If you’re heading to Gatlinburg and craving a blend of adventure and spectacular scenery, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a unique way to enjoy the Smoky Mountains. This roller coaster isn’t your typical thrill ride; instead, it gives you the power to control your descent on a silent track, making it a versatile experience for both thrill-seekers and families alike.
What makes this coaster particularly appealing is its location—right in the heart of the Smokies—and its year-round operation. Plus, the option to enjoy a mesmerizing night ride illuminated by a vibrant light show sets it apart from many other mountain attractions.
That said, it’s worth noting that the ride lasts only about five minutes, which might leave some wanting more. Still, for its price point and the opportunity for a personalized experience, it’s a solid choice for many travelers.
If you’re considering adding this adventure to your Gatlinburg itinerary, you’ll find it suits those looking for a light thrill, families with young children, or anyone eager to see the mountains from a different perspective. Just keep in mind the weight restrictions and height requirements to ensure everyone in your group can participate.
Key Points
- Customizable Speed: You control your descent, allowing for both adrenaline rushes and leisurely cruises.
- Spectacular Views: The coaster offers scenic glimpses of the Smoky Mountains, especially during the day or at night with the light show.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for children as young as 3, with safety guidelines carefully outlined.
- Affordable Fun: At $17 per person, it provides a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
- Short but Sweet: The ride lasts around 5 minutes, including a 3-minute uphill climb and 2-minute descent.
- Inclusive Experience: Operates year-round, ensuring fun regardless of weather or season.
The experience begins with an uphill lift that takes you to the summit of Moonshine Mountain. This ascent, which usually takes about three minutes, is a calming build-up before the excitement. Once at the top, you’ll board a single or double rider coaster car. Each coaster is equipped with individual brake handles, allowing you to decide whether to glide slowly or race down at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
The real charm lies in your control—this isn’t a preset ride. Whether you’re a cautious rider or craving the thrill of maximum speed, you set your pace. The coaster cars run on a silent track, minimizing noise while still providing a smooth, secure ride. This feature enhances the sense of intimacy with the mountain surroundings, making it feel like you’re on a personal adventure rather than a mass-produced attraction.
If you visit during daylight, you’ll enjoy broad vistas of the Smokies, with lush green forests stretching out in every direction. As dusk falls, the coaster transforms into a mesmerizing night ride. Here, the mountain becomes a canvas for a dynamic light show, illuminating the landscape with vibrant colors that dance around you, creating an almost magical atmosphere. Many reviewers mention how striking the night rides are, with one praising the “vibrant light show” that adds a layer of enchantment.
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Accessibility and Safety
The coaster’s height and weight restrictions are put in place to ensure safety. Adults must be at least 56 inches tall and not exceed 375 pounds in dry conditions. For children, the minimum height is 38 inches (roughly 3 years old), and they must ride with a guardian who is at least 16 years old and 56 inches tall. These restrictions mean the experience is accessible to a wide age range, making it an appealing option for families.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gatlinburg.
Experience Quality and Staff
In the reviews, travelers often commend the friendly staff, noting how they go out of their way to ensure a positive experience. One reviewer from the UK appreciated the staff’s friendliness and the fact that they didn’t push for souvenirs or photos, which can sometimes feel overly commercialized. The cooperative attitude of the staff adds to the overall relaxing vibe of the experience.
Duration and Price
The ride itself lasts just about 5 minutes, including the ascent and descent. While this might seem brief, the personal control and scenic views pack a lot into a short period, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a quick, fun activity. At $17 per person, it’s competitively priced, especially considering the novelty factor.
Considerations for Visitors
The main consideration is the ride duration—if you’re looking for a long, adrenaline-pumping experience, this coaster might leave you wanting more. However, it’s perfect for a lighthearted break during your Gatlinburg adventures. Also, keep in mind the weight and height limits to avoid disappointment on-site.
Some travelers have noted that the ride is not very high, which makes it friendly for those wary of heights. One reviewer said, “It was great for a beginner rider and someone who may fear heights because it was not that high to start off with.” That makes it an excellent choice for families with younger children or first-time coaster riders.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Experience?
This coaster is ideal for families with kids, as young as three, thanks to its gentle start and adjustable speed. It’s also perfect for groups of friends wanting a fun, quick thrill, or travelers looking for a unique way to see the mountains without an intense roller coaster experience. If you prefer a scenic ride that you can control, this activity fits the bill.
Those seeking more adrenaline might find the ride too tame, but if you love stunning views combined with a personal touch, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a memorable outing.
The Sum Up
The Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster stands out as a fun, affordable, and flexible way to experience the Smoky Mountains from a fresh perspective. Its personal control over speed makes it accessible for a wide variety of riders—from cautious beginners to thrill-seekers. The spectacular scenery, especially during the night ride with vibrant lighting, transforms this simple coaster into a magical mountain adventure.
The friendly staff and short ride duration make it a convenient addition to your Gatlinburg itinerary, especially if you’re in search of a quick, engaging activity that won’t break the bank. Its family-friendly design and emphasis on safety ensure everyone can enjoy, making it a fantastic choice for travelers with children or anyone new to mountain coaster rides.
In short, if you want a scenic, controllable thrill that offers a dash of excitement and a lot of scenic beauty, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is well worth considering. Just remember to check the restrictions beforehand and prepare for a ride that’s as much about enjoying the views as it is about the thrill of the descent.
Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride
FAQs
How long does the ride last?
The coaster ride itself lasts about 5 minutes, including a 3-minute ascent and a 2-minute descent.
What is the maximum speed?
You can control your coaster to reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour depending on how much you brake or accelerate.
Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 3 years old can ride, provided they are at least 38 inches tall and ride with a guardian who meets the age and height requirements.
Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum weight is 375 pounds in dry conditions and 330 pounds in wet conditions to ensure safety.
Is the ride suitable for people with height fears?
Many reviews mention that it’s not very high, making it suitable for those who are cautious about heights.
Is this activity available year-round?
Yes, the coaster operates all year, regardless of the season or weather.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly before or after your ride.
The Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a blend of controlled excitement and stunning mountain views, making it a fun and memorable part of any Smoky Mountains trip. Whether riding alone, with family, or friends, it’s a lively way to experience Gatlinburg’s scenic beauty from a fresh angle.
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