Top 5 Fun Things to Do at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

If you're looking for a Smoky Mountain attraction to visit that can keep the whole family occupied all afternoon, look no further than Anakeesta in Gatlinburg! This unique amusement park has everything from mountain coasters to ziplines and so much in between. To help you make the most of your trip, here are 5 of the top things to do there.


1. Ride the Scenic Chondola

Anakeesta Chondolas

Your adventure begins as you take a ride on the Scenic Chondola up to Anakeesta in Gatlinburg! You can either ride in an open-air, 4-person chair or an enclosed gondola cabin with seating for 6. This breathtaking ride will carry you and your family up 600 feet to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain where you will hop off at Firefly Village.


2. Shop and Eat at Firefly Village

Magical Firefly Village is built among the treetops in the heart of the Smokies! You'll find numerous scenic overlooks and a nearly 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain range, including Mt. LeConte, as well as the sparkling downtown area of Gatlinburg. There are also a variety of shops for you to explore and plenty of places to grab a delicious bite to eat.


3. Race on a Dueling Zipline

dueling zipline sign at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

You can zip above the forest floor right alongside friends and family when you visit the Dueling Zipline in Anakeesta! Test your courage on one of 2 challenge stations where you'll rappel off platforms and enjoy a controlled descent to a cushioned platform. All 3 ziplines also offer beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains for you to enjoy as you glide along the short, downhill path to the Chondola mid-station. From there, you can sit back and relax as you ride the Scenic Chondola back up to the summit of the mountain.


4. Enjoy the Thrills of the Rail Runner

The Rail Runner Mountain Coaster at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg is the first of its kind in the United States! This innovative, single-rail coaster allows you to ride lower to the ground as you soar down the mountainside. The best part is that you can control your own speed. So, you can go a little slower if you just want to get used to the coaster first or race along at speeds up to 25 MPH! You can also choose to ride solo or tandem with a small child. Either way, the back and headrests will make for a comfortable and safe experience.


5. Tree Canopy Walk

Tree Canopy Walk at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg

The Tree Canopy Walk allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature from 40 to 60 feet above the forest floor! This walk consists of 16 connected sky bridges, and each one leads to a new observation platform where you can take in the sights, and learn about your surroundings with interpretive signage. You might even spot some Smoky Mountain wildlife as you look out at everything from above! Find out where else you can enjoy walking above the Smokies! There are so many fun and exciting activities waiting for you at Anakeesta in Gatlinburg! Be sure to check out all the other fun things to do in the Smokies so that you can have an amazing trip!

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