Are you a roller coaster enthusiast looking for a thrill? Look no further than the Smoky Mountains! With two top-notch theme parks, Dollywood and Anakeesta, there are plenty of heart-pumping rides to satisfy any adrenaline junkie. Here are 10 of the best roller coaster and theme park rides to try when you visit the Smokies:
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Lightning Rod - It is an electrifying roller coaster ride at Dollywood amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This adrenaline-fueled ride is themed after a 1950s hot rod, and it's the world's first wooden roller coaster to feature a launch system. With a top speed of 73 miles per hour, it's also the fastest wooden coaster in the world. The ride starts with a heart-pumping launch that propels riders up the first hill, where they are treated to stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The track features multiple drops, twists, and turns, including a 165-foot drop and a 90-degree banked turn. Riders experience both positive and negative G-forces as they race through the course, which spans more than 3,800 feet. With its high-speed thrills and innovative design, Lightning Rod is a must-ride for roller coaster enthusiasts visiting Dollywood.
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Wild Eagle - This unique ride is the first and only wing coaster in the United States, featuring seats that are located on either side of the track instead of above or below it. Riders are suspended from the track, giving them a feeling of flight as they twist and turn through the air. The coaster's signature feature is its 135-foot drop, which provides a breathtaking view of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. The ride reaches speeds of up to 61 miles per hour, and features multiple inversions, including a 110-foot loop and a zero-gravity roll. With its smooth ride and stunning views, Wild Eagle is a must-ride for thrill-seekers visiting Dollywood.
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Thunderhead - It is widely considered one of the thrilling and best wooden coasters in the world, and has won numerous awards since it opened in 2004. The ride features a 100-foot drop and reaches speeds of up to 55 miles per hour, taking riders on a wild journey through the Great Smoky Mountains. The coaster features a series of tight twists, turns, and drops that provide an intense, exhilarating ride. The track is made of hand-laid wood, which adds to the coaster's unique character and creates a thrilling, nostalgic experience. With its high speeds and steep drops, Thunderhead is a must-ride for roller coaster enthusiasts visiting Dollywood.
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FireChaser Express - It is a family-friendly coaster in Dollywood that is perfect for both kids and adults, and offers a thrilling yet accessible experience. The coaster is designed to simulate the experience of fighting a wildfire, and takes riders on a journey through the Great Smoky Mountains. The ride starts off with a gentle climb through a dense forest, before suddenly launching riders into a series of twists, turns, and drops. The coaster reaches a top speed of 35 miles per hour, providing a thrilling experience without being too intense. Along the way, riders encounter special effects like fire blasts and smoke effects, adding to the coaster's immersive theming. FireChaser Express is a unique coaster that combines family-friendly thrills with a creative and immersive theme.
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Mystery Mine - The coaster is designed to resemble an abandoned coal mine, with riders taking on the role of miners on a dangerous adventure deep underground. The coaster starts off with a slow climb up a steep incline, before suddenly plunging riders into darkness and a series of thrilling drops, twists, and turns. Along the way, riders encounter a variety of special effects like sudden blasts of air and bursts of steam, adding to the coaster's immersive theming. The ride features unique elements like a vertical lift and a 95-degree drop, providing a truly thrilling experience. The coaster also features on-board audio and lighting effects, further adding to the immersive experience.
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AnaVista Tower - The tower stands at an impressive 55 feet tall and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains. Visitors can access the tower via an elevator ride, which takes them to the top in just a matter of seconds. Once at the top, visitors can step out onto the tower's observation deck, which features 360-degree views of the mountains and surrounding landscapes. The deck is enclosed with floor-to-ceiling glass panels, allowing for uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery. The tower is also equipped with a variety of interactive exhibits, including touch-screen displays that provide information about the history and geography of the region. Visitors can also take advantage of photo opportunities at the tower, including a "selfie spot" that provides a perfect backdrop of the mountains. Anavista Tower is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains from a unique and unforgettable perspective.
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Rail Runner - The coaster takes riders on a thrilling journey through the lush forests and beautiful landscapes of the Smoky Mountains. The ride begins with a scenic ascent up the mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Once at the top, riders will take control of their own individual carts, which they can control the speed of as they race down the twisting and turning track. The coaster track features sudden drops, sharp turns, and even a few surprise elements that add to the excitement and thrill of the ride. Riders can choose to take it slow and enjoy the scenery or go full throttle for a wild and heart-pumping experience. The Rail Runner coaster is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking for a fun and exhilarating adventure in the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
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Dueling Zipline Adventure - The adventure begins with a scenic chairlift ride to the top of Anakeesta Mountain, where the zipline course starts. The course is designed for two people to race each other side-by-side on separate lines. The course includes three different ziplines, each ranging in length from 600 to 1,000 feet. As you soar through the air at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The course is designed with safety in mind, with state-of-the-art harnesses and a professional guide who will provide instructions and guidance throughout the adventure. The Dueling Zipline Adventure at Anakeesta is a thrilling and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
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The Smoky Alpine Coaster - This thrilling outdoor attraction is located in Pigeon Forge. This unique ride combines the excitement of a roller coaster with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The coaster cars are designed for one or two riders, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of the ride together. The ride features multiple drops, twists, and turns, as well as breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. The track is over a mile long, and riders control their speed with individual brakes. With its blend of adventure and scenery, the Smoky Alpine Coaster is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience in the Smoky Mountains.
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Mountain Coaster - The Mountain Coaster at Anakeesta is a thrilling ride that takes you on a winding journey through the forested mountainside of the Smokies. The coaster carts are designed for one or two riders, with the ability to control your own speed by using the brake handle. The ride begins with a scenic ride up to the top of Anakeesta Mountain on a chairlift. Once you reach the top, you'll board your coaster cart and begin the exciting descent down the mountain. The coaster follows a twisting and turning track, with speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. As you zoom through the forest, you'll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The coaster is designed with safety in mind, with seat belts and a braking system to ensure a fun and secure ride.
Whether you're a coaster fanatic or just looking for a fun day out with the family, these rides and attractions are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. So what are you waiting for? Come to the Smokies and get ready for a thrilling ride!