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Last month, some friends and I headed down to Tennessee, and we found an absolute “gem” of an attraction: Moonshine Mountain Coaster. We were so excited, though I’ll admit a few of us were a little nervous because none of us had ever been on a mountain coaster before. It was exhilarating and nothing like any amusement park ride we’ve ever ridden!
Check out this quick clip of our experience before we dive into the details!
The Silent Climb: Building the Anticipation
As soon as we arrived, I loved the “old-timey” vibe, starting with the moonshiner height chart where we had to check our stats.
We grabbed our VIP tickets and headed for the tracks. The anticipation really starts the second you leave the loading station.
Unlike the loud, clanking chains on a regular roller coaster, the uphill lift takes you to the top on a specially-designed silent track. As you’re going up, you realize it is a really big hill. It gives you a few quiet minutes to look around and think, “Look how far up I am!”.
For a naturalist like me, this is the perfect time to spot some native plant life. Even in March, the scenery was “stunning,” and you can see the structure of the American Beech (Fagus grandifolia) and Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) before the summer canopy fills in.
The Descent: You’re in the Driver’s Seat
Once you hit the top, gravity takes over, and that is where the real fun begins. What makes this different from an amusement park is the control. You sit in a single or double rider car and use individual brake handles right at your sides to decide your own pace.
The Rush: If you want that “wind in your face” feeling, you can let the handles go all the way forward and fly down the mountain at speeds up to 30 mph.
The Crew: One of the best parts of going with the group was watching the perspective from the track. Since I was at the back of our line, I got to see my friends, like Logan, way ahead of me starting their descent on the winding track.
The Scenic Route: If the mountain view is too “stunning” to pass up, you can pull back on the brakes to slow down and really soak in the forest.
People I talked to said that in the summer, the track becomes a “green tunnel” of lush foliage, and the fall is supposedly magical when the Sugar Maples (Acer saccharum) turn brilliant orange and gold.
Practical Details for Your Visit
Ages & Height: Perfect for the whole family! Riders must be at least 3 years old and 38″ tall to ride with an adult. To drive your own car, you need to be 56″ tall.
Amenities: They have a great parking area right on the Parkway near Traffic Light #2. The station is well-maintained and even has beautiful flower boxes that add to the charm.
Insider Tip: Go for the VIP pass! It’s worth it to ensure you get your ride in without a long wait. Also, be careful not to drop your phone while you’re taking in those views from the top! Also note, other mountain coasters in Gatlinburg prohibit phone usage.
If you are looking for a way to create unforgettable memories this season, Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a must-visit. Whether you are a college student looking for “honest fun” or a parent looking to thrill the kids, you will love it. We are already planning our next trip back as a full family!
Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
https://www.moonshinemountaincoaster.com/
Call to Action: Have you ever visited a mountain coaster? Let us know if you’re a “speed demon” or a “scenic cruiser” in the comments!
