Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride

If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg and looking for something both fun and a little different, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster might just be worth considering. From what we’ve gathered, this ride offers a unique way to enjoy the stunning views of the Smoky Mountains while giving you the thrill of controlling your descent. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who prefers a more relaxed ride with scenic vistas, this experience seems to have something for all.

What really catches our eye is the ability to control your own speed on a silent track, making it customizable whether you want to go full throttle or take it slow. Plus, the night rides with a vibrant light show sound pretty magical, especially if you’re visiting after sunset. The only potential downside? The ride duration is quick—about five minutes total—so if you’re craving a longer adventure, you might find this a bit on the brief side. But for a quick hit of fun, it hits the mark.

This activity is especially suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a memorable mountain experience without the fuss. Just keep in mind the height and weight restrictions if you’re bringing children or larger friends. Overall, it seems like a solid choice for those who want a taste of mountain adventure without a hefty price tag.

Key Points

• Control your speed on a silent track, making it suitable for different comfort levels
• Enjoy scenic views of the Smoky Mountains, especially during night rides with a light show
• Affordable at $17, offering a quick but memorable experience
• Suitable for kids as young as 3, with proper supervision and height requirements
• Operates year-round, making it accessible no matter the season
• Friendly staff and smooth operation enhance the overall experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Coaster Ride

When you arrive at Moonshine Mountain Coaster, you’re greeted with a straightforward but fun setup. The ride begins with a lift uphill, taking you to the mountain’s summit, where you’ll hop into a single or double coaster car. What’s great is that each car comes with individual brake handles, meaning you get to decide how fast or slow you want to go. This feature makes the experience accessible for beginners and those who might be a little wary of high speeds.

The ascend to the top takes about three minutes, giving you a moment to soak in the surrounding mountain scenery. Once at the top, the coaster releases, and you start your descent on the quiet, smooth track. Speeds can reach up to 30 mph, which feels just enough for an adrenaline rush without being overwhelming. Since you control the brakes, you can make the ride as exhilarating or relaxed as you like.

The total ride time is roughly five minutes, with the descent lasting around two minutes. This quick turnaround means you’ll likely want to do multiple rides if you’re eager for more. The ride is suitable for children over 3 years old, who must be accompanied by a 16+ adult with a minimum height of 56 inches. Children need to be at least 38 inches tall.

Night Rides and Light Shows

One of the most talked-about features is riding after dark. As the sun sets, the coaster’s vibrant lights come to life, illuminating the mountain and turning your ride into a kind of mini light spectacle. Many reviews mention how special this feels, adding a layer of magic to the experience. If you’re visiting Gatlinburg in the evening, don’t miss out on the nighttime rides—they seem to elevate an already fun activity into something a bit more memorable.

The Experience and Atmosphere

From the reviews, it’s clear that the staff at Moonshine Mountain Coaster are friendly and attentive, making the process smooth and welcoming. One reviewer appreciated how the staff didn’t push pictures or souvenirs, focusing instead on providing a good experience. This kind of genuine customer service always adds a lot to what might otherwise be a simple ride.

The setting itself is beautiful, with the coaster winding down the mountain on a silent, smooth track that minimizes noise disturbance. This gives you the chance to enjoy the natural surroundings without the distraction of engine noise—a nice touch that makes the whole experience feel more immersive.

Price and Value

At $17 per person, the coaster offers an affordable way to add some excitement to your Gatlinburg trip. For a quick, high-quality thrill, the price feels quite reasonable. Considering the ride is just about five minutes, it’s good for a fun break between other activities or a quick highlight of your day.

If you’re someone who appreciates the freedom to go slow and enjoy the ride at your own pace, or if you want to experience the mountain in a unique way, this coaster delivers a solid experience without breaking the bank.

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Who Will Love This?

This activity is perfect if you’re after a lighthearted thrill with scenic views—families with kids over 3 will find it especially appealing, but adults looking for a fun, quick ride will enjoy it too. It’s a good option for group outings or even a solo adventure for those wanting a fun mountain activity.

If you’re a beginners or someone wary of heights, the fact that you control your speed makes it less intimidating. Plus, the night rides with colorful lights add a fun twist for those seeking a little extra magic.

Final Thoughts

The Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a well-balanced mix of fun, scenery, and control. The ability to decide your speed makes it accessible, whether you want a gentle ride or a quick adrenaline boost. The scenic backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, especially under the glow of colorful lights at night, enhances the experience in a way that’s simple but memorable.

While the ride length is fairly short, the quick turnaround makes it easy to fit into a busy day of sightseeing. The friendly staff and reasonable price point add to its appeal, making it a good choice for a broad range of visitors.

If you’re after a fun, scenic, and interactive mountain coaster experience that won’t strain your budget, this might just be the highlight you’re looking for in Gatlinburg.

FAQ

Is the Moonshine Mountain Coaster suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 3 years old can ride, but they must be at least 38 inches tall and ride with an adult who is at least 56 inches tall and 16 years or older.

How long does the ride last?
The total ride lasts about 5 minutes, including roughly 3 minutes of uphill ascent and 2 minutes of descent.

Can I control my speed during the ride?
Absolutely. Each coaster car has individual brake handles, so you can decide whether to go faster or slower, making it customizable for different comfort levels.

Is the coaster open year-round?
Yes, the mountain coaster operates throughout the year, so you can enjoy it in any season.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
In dry conditions, the maximum weight is 375 pounds; in wet conditions, it’s 330 pounds.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to reserve your spot, especially during busy times. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the ride.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, and consider weather conditions—it’s an outdoor ride, so layers are a good idea if it’s chilly or rainy.

Is there any age restriction?
Children must be at least 3 years old. Adults need to be at least 56 inches tall to drive, and children under 38 inches need to ride with an adult.

Are there night rides?
Yes, evening rides feature a vibrant light show that makes the experience even more special.

What’s the overall vibe of the experience?
Friendly staff, scenic views, and the fun of controlling your own speed make for a relaxed and enjoyable mountain adventure.

If you enjoy scenic views, a bit of control over your experience, and a quick burst of mountain fun, the Gatlinburg Moonshine Mountain Coaster is definitely worth a try. Just be prepared for a short ride—sometimes the best memories come in quick, exhilarating moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: