General Admission to SkyLand Ranch with Scenic Chairlift Ride

When visiting the Smoky Mountains, it’s easy to get caught up in the natural beauty of the area, but SkyLand Ranch offers a refreshing mix of scenic views, family-friendly activities, and entertainment that make it worth a visit. Priced at just under $29 per person, with three consecutive days of access, this attraction combines breathtaking mountain vistas with engaging activities that suit a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re traveling with kids, looking for a relaxing day out, or eager to enjoy some live entertainment, SkyLand Ranch has a lot to offer.

Two features stand out to us: the Horizon Skyride, which offers unbeatable panoramic views of the Smokies and surrounding towns, and the animal encounters that bring a touch of farm life to the mountains. The new WagonWheeler Swing Tower rides—included with your ticket—add an extra dash of adventure, especially for thrill-seekers. The only potential drawback? Some activities like feeding animals or pony rides are not included in the base ticket and require additional purchases, which might catch some off guard.

This experience is best suited for families and groups who want a comfortable, scenic, and activity-rich day—especially if they value picturesque views, live shows, and farm fun. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace but also want some exciting options thrown in.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The Horizon Skyride provides sweeping vistas of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville.
• Multi-Day Access: Your ticket grants 3 consecutive days, maximizing flexibility.
• Family-Friendly: Animal encounters, live entertainment, and rides make it a great option for kids.
• Additional Activities: Extras like the Safari Hayride and Mountain Coaster can be added for more thrill.
• Inclusive Rides: The WagonWheeler Swing Tower rides are included with your ticket, but riders must be at least 48″ tall.
• Price and Value: At $28.99, it offers a reasonably priced day of entertainment and scenic beauty, especially considering the three-day access.

Exploring SkyLand Ranch in Detail

The Scenic Chairlift Experience

The core of this attraction is the Horizon Skyride, which takes you to the top of SkyLand Ranch. We loved the way the ride offers a gorgeous bird’s-eye view of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. It’s a relaxing way to start your adventure, especially in good weather when the landscape is alive with greenery or autumn colors.

The Skyride is accessible via shuttle or by mountain-style cable cars, which provide a comfortable and scenic ascent. This is a great way to get your bearings and set the mood for the rest of your visit.

What to Expect at the Ranch

Once at the top, you’ll find a charming mix of shopping, food, live entertainment, and animal encounters. The reviews highlight that the animal encounters are quite popular, with visitors enjoying the chance to see and pet farm animals—although feeding and petting animals do not come with general admission, a fact that caught some by surprise.

Live entertainment is a daily feature, including cowboy acts and other performances, adding a lively Western atmosphere. We appreciate that this adds an authentic touch to the experience, making it more than just a scenic ride.

The New WagonWheeler Swing Tower Rides

A recent addition, the WagonWheeler Swing Tower rides, are now part of the included activities, offering two rides per day. They require riders to be at least 48 inches tall, so younger children or those wary of heights might need to skip this part. But for thrill lovers, it’s a fun, elevated experience that adds a bit of adventure to your visit.

Animal Encounters and Additional Activities

The ranch boasts miniature animal encounters, which many visitors find delightful. The reviews mention that the animals are quite accessible and well-cared-for, offering a chance for kids to get closer to farm life. However, some activities like feeding animals or pony rides are extra, with additional costs (e.g., safari ride for $14.99).

For thrill-seekers, the Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster and Safari Hayride are available for extra fees—$12 and $14.99 respectively—providing options to extend your adventure beyond the included activities.

Practical Details: Hours, Parking, and Booking

SkyLand Ranch is open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, making it easy to fit into a full day or combine with other Smoky Mountain adventures. Free parking is a great perk, simplifying logistics, especially during busy seasons.

Your ticket is valid for three consecutive days, so you can enjoy the activities at a relaxed pace or revisit for different experiences. The booking process is straightforward, with confirmation received immediately and the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Based on reviews, visitors generally find SkyLand Ranch to be a fun, family-friendly spot. Betsy R wrote, “Skyland Ranch has something for the whole family. Enjoyed it! The lights are beautiful and the animals are quite accessible. All around a great time,” emphasizing the accessibility and beauty of the setting. Monica P also praised the nice staff, great views, and variety of activities.

A less favorable review from Diana K pointed out that feeding and petting animals require extra purchases, reminding us that it’s worth checking what’s included before arriving to avoid surprises.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This attraction is perfect for families with children, thanks to the animal encounters and live entertainment. It’s also well-suited for couples or groups who want a scenic, relaxed day with some added adventure, thanks to the rides and panoramic views. If you love stunning mountain scenery and playful farm animals, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, if your priority is visiting only the core scenic ride or if you’re seeking more extreme adventures, you might consider combining this with other nearby activities like ziplining or mountain coasters.

Final Thoughts: Is SkyLand Ranch Worth It?

In our view, SkyLand Ranch offers a solid value for travelers seeking a multi-faceted, scenic experience that’s both relaxing and lively. The breathtaking views from the Skyride alone justify the ticket price, but the added activities—animal encounters, live shows, and the new swing rides—make it a well-rounded trip.

The three-day pass is a real plus, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable for families who want a day filled with variety without breaking the bank. The presence of free parking and the convenient hours make it accessible for most visitors.

Just keep in mind that some things, like feeding animals or pony rides, cost extra, so plan accordingly. And if you’re after stunning mountain vistas combined with fun farm moments, this place hits the mark.

FAQ

Is the ticket valid for multiple days?
Yes, your ticket grants 3 consecutive days of entry, allowing you to visit at your own pace across multiple days.

What activities are included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers scenic chairlift rides, miniature animal encounters, live entertainment, and 2 rides on the WagonWheeler Swing Tower each day.

Are there any height restrictions for the rides?
Yes, the WagonWheeler Swing Tower rides require riders to be at least 48 inches tall.

Can I add extra rides or attractions?
Absolutely. Activities like the Safari Hayride ($14.99) and Mountain Coaster ($12) can be purchased at the admissions window.

Is parking free?
Yes, free parking is included with your visit, which is a big convenience.

What are the hours of operation?
SkyLand Ranch is open Monday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed at the ranch.

What’s the best way to book tickets?
You can book online with instant confirmation. Remember, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled visit.

SkyLand Ranch offers a great mix of scenic beauty, fun activities, and authentic farm experiences. It’s perfect for families and those wanting a relaxed yet engaging day in the Smokies. With its impressive views and friendly environment, it’s a solid choice for a memorable outing in Sevierville.