Voted as one of the top 10 amusement parks in the world by TripAdvisor, Dollywood is one of the most popular destinations in Pigeon Forge. One of the things that makes the park so popular is the extensive amount of thrilling rides that they offer. Instead of having to ride them all to find out which ones are the best, we have done the research for you. Here are 4 of the best roller coasters at Dollywood:
1. Lightning Rod
This roller coaster is themed to resemble what old hot rod cars looked like in the 1950s. Not only does the coaster look like these antique rides, it can go from 0 to 60 even faster than the old hot rods. Lightning Rod takes guests on a fast journey, reaching speeds up to 73 miles per hour! When the ride begins, you are lifted more than 20 stories high while traveling over 40 miles per hour. But the thrill ride really begins when you reach that first peak. The first drop will take your breath away as you plummet 165 feet with serious speed. Each coaster train consists of 12 dual-seat cars, for a total of 24 people on each ride. The most unique thing about this particular roller coaster is that it features segments that are both wooden and steel. The feelings of the two different types of tracks makes Lightning Rod a must ride at Dollywood.
2. Mystery Mine
Enjoy the thrill ride as the Mystery Mine takes you on a speedy journey through an abandoned coal mine. The steel coaster features just over 1,800 feet of track with many hidden surprises. The highlights of this ride are the severe drops. The biggest of the plunges will be an 85-foot drop that sends you into the darkness of the mine. Oh, did we mention that’s just two seconds into the ride? Throughout the remaining attraction, you will be taken through the twists and turns of the mine and will even be flipped upside down a couple of times! Take a ride on the Mystery Mine to find out if there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
3. Wild Eagle
The Wild Eagle is America’s first wing coaster! This means that instead of having your feet on the bottom of a coaster train, they are dangling down below you as you experience what it is like to soar like an eagle. The ride is situated 21 stories high above Dollywood which gives you a great view of the park and the Smoky Mountains. The combination of the high speed and the views of the Smokies makes the Wild Eagle one of the best roller coasters at Dollywood!
4. Thunderhead
If you are more partial to wooden coasters, Thunderhead might be one of the best roller coasters at Dollywood for you. Situated between two mountains, this is one of the fastest wooden coasters in all of North America. Traveling at speeds up to 55 miles per hour, Thunderhead will take you on a journey you will not soon forget!
Now that you know about the best roller coasters at Dollywood, be sure to check out all the Pigeon Forge attractions to visit while you stay with us! We hope you enjoy your vacation in the Smoky Mountains!
