Are you looking to conquer all the best rollercoasters in the world? Or perhaps you just want something fun to do in Pigeon Forge? Either way, you can find just what you’re looking for with a trip over to the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster. At that track, you can expect to have time of your life whether you ride alone or bring along all your friends. Still not convinced it’s worth your time? Here’s a look at the top five reasons to take a ride (or ten!).
Snag Bragging Rights for Riding the Longest Coaster
At over one mile long, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is the longest downhill rollercoaster in the nation. So, if you want to hit all the best rollercoasters in the country, you cannot miss this one.
From start to finish, you can expect to spend up to 10 minutes cruising along the mountainside. But if you’re a daredevil, you can do it in just seven short minutes.
In order to ride alone or remain in control of the sled on tandem rides, you need to be at least 16 years old and at least 56-inches tall. If you do not yet meet those metrics, you’ll have to wait to get bragging rights for riding the longest coaster or get someone who does to ride with you.
Experience the Joy of Controlling Your Journey
Unlike other rollercoasters, you remain in control of how fast your journey goes by activating the brakes or letting it go full speed ahead. The innovative braking system works equally well in all weather conditions, too, so you can go on rainy day rides or even visit while it’s snowing in the winter.
Although you might be tempted to stop and take in the view, it’s important that you don’t do that. Otherwise, other riders on the track could quickly come up behind you and even bump into your sled.
Instead, plan to go at a steady clip and simply ride again if you feel like you missed something the first time around. You can buy a multi-ride pack to save money on your additional rides while making it easy to go again and again.
Soak in All the Exhilarating Thrills and Chills
If you skip the brakes in favor of getting your thrills on, your sled will blast around the track at up to 30 miles per hour. While doing that, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for any sleds ahead of you and slow down if they’re standing in your way.
If you’re lucky, they will notice your need for speed and go full bore as well, making it a two-fer in the thrills and chills department. If not, then no big deal. Just ride again to see if you get a wide-open path to take advantage of on that trip around the mountainside.
For even more chills, zip around the track well after the sun goes down. The sights and sounds of the forest at night will change the atmosphere of the ride, making it even more thrilling in many ways.
See an Example of Fine German Engineering
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is an excellent example of fine German engineering. Its owners came from Germany in search for the ideal spot to bring their vision to life. As they searched, they tried to find an expansive spot that boasted the best views around while remaining accessible to the public.
While they easily found it in the heart of the Smokies, they did need to clear away trees, regrade the land, and resurface stones to build their creation. Beyond that, they had to design the track and sleds to provide the ultimate in fun, excitement, and safety. Their staff makes sure that the sleds and track live up to their original build specifications with a daily inspection.
At the heart of their build is their ultra-effective braking technology that slides the sleds to a halt on demand – even in the rain and snow. The sleds even have the ability to stop automatically if the pilot cannot do so on their own. Even with that system in place, they have their operators keep a close eye on the full length of the track using sensors and video cameras, keeping it safe for all riders.
Get a Glimpse of the Beauty of the Smokies
As you whip through the mountainside on the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, you’ll get a view unlike any other. You’ll get to cruise right past all the yellow buckeye, dogwood and magnolia trees along each side of the track. Plus, get close enough to appreciate all the flowering plants lying just under your sled.
Whether the sun is shining bright, or clouds appear overhead, the sky perfectly frames the beauty of the Smokies from every angle. If you arrive during the evening hours, you can even catch the beginnings of a gorgeous sunset as you cruise on by it all.
You’re sure to walk away with a newfound appreciation for the landscape after riding this coaster. Once you’re done, you can even hit the trails to see it all from a different perspective as well.
By now, you’re likely convinced that the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is definitely the place to be. If you’re ready to ride, you’ll just need to cruise on over to Wears Valley Road to find this rollercoaster eagerly awaiting your arrival. They are open seven days a week and well into the night, so you can always find a convenient time to come on down.
