When planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, you’re likely thinking about scenic drives, delicious food, and family-friendly attractions. But if you’re a coaster lover or an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a unique way to experience the stunning mountain landscape, you can’t miss the region’s incredible mountain coasters.

Pigeon Forge and the surrounding areas have become a hub for these gravity-fed rides, each offering its own twist on the thrilling experience. Unlike traditional roller coasters, you are in control of your speed, allowing you to choose between a heart-pounding race down the mountain or a leisurely, scenic cruise. Here’s a rundown of the must-ride mountain coasters in the area.

Pigeon Forge’s Top Coasters

• Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster: This coaster claims to be the longest downhill ride in the United States. With over a mile of track and a ride that can last up to 8 minutes, it’s a fantastic option for those who want a long, winding adventure. Located on Wears Valley Road, it’s a classic for a reason.
• Goats on the Roof Coaster: Yes, you read that right. This is a mountain coaster with actual goats living on the roof of the gift shop! The coaster itself is nearly a mile long and offers plenty of twists and turns. After your ride, you can feed the goats and enjoy other family-friendly activities. It’s a truly unique Pigeon Forge experience.
• Rocky Top Mountain Coaster: Get ready for a ride that just keeps going. The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster is known for being the longest coaster in Eastern Tennessee. It winds across 20 acres of land, featuring four lift hills and multiple tunnels and drops. The nighttime rides, with the track lit up, are a must-try.
• Lost Mine Mountain Coaster: This coaster and mini-golf combo offers a whimsical, themed adventure. The coaster has a honey-mining bear theme, with four lifts and four drops. It’s the perfect spot for families, as you can also enjoy an 18-hole mini-golf course.
• Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster: If you have a need for speed and some friendly competition, this is the coaster for you. As a side-by-side racing coaster, it’s the first of its kind in the US, allowing you to go head-to-head with friends or family on parallel tracks as you race to the finish line.
• Avalanche Snow Coaster: Located at Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark, this is a unique two-seater alpine coaster. It allows you to ride side-by-side with a partner and control your speed with a throttle. It’s less of a traditional coaster and more of a go-kart on a rail, offering a thrilling, high-speed ride.

Gatlinburg’s Top Coasters

• Tennessee Flyer Mountain Coaster: Located at the top of Ober Mountain, this coaster offers a fantastic ride with beautiful scenery. You can ride solo or with a partner and take in the panoramic views of Gatlinburg as you navigate the curves and dips of the 2,750-foot track.Don’t Forget Sevierville!
• Ripley’s Mountain Coaster: Located right off the Parkway, this coaster offers spectacular views for either single or double riders. This was formerly known as the Rowdy Bear coaster with speeds reported to be as high as 35 mph!
• Moonshine Mountain Coaster: This coaster is known for its incredible speed and nighttime light show. As Gatlinburg’s first mountain coaster, it offers a thrilling ride with plenty of twists and turns. Be sure to check it out after sunset for a completely different and dazzling experience.
• Rail Runner: Found at the mountaintop adventure park, Anakeesta, this is a unique coaster experience. As the first of its kind in the United States, it is a single-rail coaster that puts you low to the ground, making the feeling of speed even more intense. The ticket for this ride is an add-on to your Anakeesta admission.
• Hellbender: Also found at Anakeesta, this coaster promises to deliver heart-racing twists, gravity-defying drops, and awe-inspiring scenic vistas in a more traditional mountain coaster setup than Rail Runner. The ticket for this ride is also an add-on to your Anakeesta admission and can be gotten as part of a “coaster pass” so you can experience both coasters.

Sevierville’s Top Coaster

• The Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster: Located at SkyLand Ranch, this coaster is the longest mountain coaster in the Southeast at 1.25 miles. With an 8+ minute ride, it provides stunning views of the town below and the surrounding Smoky Mountains. You can ride during the day for the scenery or at night to see the sparkling city lights. Just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, Sevierville’s Will Stallion offers a mountain coaster that is worth the trip.

Tips for Your Coaster Adventure

• Check Height & Age Requirements: Most coasters have height and age requirements for both solo riders and those riding with an adult. Some also have maximum weights which is especially pertinent if you’re riding with a partner. Be sure to check online before you go.
• Day vs. Night Rides: Riding a mountain coaster during the day offers spectacular panoramic views of the mountains. At night, the tracks are often lit up, creating a completely different and magical experience. Many riders recommend trying both!
• Dress for Comfort: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Also, be sure to secure any loose items like hats, glasses, or phones before your ride. These coasters often run in cold, rain and even snow, so if you’re visiting in the colder months dress accordingly and bring gloves.
• Check for Combos and Discounts: Many of these attractions offer combo tickets that include other activities, like mini-golf or other rides, which can be a great way to save money. You’ll also find discounts places like Groupon or in the discount coupon books found at welcome centers, hotels and other places around town.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a new perspective on the Smoky Mountains, the mountain coasters of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville are an unforgettable part of your vacation. You may be in town to visit Dollywood or the Smoky Mountains, but a mountain coaster can be a cheap and fun 30-60 minute adventure. Buckle up and get ready to “ride the hill and feel the thrill!”