Imagine zooming down a mountain, feeling the wind in your hair, and deciding just how fast you want to go—all against the backdrop of the breathtaking Smoky Mountains. For just $17 per person, you can take this 5-minute roller-coaster ride at Moonshine Mountain Coaster in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Whether you’re craving a quick thrill or a relaxed cruise, this ride offers a surprisingly versatile adventure suitable for almost everyone.
What makes this experience stand out? First, you control your speed on a silent track, which means you can go as fast as you dare or slow down and soak in the scenery. Second, the night rides with their vibrant light shows elevate the experience into something truly magical. But, as with any outdoor activity, timing and weather can influence the fun—so plan accordingly.
If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll appreciate that children as young as 3 can ride, provided they meet height requirements and are chaperoned by an adult. The ride’s gentle yet exhilarating nature makes it an excellent choice for families, groups, or anyone eager for a quick hit of adventure. If you’re someone who loves to take in views with a dash of adrenaline, this is a ride to consider.
Key Points
- Affordable thrill: At just $17, it offers excellent value for a short but memorable mountain adventure.
- Complete control: Individual brake handles let you decide your pace, making it accessible for both beginners and thrill-seekers.
- Scenic night rides: The vibrant light show during evening rides adds a layer of visual delight.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for children 3 and older, with safety requirements in place.
- Year-round operation: No matter the season, this coaster provides a unique way to see the mountains.
- Authentic experience: The friendly staff and personalized control create a more genuine, less commercialized feel.
An In-Depth Look at the Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster
Planning more time in Gatlinburg? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Location and Setting
Situated in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers more than just a ride—it’s an experience where you get to see the Smoky Mountains from a new perspective. The coaster’s route runs down the mountain, providing stunning views that are especially captivating during the night rides, when lights dance along the coaster and mountain landscape. The natural beauty of the area is woven into the adventure, making it a perfect complement to other outdoor excursions in Gatlinburg.
What the Experience Entails
Your journey begins with a lift uphill, which takes about 3 minutes. As you ascend, you get a moment to appreciate the surrounding scenery—an ideal time for some anticipation. Once at the top, you board a single or double rider coaster car. Each coaster is equipped with individual brake handles, giving you the ability to control your speed—a feature that sets this ride apart from more traditional, fixed-speed coasters. It’s a subtle but significant detail that puts you in the driver’s seat, allowing you to tailor your experience.
The descent lasts around 2 minutes, during which you can choose to go full speed at up to 30 mph or relax and enjoy the natural scenery. Several reviews highlight how easy and accessible the ride is, with one traveler noting it was “great for a beginner rider” and another appreciating how quick and straightforward it was to enjoy the thrill.
Night Rides and Light Shows
One of the most talked-about aspects is the night ride option. As the sun sets, the mountain transforms into a dazzling display of lights, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The vibrant light show, coordinated with the coaster’s movement, enhances the sense of magic and adventure. Many visitors find this a highlight, with one reviewer describing it as “a mesmerizing night ride” that elevates the entire experience.
More Great Tours NearbySafety and Accessibility
Safety regulations are clearly communicated and enforced. The maximum weight limit is 375 pounds in dry conditions and 330 pounds if the ground is wet—important details for those planning their visit. The height requirements are 56 inches for adults and 38 inches for children, with children needing to be at least 3 years old and riding with an adult who is at least 56 inches tall and 16 years or older. These measures help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable ride.
Considerations and Tips
While the ride is generally considered accessible and fun, a few things to keep in mind include weather conditions—wet or rainy days might limit the ride’s operation due to safety concerns. Also, because it is a short ride, some thrill-seekers might wish for a longer experience, but the high-quality control and scenic views compensate nicely for the brevity.
Who Will Love This?
This coaster is an excellent pick for families with young children, given the low height and age restrictions, as well as the gentle yet engaging nature of the ride. It’s also perfect for groups or couples looking for a quick adventure that can be enjoyed at their own pace. If you’re a beginner to roller-coasters or afraid of heights, you’ll find comfort in the personalized control and the soft thrill of just gliding down the mountain.
Why We Think It’s Worth Considering
The Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster merges scenic beauty with personal control, creating a ride that’s more than just a thrill—it’s an experience you shape yourself. The friendly staff and personalized ride make it feel less like a tourist trap and more like a genuine adventure. The night rides with their spectacular light displays leave many visitors with lasting memories, making it an Instagram-worthy moment you won’t want to miss.
The price point of $17 is quite reasonable for the quality and uniqueness of the experience. Given its year-round availability, it can fit into most vacation plans, whether you’re visiting in summer or winter. The short duration makes it an easy add-on to a busy Gatlinburg itinerary, perfect for quick thrill-seekers or those wanting a lighthearted break from more traditional sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after an activity that blends natural scenic views with a dash of adrenaline, the Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster promises just that. Its personalized controls make it accessible for many, while the nighttime lighting elevates the fun into something quite memorable.
This experience is particularly well-suited for families, groups of friends, or couples who enjoy outdoor adventures with a bit of flair. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable ride that delivers on fun, safety, and the chance to see the Smoky Mountains from a fresh angle—at your own pace.
FAQ
Is the ride suitable for children? Yes, children as young as 3 can ride if they meet height requirements and are accompanied by an adult. The ride is designed to be family-friendly and accessible for young kids.
How long does the ride last? The entire experience lasts about 5 minutes, including a roughly 3-minute ascent and a 2-minute descent.
Can I control my speed during the ride? Absolutely. The coaster cars are equipped with individual brake handles, allowing you to decide whether to go full speed or take it slow.
What should I wear? Wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity. Since the ride is outdoors, consider layers if you’re visiting during cooler months.
Are night rides available? Yes, the coaster operates year-round and offers spectacular night rides with vibrant light displays that enhance the mountain views.
What is the maximum weight limit? The maximum weight cannot exceed 375 pounds in dry conditions and 330 pounds if it’s wet, so check your weight before you go.
In the end, the Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a fine balance of adventure, scenery, and control. It’s a great way to add a dash of fun to your Smoky Mountain trip and get a fresh perspective on the natural beauty surrounding Gatlinburg. Whether you’re a thrill enthusiast or traveling with family, this ride is worth considering. Just remember to dress for the weather, plan for the timing of your visit, and prepare for a short but memorable mountain adventure.
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