experience the next 2,750 feet of turns, zig zags, corkscrews, and G-force adventures!

6. Moonshine Mountain Coaster

Hold on tight for a ride on the Moonshine Mountain Coaster, which is just off the Parkway at traffic light #2. There is no uphill climbing required as the lift system gently carries you to the top of the mountain, so take a few moments to admire the surrounding scenery. Once you reach the top, you are off on the downhill portion where you will race up and over the forest floor with lots of twists, curves, and surprises!

7. Rail Runner

The Rail Runner at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg is undoubtedly the most unique mountain coaster in the Smoky Mountains because it is the only one that features a single rail line. In fact, the Rail Runner is the first mountain coaster of its kind in the United States. The single rail allows you to ride even lower to the ground, so you will truly feel as you if you racing through the trees on your way down the mountain!

Check out all of our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals today to enjoy a fabulous vacation near these thrilling mountain coasters in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge! We look forward to seeing you soon!