Sometimes you just need to live on the edge, take a risk, and challenge your “normal.” Vacation is the perfect time to do just that. And Pigeon Forge has a slew of options to bring out the wild adventurer in you. These extreme Pigeon Forge adventures pack a serious punch, whether you’re a hardcore adventurer at heart or just starting to venture a little past the edge of your comfort zone.
1. Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Photo Credit: @iamraghuvamsi
There are a generous handful of zip line options in the Pigeon Forge area, but Smoky Mountain Ziplines has been a trusted favorite for years; in fact, it’s been in continuous operation longer than any of its competition. On a Smoky Mountain Zipline tour, you’ll traverse thousands of feet of cable traversing some of the Smoky’s most breathtaking views. Comfortable, carefully-fitted gear take you through the 4,200+ feet of cable to explore. And unlike many other tours that are over in minutes, you’ll feel like you have time to relax and enjoy the scenery on this one–even while you’re zipping as much as 150 feet above the ground.
2. Goats on the Roof Alpine Coaster
Even hardcore coaster riders love this unique roller-coaster experience. The alpine coaster at Goats on the Roof is not the fastest or twistiest coaster on the block, but it is unique: you’ll be alone (or along with one friend) in a cart on the tracks, with a handbrake that allows you to control your own speed as you zip through the woods and past spellbinding Smoky Mountain views. The coaster’s max speed is about 30 mph–fairly modest in terms of roller coasters, but still a thrill! Perfect for riders aged 3 and up.
3. The Mountain Monster
The Mountain Monster complex brings together three intense amusement rides into one white-knuckle experience that’ll keep thrill-seekers coming back for more. The first experience drops you from a 175′ tower at a speed of 65 mph–and you’re facing the ground when it happens. The next ride drops you the same difference–this time sitting up, not laying down, for a completely different sensation. The last ride catapults you 140 feet into the air–and completes the experience with an optional flip at the top.
4. TopJump Trampoline Park
Jump it out at TopJump Trampoline Park, an activity that knocks it out of the park for kids and adults alike. A kid-friendly section for kids under 42″ gives younger visitors an adult-free space to jump, and huge open-jump trampolines for all ages allow you to let loose and practice your back handspring to your heart’s content. The kid’s section includes a foam pit and ball pit, as well as smaller-sized trampolines; the adult’s side includes a huge open-jump area, an adult dodge-ball area, and more general trampolines for everyone to expend some pent-up energy and stress.
5. XTreme Racing Center
Think go-carts are a little too tame to make it on an adventure list? Then you’ve never ridden the go-carts at XTreme Racing Center. Here you’ll find world-class Sodi racing carts that travel an impressive 40+ mph. And you’ll have plenty of room to get out there and pick up speed: a 3,500-foot track keeps things interesting as you race your family and friends. Even the youngest members of the family can enjoy zipping along here; kids as young as 3 can ride with a parent on an elevated track.
6. Outdoor Gravity Park
For a unique rush you won’t find elsewhere in the contiguous 48, head to the Outdoor Gravity Park for a bit of Zorbing. Zorbing involves rolling down a hill inside a transparent plastic ball; you’re cushioned from impact, so no worries about getting hurt, but the adrenaline runs high on three different tracks–featuring zig-zags, obstacles, or the speediest route of all: a smooth, 1,000-foot-long track to the bottom. Perfect for ages 5 and up.
7. The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Featuring the longest downhill track in the country, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster offers a one-of-a-kind coasting experience in a cart you control with your own handbrake. You’ll drop 363′ in altitude over the course of the track as you travel down the mountain at speeds up to 27 mph. The ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and you’ll have several minutes to enjoy the scenery while grinning your way down the absurdly fun experience.
Still looking for adventure? Although these are fan favorites, you can always explore the abundant mountain biking and hiking trails the Smokies have to offer for a different kind of walk on the wild side. White water rafting, kayaking, and guided ATV rides are just a few of the options intrepid explorers love about the Pigeon Forge area.
