Rocky Top Mountain Coaster Admission Ticket in Pigeon Forge

If you’re heading to Pigeon Forge and looking for a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity that offers more than just a typical amusement ride, the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster might be worth considering. This coaster isn’t your average roller coaster—here, you get to control your speed, enjoy stunning mountain scenery, and experience the thrill of navigating twists, turns, and drops amid Tennessee’s lush landscape.

What we love about this experience is how it combines the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains with the excitement of a mountain coaster you can steer yourself. Plus, the option to ride at night, with the coaster lit up against the darkened mountains, offers a uniquely different perspective. The second highlight is the relatively affordable price—$18 per person—making it a good value for what you get in terms of fun and scenery.

One thing to keep in mind is that some reviews mention frequent stops and jerks that might reduce the feeling of continuous coasting. If you’re expecting a nonstop ride, you might find this aspect a bit less thrilling. This attraction suits families, groups of friends, or anyone craving a scenic thrill that’s accessible and enjoyable for most ages.

Key Points

• Control your cart with hand brakes for a personalized experience
• Ride through over 20 acres of forested mountain scenery
• Features four drops and numerous twists and turns
• Offers both daytime and nighttime rides for varied views
• Suitable for most travelers, with some weight and health restrictions
• Excellent value at $18 per person—especially considering the scenic backdrop and fun factor

A Scenic Ride in the Mountains

The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, located in Pigeon Forge, stretches over nine minutes of pure mountain fun. Sitting on more than 20 acres of the Smokies’ natural beauty, this coaster invites you to enjoy a leisurely yet exhilarating cruise through the trees, with a good dose of twists, curves, and hairpin turns.

Unlike traditional coasters that are fixed and fast, this one is controlled by you. You use hand brakes to manage your speed, giving you a sense of control and a more interactive ride. As you zip along, you’ll feel the wind in your hair, which is a simple but pure pleasure—especially after spending days exploring Tennessee’s scenic attractions.

The track includes four drops, giving you moments of rapid descent, and plenty of curves to keep things interesting. The ride is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, though there is a weight limit of 375 pounds per sled. For families with younger kids, it’s worth noting that kids must be able to ride and control the cart, making it a family-friendly adventure.

The Ride Experience: What to Expect

From the moment you purchase your ticket for $18, you’re in for a treat. The experience begins with a short wait, which tends to move quickly. Once on the coaster, you’ll be seated in a sled that runs along a track winding through the mountains. The thrill comes from navigating the twists and turns, feeling the mountain scenery unfold around you.

One of the standout features is the possibility of riding at night, when the coaster is illuminated against the dark mountains. Several reviews highlight this as a highlight, offering a different perspective on the landscape. Imagine zipping down the mountain, surrounded by a starry sky and the glow of the coaster’s lights—a memorable highlight for some.

The track’s design, with four ups and downs, ensures varied pacing. However, some riders have noted that the frequent stops and jerks can disrupt the flow of the ride, making it feel less like a continuous thrill and more like a series of quick pauses. If you’re expecting a nonstop roller coaster, this might be something to consider.

Authentic Feedback from Visitors

Reviews paint a picture of a broadly enjoyable experience with some mixed opinions. Many praise the coaster for being fun and accessible: “So much fun! All kids were able to ride and control the cart,” says Melissa. Bailey adds, “My favorite coaster in the area,” emphasizing its thrill and suitability for groups of friends or families.

On the other hand, some reviews express disappointment about the ride’s continuity: “Every 20-30 seconds you’re being jerked to a stop,” complains Danielle. It’s clear that the ride’s frequent stops are a point of contention; they can take away from the feeling of a smooth, continuous ride.

Most visitors agree that the views are a major part of what makes this coaster memorable. The lush scenery, combined with the thrill of controlling your descent, adds a unique dimension compared to traditional rides. Many also appreciate the friendly staff and the overall good value, especially given the scenic backdrop and the length of the ride.

Practical Details and Booking

The ticket costs $18 per person, which is fairly reasonable considering the scenic and entertainment value. The attraction is generally booked about 15 days in advance, so planning ahead ensures you can secure a ride without last-minute stress.

The experience lasts roughly 10 to 30 minutes, depending on wait times and how many times you choose to ride. It’s best suited for most travelers, provided they meet the weight restrictions and are not under the influence of alcohol, as safety is a priority.

The free cancellation policy is a plus, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours before your scheduled ride for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Love the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster?

This attraction appeals most to those who enjoy scenic rides with a personal touch. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want an activity that combines outdoor beauty with a bit of adrenaline, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s a good choice for first-time coaster riders who want control over their experience, as well as for thrill-seekers looking for a different perspective on the Smoky Mountains.

It’s also perfect if you’re curious about nighttime experiences—riding when the mountains are lit up and the stars are out adds a special touch that daytime rides simply can’t match.

However, if you’re expecting a smooth, nonstop roller coaster ride, you might find the frequent stops and jerks a bit frustrating. It’s worth considering whether the scenic aspect outweighs the ride’s occasional interruptions.

Final Thoughts: Is the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster Worth It?

For a fair price, you get a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains while controlling your ride through twists and turns. The scenic views and the option to ride at night make this a memorable activity, especially for those who appreciate a mix of nature and adrenaline.

This coaster offers a relaxing yet exciting way to see the mountains from a different angle. It’s most suitable for families, small groups, or anyone interested in a light adrenaline rush amid beautiful surroundings. The friendly staff, good value, and scenic backdrop make it a worthwhile addition to your Pigeon Forge itinerary—just keep your expectations in check regarding the ride’s flow and stops.

If you’re looking for an easy, fun, and scenic adventure with a bit of control over your speed, the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster provides a genuine mountain adventure that’s both accessible and memorable.

FAQ

How long does the ride last?
The ride itself lasts about 9 minutes, but with wait times and potential multiple rides, the total experience can range from 10 to 30 minutes.

Can I ride at night?
Yes, you can choose to ride at night when the coaster is lit up, offering a different perspective and a fun, illuminated experience.

Is this suitable for kids?
Most travelers can participate, but kids must be able to ride and control the cart. There is a weight limit of 375 pounds per sled.

How much does a ticket cost?
Tickets are $18.00 per person, making it a relatively affordable activity for the scenic thrill it provides.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled ride, for a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 15 days ahead, especially during busy seasons, to secure their spot.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Since you control your speed, avoid loose items that could fall off.

Are there any restrictions?
Intoxicated patrons are not allowed, and the ride is not suitable for anyone over 375 lbs. Be sure to follow safety instructions provided by staff.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone simply looking to enjoy the mountains from a different angle, the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster delivers a fun, scenic adventure. Think of it as a mountain-themed joy ride that offers both control and spectacular views—an activity that’s likely to be a highlight of your Pigeon Forge trip.