Gatlinburg’s Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a unique blend of fun, control, and mountain scenery. This family-friendly attraction, praised by hundreds of visitors, has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a quick thrill with a view. As the first coaster in Gatlinburg, it holds a special place in the town’s growing lineup of adventure activities.
What we love about this coaster is the ability to control your speed through a handy brake system—making it engaging for both thrill-seekers and families. Plus, the fantastic mountain vistas provide an extra layer of enjoyment, whether you’re riding during the day or at night. On the flip side, the ride length—around 5 minutes—might leave some craving more. Still, it’s a great value at just $17 per person.
This experience is best suited for families, groups of friends, and solo adventure seekers who appreciate scenic rides with a personal touch. It’s also a good choice for those wanting a safe, enjoyable coaster without the long wait or hefty price tag.
This experience made our article of The 15 Most Popular Tours & Things To Do In Gatlinburg.
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Experience
- Location and Accessibility
- What to Expect When You Arrive
- The Ride Itself
- Scenic Views and Night Rides
- The Ride Duration and Value
- Authentic Experiences from Reviews
- Considerations and Tips
- Why This Coaster is a Great Value
- Who Will Love It
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- The Best Of Gatlinburg!
- More Tour Reviews in Gatlinburg
Key Points
- Control your speed with a unique brake system, making the ride suitable for all thrill levels.
- Beautiful mountain views enhance the experience, especially at night.
- It’s an affordable, family-friendly activity—great value for the price.
- The ride lasts approximately 5 minutes, with about 3 minutes uphill and 2 minutes downhill.
- Operational hours extend from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., offering flexibility.
- Well-rated with a 4.5-star average from 141 reviews, showing broad traveler satisfaction.
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An In-Depth Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gatlinburg.
Location and Accessibility
You’ll find the Moonshine Mountain Coaster right at 306 Parkway in Gatlinburg. The location is convenient—near public transportation and central to the town’s main attractions. Being in Gatlinburg, it’s easy to combine this coaster ride with other mountain or town adventures.
What to Expect When You Arrive
Once you arrive, the scene is welcoming and lively. The staff are known for being friendly and professional, making check-in smooth and quick. The ticket price of $17 is transparent and includes admission, so there are no hidden costs. The ride is suitable for most travelers, though there are some considerations regarding age and height.
The Ride Itself
The coaster opened in December 2014 and made history as Gatlinburg’s first roller coaster. The layout is approximately 5 minutes long from start to finish. The journey begins with an uphill climb—about 3 minutes of gentle ascent—that rewards you with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. As you reach the peak, the anticipation builds.
Then, you descend along a tubular track, riding down for roughly 2 minutes. The track is designed for smoothness and comfort, thanks to tubular rails that ensure a steady ride. What makes this coaster special is that you control your speed with a hand brake, giving you the power to go faster or slow down at your discretion. Several reviews mention how this feature makes the experience enjoyable for very young children and adults alike.
Scenic Views and Night Rides
Many visitors rave about the scenic vistas. During the daytime, the rolling green mountains and lush forests create a picturesque backdrop. Night rides are equally popular—many reviewers say the illuminated mountains and town lights turn the ride into a whole new experience. One guest noted it as an “amazing experience” and recommended doing both day and night rides if possible.
The Ride Duration and Value
Although some say they wished for a longer ride, most agree that the short duration is a fair trade for the price and thrill factor. The line moves quickly, with most reviews highlighting efficient staff and fast throughput—important during busy seasons. The price of $17 is seen as quite reasonable considering the breathtaking views and the control element that makes each ride personal.
Authentic Experiences from Reviews
Visitors’ comments paint a vivid picture: one said, “Super fun experience although the ride was short—I wanted more.” Others loved the view of the mountains and the friendly staff. Many mention the safety features, especially the hand brake, and how it makes the ride accessible for kids and families. A common theme is the fun atmosphere created by staff—joking, smiling, and making the wait feel shorter.
Considerations and Tips
Some reviews indicate a bit of confusion regarding age and height requirements, especially for infants or very young children. Make sure to check height restrictions before booking. Also, the ride’s length, while enjoyable, might not satisfy those craving a longer adventure; it’s a quick but memorable highlight of your Gatlinburg trip.
Why This Coaster is a Great Value
At just $17 per ride, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers an experience packed with scenic beauty, personal control, and family-friendly fun. For travelers on a budget or those looking to add a little thrill without the long lines and high costs of larger parks, this coaster delivers excellent value.
The ticket includes admission and the ride itself, so there are no surprise expenses. The up to an hour total duration allows for multiple rides if you’re eager to get more, especially since the line tends to move quickly.
Who Will Love It
This coaster is perfect for families with kids, especially those who want a safe yet fun and scenic experience. It’s equally appealing for adults seeking a quick thrill or solo travelers wanting a memorable, scenic ride. Night rides are a bonus for those craving a different perspective on Gatlinburg’s mountain lights.
Final Thoughts
The Moonshine Mountain Coaster stands out as a unique, affordable, and scenic ride in Gatlinburg. Its main appeal lies in being the first coaster in the area and giving riders control over their speed, making it accessible and exciting at the same time.
The spectacular mountain views—especially at night—set it apart from many other thrill rides. The friendly staff and well-maintained track ensure a smooth experience, with many visitors leaving with smiles and stories to tell.
While it’s a short ride, most consider it a highlight of their Gatlinburg visit—a perfect combination for those seeking an authentic mountain adventure, a quick adrenaline rush, or a family outing that combines fun and scenery.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly thrill with the added bonus of mountain vistas, this coaster is a solid choice. Just remember to check height requirements and plan accordingly for your day’s schedule.
Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride
FAQ
Is the Moonshine Mountain Coaster suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the brake system allows kids to control their speed, making it safe and fun for families.
How long does the ride last?
The ride itself lasts about 5 minutes—roughly 3 minutes uphill and 2 minutes down. The total experience, including waiting, may be longer.
What are the operating hours?
The coaster is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, giving plenty of flexibility for daytime or evening rides.
What is the price?
The ticket costs $17 per person, which includes admission and the ride. It’s considered good value given the views and control.
Can I ride at night?
Yes, many reviews mention nighttime rides, which offer a different atmosphere with illuminated mountain views.
Are there any age or height restrictions?
Some reviews mention confusion about age limits; it’s advisable to verify height requirements before booking.
What should I know about the line and wait times?
The line moves quickly, and the staff are efficient. During peak times, expect some wait, but most find it worth it.
To sum it up, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster in Gatlinburg offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, personal control, and family-friendly fun—all at a very reasonable price. Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a memorable mountain view, this coaster hits the mark without overdoing it. It’s perfect for those looking to add a little adventure to a day in the Smokies, especially if you appreciate the simple pleasure of riding a coaster with mountain scenery all around.
