You can put yourself in the driver’s seat when you take a ride on an exhilarating Smoky Mountain coaster! They are unique because you can actually control your own speed as you soar around the twists and turns of the tracks. There are also plenty of scenic views for you to enjoy on the way down. Here are 5 of the best Smoky Mountain coasters that you just have to try!
1. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
If you’re looking for something to do a little later in the evening, you can always take a ride on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster! It’s open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. every other day of the week. Your adventure will begin as the uphill lift system carries you to the top of the coaster while you sit back and enjoy the view. From there, you’ll go soaring over the forest floor with lots of twists, curves, and surprises on a specially-designed, silent track.
2. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is consistently rated as one of the best coasters in the Smokies! It’s over one mile long, making it the longest downhill ride in the United States! This Smoky Mountain coaster takes about 7 to 8 minutes to complete with sleds that can go up to a maximum of 30 MPH. The sleds are also designed to comfortably carry 2 visitors but can be handled easily by one alone.
3. Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster
Another one of the best Smoky Mountain coasters is the Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster! This gravity propelled ride can reach up to 35 MPH as it winds through the woods. The carts have the latest Intelligent Distance Control System to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. You can either ride alone or with one of your kids, the choice is yours!
4. The Coaster at Goats on the Roof
You can embark on an exciting journey through the hills of Tennessee at speeds just under 30 MPH at The Coaster at Goats on the Roof! Whether you choose to pair up or ride alone, you’re sure to have a fantastic time. Each cart also has hand brakes so you can go a little slower if you’d like or zip along the track if you’re a speed demon!
5. Ober Gatlinburg’s Ski Mountain Coaster
The Ski Mountain Coaster begins with a 1000-foot, tree-covered ride to the top of a mountain. As it carries you uphill, you can kick back and enjoy the beautiful views in your comfortable cart. Once you reach the top, you can either begin soaring down the track at up to 25 MPH or take everything in while you leisurely cruise along at a slower pace. The higher backrests and shorter brake levers make controlling your cart super easy and fun! Once you’ve reached the end of this thrilling ride, you can hop off and explore all the other fun things to do at Ober Gatlinburg.
These Smoky Mountain coasters are fun for the whole family, and you can experience all of them for yourself when you visit! Be sure to also check out all the other fun and exciting area attractions for an unforgettable trip!