3 Top Times to Ride this Mountain Coaster in Gatlinburg
Thrill seekers rejoice! On top of hiking, rafting, ziplining, and award-winning rollercoasters, the Smoky Mountain area is home to even more ways to get your adrenaline pumping. Mountain coasters are soaring in popularity, and Moonshine Mountain Coaster in Gatlinburg is a MUST during your next vacation. It’s a new way for the whole family to experience the great outdoors!
As you plan your next trip to the Smoky Mountains, we’re sharing our three favorite times to ride with Moonshine Mountain Coaster. Plus, we’re sharing our top tips for the best experience. Hang on; it’s going to be a wild ride!
Fall in the Smoky Mountains
In full transparency, there’s no bad time to visit this mountain coaster in the Smoky Mountains. However, we think fall is the absolute best time to visit. First, the fall foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is some of the best in America. Millions of visitors travel to East Tennessee in October just to see the fall colors.
Imagine barreling down a mountainside amidst the vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds of the fall foliage. The ride is beautiful no matter the time of year, but fall is spectacular. If the family is traveling for fall break in the Smoky Mountains, Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a fun activity to surprise them with. It’s an experience that the entire family can enjoy together.
Guests visiting during late October can enjoy a scary good time at Moonshine Mountain Coaster’s Halloween in the Holler. Regular rides are still available during the day. After dusk, ride if you dare! The Thrills and Shrills ride is a haunted ride down the mountain in the dark. In addition to the spooky darkness, riders can expect intense special effects, animatronics, and live actors. This event may not be suitable for young children, but it is a safe and fun way to enjoy the Halloween season. See photos and videos from the first annual Halloween in the Holler here.
A Hot Summer Day in Gatlinburg
Summer in the South is hot and humid! Beat the heat with the shade and speed of Moonshine Mountain Coaster. This attraction was designed for most ages and abilities, so bring the whole family for a Smoky Mountain adrenaline rush. Take in the lush views and cool mountain air while coasting down the mountain at speeds up to 30mph.
Of course, you don’t have to go that fast. Riders can slow the speed of their coaster car with individual brake handles. The coaster is gravity-driven and the handles control the speed, which gives each rider a personalized experience. In the hot summer heat, you may be willing to go faster in search of a cool wind.
Nighttime in the Smokies
When the sun goes down, the light show begins! Visit Moonshine Mountain Coaster at night for this de-light-ful experience!
During the daytime, riders can take in the scenery. However, the nighttime darkness creates a different vibe! Thrill-seekers will love the dramatic element of soaring down the coaster at night. If that sounds too intense, you’ll be glad to know that each car has a headlight and the track is lit. Multi-colored lights shine from the hills making a nighttime ride an unforgettable experience.
Ask about a re-ride discount because you’ll want to ride again.
Tips for the Best Mountain Coaster Experience
- View height and weight guidelines here to ensure everyone in your party can ride. If someone in your party is unable to ride, he or she can visit the gift shop and cheer on other riders.
- Rainy vacation days are a bummer, but they can be a blast at Moonshine Mountain Coaster! Ride with a shield for rain protection. It’s a fun way to make the most out of a rainy day.
- Purchase tickets online. Those who purchase tickets in advance won’t need to wait in line to buy them in person. Check the hours of operation before buying tickets.
- Stay updated on the latest events and offers from Moonshine Mountain Coaster by following the attraction on social media (links below). Plus, sign up for the newsletter to receive updates and special offers. The team is always planning a special offer or themed experience, so don’t miss out on the action. Newsletter signup is available on the attraction’s website.
Your Visit to Moonshine Mountain Coaster
This mountain coaster in Gatlinburg is open year-round, so make plans to ride no matter what season you travel. There is no wrong time to visit the Smoky Mountains and Moonshine Mountain Coaster!
Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers plenty of free parking for customers. Find it directly on the main Parkway as you enter Gatlinburg near Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin and many of the other top restaurants and libations on the main Parkway. This top attraction in the Smoky Mountains is convenient for those staying in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville.
Follow Your Guide to the Smokies for more Smoky Mountain vacation tips!
Authored in Appalachia || Amy Morton
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