Call 1-800-808-3903
Posted by Jon Hoffman in Gatlinburg
Ready to climb a summit right in the middle of downtown Gatlinburg? Opened in 2014 with the goal of environmental stewardship and family-oriented fun, Anakeesta Mountain is home to some truly unique (and thrilling) adventures including:
Plus…
... all on a spectacular 70-acre summit.
Right now, Anakeesta is in the process of expanding, with a third zip line, a new overlook, and other family-friendly activities.
This past spring, Anakeesta launched Rail Runner, the only single-rail mountain coaster in America.
Unlike similar rides, Rail Runner glides along a single track, so you'll stay closer to the ground than you would on a conventional coaster. That means you'll feel the full exhilarating force of your 25mph downhill dash.
Prefer a slower pace? No problem. You get to control your own speed. What's more, your cart has a cushioned back and headrest, so you'll be comfortable all the way. In fact, Rail Runner is so safe and comfy, you can ride it in tandem with a small child. (Or go solo, if you prefer.)
Still, make no mistake, this is a thrilling trip. You'll zigzag along 1,600 feet of dramatic twists and turns, then race back up to the summit. Along the way, you'll pass through magnificent mountain scenery. It's a heart-pounding treat for the senses!
Love an artfully beautified landscape? Drop by Vista Gardens, Anakeesta's botanical garden. Stroll along winding walking trails through lush vegetation and vivid, colorful flowerbeds. And be sure to check out the Vista Garden Walk, now with 5,000 new flowers, 800 new shrubs, and 400 freshly planted trees... plus an array of new interactive / immersive experiences.
All told, the additions nearly double the garden's size. You and your family can now relax in shaded seating beneath picturesque pergolas, admire whimsical structures called "twigloos," and marvel at a 20-foot-tall "Willow Man" sculpture. Plus, your kids can romp in the Treehouse Village play area, tackle the BearVenture Challenge Course, and make their own magical music with unique, interactive instruments.
Up till recently, there was just one way to get to Anakeesta: via the Chondola gondola ride, with your choice of either an open-air quad chair or an enclosed six-person cabin. But now you can opt to board a special passenger truck (called a Ridge Rambler) for a safe, guided ascent along a gorgeous forest-fringed road. Enjoy the trip to the top – it's completely free of charge!
For spring 2020, Anakeesta plans to open:
Ready to enjoy Anakeesta's current (and future) attractions... plus all the other adventures that await you in the Great Smoky Mountains? Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals to reserve your comfortable cabin close to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Other blog categories:
Featured Cabin Gatlinburg National Park Pigeon Forge Places to Eat Sevierville Shopping Smoky Mountain Attractions Smoky Mountains Things To Do Volunteer Cabin Rentals Ways to Save Money Wears Valley