If you’re heading to Gatlinburg and looking for a fun, family-friendly adventure that offers both excitement and scenery, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster might just be your top pick. This ride is promoted as a way to control your descent on a silent track, giving you a mix of adrenaline and serenity amid the beautiful Smoky Mountains. We haven’t been on it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems like an experience that’s worth considering—especially if you enjoy a bit of control over your thrill level.
What makes this coaster stand out? For starters, the personalized control over your ride is a big hit. Whether you want to go slow and take in the views or push the throttle for a rush, the individual brake handles give you that freedom. Plus, the night rides with their vibrant light shows are regularly praised for transforming the mountains into something truly magical. On the downside, it’s a short ride—around 5 minutes in total—and some travelers might wish it lasted longer. Still, if you’re in Gatlinburg with family or friends seeking a quick but memorable thrill, this coaster offers value that’s hard to beat.
This activity suits those who love adventures with scenery and appreciate a flexible, adjustable experience. Families with kids as young as 3, groups of friends, or even solo thrill-seekers will find something to enjoy here. If you’re after a unique way to see the Smoky Mountains and want an activity that’s easy to fit into your schedule, this coaster might be perfect.
Key Points
- Personal control: You manage your own speed with individual brake handles, making each ride customizable.
- Stunning views: The coaster offers breathtaking scenery of the Smoky Mountains, especially during night rides with colorful light shows.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for children as young as 3, with specific height requirements for both kids and adults.
- Affordable: At $17 per person for a 5-minute experience, it offers good value compared to many other attractions.
- Short but sweet: The ride lasts around 5 minutes, including a 3-minute ascent and 2-minute descent, perfect for a quick thrill.
- Year-round operation: No matter the season, you can enjoy the coaster, with special night rides adding extra appeal.
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Contents
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster
- The Experience Begins with the Ascent
- The Coaster Cars and Your Control Panel
- The Descent: Thrills and Views
- Night Rides and Light Shows
- The Scenic Value of the Smoky Mountains
- Practical Considerations
- What Other Travelers Say
- Who Will Love the Moonshine Mountain Coaster?
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in Gatlinburg
- More Tour Reviews in Gatlinburg
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Gatlinburg we have recnetly reviewed
An In-Depth Look at the Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Gatlinburg.
The Experience Begins with the Ascent
Once you purchase your ticket, the first thing you’ll notice is the uphill lift that takes you to the mountaintop. This part of the journey is calming and offers a sneak peek of what’s to come. The ride duration is about 5 minutes total, with roughly 3 minutes spent climbing to the summit. During this ascent, you can enjoy the fresh mountain air and the panoramic views that hint at the adventure awaiting you.
The Coaster Cars and Your Control Panel
As you reach the top, you’ll board a single or double rider coaster car. What sets this ride apart is the individual brake handles—each rider can regulate their own speed, allowing for a more relaxed glide or a spirited descent. This feature makes the coaster accessible to a wide age range, including children as young as 3, provided they meet height requirements. The adult driver must be at least 56 inches tall, and children must be at least 38 inches tall and accompanied by someone taller than 56 inches and at least 16 years old.
The Descent: Thrills and Views
The descent lasts around 2 minutes and is designed to be smooth and quiet, so you feel a gentle rush rather than a jolting thrill. Speeds can reach up to 30 miles per hour, enough to get your adrenaline flowing without feeling unsafe. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, simply ease off the brake handle and enjoy the scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyNight Rides and Light Shows
One of the Coaster’s biggest draws is the night ride experience. When the sun sets, the mountain is illuminated with an impressive light show that dances across the landscape. Several reviews mention how mesmerizing and atmospheric this adds to the ride, transforming a simple coaster into a memorable spectacle. Night rides are particularly popular and are a highlight for many visitors.
The Scenic Value of the Smoky Mountains
Throughout the ride, you’ll see views that highlight the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. It’s a unique way to observe the landscape, especially since the coaster runs quietly and doesn’t disturb the peace of the environment. We loved the way this activity combines controlled excitement with the chance to appreciate scenic vistas—something that sets it apart from more traditional thrill rides.
Practical Considerations
- Pricing: At $17, the ride offers good value for such a quick experience, especially when compared to larger amusement parks.
- Accessibility: The ride is suitable for most families, but check height and weight restrictions to ensure everyone can participate.
- Weather: The coaster operates year-round but note that wet conditions limit the maximum weight to 330 pounds for safety.
- Duration: Since the ride is only about 5 minutes, it’s easy to combine with other Gatlinburg activities.
What Other Travelers Say
Many reviews mention the friendly staff and the easy process of riding. One traveler from the UK praised the staff for their friendliness and willingness to help take pictures, adding a personal touch that enhances the experience. Another noted that it’s perfect for beginners or those wary of heights, emphasizing the ride’s accessibility.
Who Will Love the Moonshine Mountain Coaster?
If you’re after a fun activity that balances thrill and scenery, this coaster hits the mark. It’s ideal for families with kids, given the low height requirements and gentle ride. Group outings will appreciate the shared control over speed, making it a more personalized adventure. For adventure seekers wanting a quick pulse-raiser or those interested in seeing Gatlinburg from a new perspective, this activity offers a satisfying combination of excitement and natural beauty.
Final Thoughts
The Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a smart choice for travelers seeking a short, engaging ride with the added bonus of stunning mountain views. Its control-your-own-speed feature makes it friendly for a range of comfort levels, from the cautious to the adrenaline junkie. Plus, the night rides with vibrant lighting create a magical atmosphere that elevates the experience.
While the ride itself is brief, the quality of the scenery and the control make it feel like a worthwhile part of any Gatlinburg itinerary. It’s a cost-effective activity that packs in fun without excessive waiting or complicated logistics. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a lively yet relaxed adventure, this coaster offers good entertainment and memorable views.
In the grand scheme of Gatlinburg attractions, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster provides a refreshing change of pace. It’s not just about the thrill but about experiencing the mountain in a new, interactive way—something you’ll likely find yourself talking about long after the ride ends.
Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride
FAQ
How long does the coaster ride last?
The full experience takes about 5 minutes, including a 3-minute ascent and a 2-minute descent.
What are the height requirements?
Adults must be at least 56 inches tall, while children need to be at least 38 inches tall and 3 years old or older. Companion riders for children must be taller than 56 inches and at least 16 years old.
Can I control my speed?
Yes, each rider has an individual brake handle that allows you to adjust your speed during the descent.
Is the ride suitable for young children?
Yes, children as young as 3 can ride if they meet the height requirement and are accompanied by a suitable adult.
What is the price for the ride?
It costs $17 per person, offering good value for an activity that combines scenery and fun.
Does it operate year-round?
Yes, the coaster runs throughout the year, with night rides adding to the experience during the evening.
Are there any weather restrictions?
Yes, in wet conditions, the maximum weight is reduced to 330 pounds for safety.
Is the activity accessible for groups?
Absolutely, the ride is well-suited for groups and families, especially since everyone can control their own speed.
The Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster provides an engaging, scenic adventure that’s perfect for those wanting a quick dose of mountain fun with a personal touch. It’s a solid choice for families, casual thrill-seekers, and anyone eager to see the Smokies from a new perspective—all at a reasonable price.
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