Discover Anakeesta: Smoky Mountains Magic in the Heart of Downtown Gatlinburg

Posted by Jon Hoffman in Things To Do

You don't need to hike steep mountain trails to see the Smokies in all their glory. Just come to Anakeesta at 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Open only since 2017, this magical mountaintop theme park covers 70 scenic acres of pristine forested land. Amid its lush woods and gorgeous gardens, you can enjoy an amazing array of family-friendly activities, from ziplining to single-rail rollercoasting – along with so much more, thanks to a $6 million 2020 expansion that created additional adventures.

Best of all, you can savor a spectacular view of the surrounding Smoky Mountains. All without having to toil and sweat up the 600-foot mountainside.

So, How Do You Get to Anakeesta?

Pick from several no-sweat options:

• Ride the Anakeesta Chondola. Choose either an open-air 4-person chairlift with safety bar or an enclosed gondola cabin with comfortable seating for 6. Either way, you'll have stunning bird's-eye views of beautiful Smokies vistas throughout your thrilling ascent.
• Board a Ridge Rambler Adventure Truck – a big, rugged military vehicle that weighs 17 tons and holds up to 45 passengers – for a fun-filled trip to the top. Along the way, you'll get a full guided tour, complete with forest lore, natural history, and fascinating facts about colorful Smokies critters.

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

OK, you've reached the summit. Now what?

Why not start with Anakeesta's Treetop Skywalk? Billed as the longest tree-based skywalk in North America, this awesome aerial pathway connects a network of rope and wood bridges – 880 linear feet in all – suspended 50 to 60 feet high above the forest floor.

As you stroll along, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking beauty. You may even spot a black bear or white-tail deer foraging for food down below. Snap a pic or two to capture precious memories you'll cherish for a lifetime.

Next, Check Out the New Observation Tower

Completed in 2020, this natural wood tower rises 55 feet high – like a spreading tree – from the very top of the mountain.

Climb the safe, protected spiral staircase to reach the wraparound observation deck – the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg – where you'll thrill to wide, panoramic views of magnificent mountain ridges. An unforgettable experience!

Up for Even More Excitement? Try Dueling Ziplines!

Here's your chance to zip side by side with family and friends in a picturesque treetop setting. Safely strapped in your harness, you'll soar from tree to tree 50 feet above the forest floor, with multiple rappels and plenty of eye-popping views.

Still Craving Thrills? Ride the Anakeesta Rail Runner

It's America's first single-rail mountain coaster, and it takes you on an exhilarating trip along 1,600 feet of downhill track, complete with twists and turns at speeds up to 25 mph. (You control your speed, so it's suitable for all ages.)

Plus, Don't Miss All the Other Fun Family Activities Including:

• New child-friendly water play area with wading streams and cascading waterfall
• New treehouse adventure for kids
• Vista Botanical Gardens, famous for colorful flowers and unique topiary shrubbery
• Memorial Forest Walk, commemorating the 2016 Gatlinburg fire
• The Best Selfie Spot in Gatlinburg, where you can relax on comfy Adirondack chairs and snap memorable mountaintop photos
• Firefly Village, a charming cluster of upscale shops and gourmet eateries

Book Your Smoky Mountain Getaway Now

All this enchantment – and so much more – awaits you in the Tennessee Smokies. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals right away to reserve your comfortable cabin.

This content posted by Volunteer Cabin Rentals. Visit our home page, www.volunteercabinrentals.com to book your next vacation cabin today.

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