Dollywood is far and away the top attraction in Pigeon Forge, and it’s definitely one of the top amusement parks in the nation, if not the best. Extremely family-friendly and with rides catering to all ages, the park is known for its dedication to excellence. With several innovations and national firsts for the theme park industry under its belt, Dollywood has an inventory of rides and special attractions that continues to grow. Here are some notable rides.
Thrill Rides
Lightning Rod (Jukebox Junction)
This hybrid wooden coaster is the fastest of its kind in the world, reaching speeds of up to 73 miles per hour. It features a thrilling launch and a series of airtime hills, sharp turns, and a breathtaking drop.
Big Bear Mountain (Wildwood Grove)
As the longest coaster at Dollywood, this family-friendly ride spans nearly 4,000 feet with three launches and multiple airtime hills. It offers an immersive experience as riders search for the legendary Big Bear.
Wild Eagle (Wilderness Pass)
This is America’s first wing coaster, providing the sensation of flying with seats on either side of the track. Instead of sitting within the roller coaster riding right over the top of the track, you sit stretched out on eagle’s wings to the side – there’s nothing but air below! It boasts a 210-foot height and a 135-foot drop, along with several inversions.
images courtesy of Dollywood
Mystery Mine (Timber Canyon)
A steel coaster that combines indoor and outdoor elements, it features a vertical lift and an 85-foot drop. Themed around an abandoned mine, it includes multiple inversions and special effects for added thrills.
Tennessee Tornado (Craftsman’s Valley)
This classic coaster features three inversions and speeds of up to 63 miles per hour. It simulates the chaotic experience of being caught in a tornado..
Thunderhead (Timber Canyon)
At the time when it was first built in 2004, this ride offered the first station fly-through, and Amusement Today chose it the best wooden coaster in 2005 and 2006. The ride offers 14 bridges, 32 crossovers, and 22 turns, with a 100-foot drop and a top speed of 55 mph.
Family-Friendly Rides
Dollywood Express (The Village)
This scenic steam train ride offers a relaxing journey through the Smoky Mountains, making it a great option for visitors of all ages. The ride lasts about 20 minutes and provides stunning views.
FireChaser Express (Wilderness Pass)
In 2014 this was the first dual-launch rollercoaster in the country, whihc means it takes you forward and backward. It runs through fire-themed scenes with pyrotechnic displays at moderate speeds, making it suitable for younger riders.
Dragonflier (Wildwood Grove)
A suspended family coaster that mimics the flight of a dragonfly, it provides gentle thrills with a lower height requirement, making it perfect for younger children.
Smoky Mountain River Rampage (Rivertown Junction)
A water ride that promises fun splashes on hot days, this adventure takes guests through rapids and waterfalls.
Blazing Fury (Craftsman’s Valley)
An indoor coaster that combines dark ride elements with roller coaster thrills, featuring fire-fighting themes throughout its journey.
If you have any questions about the rides, their safety, or availability, you can check the Dollywood web site or call 865-428-9488. And check out Dollywood’s full catalog of rides.
Dollywood Vacation Packages
We have lots of cabins just minutes from Dollywood. Combine your cabin with our Dollywood vacation package to get tickets and skip the long lines. Call 866 34 SMOKY to arrange the package.
