Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride

Experience the First Coaster in Gatlinburg at Moonshine Mountain Coaster

The Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a unique thrill ride right in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with a ticket price of $17 per person. It’s a 15-minute to 1-hour experience, with the core ride lasting about 5 minutes. The coaster opened in December 2014 as Gatlinburg’s first-ever coaster, blending scenic mountain views with an exciting, family-friendly adventure.

This tour is especially appealing for those wanting a personalized, controllable ride. The coaster features a brake system that allows riders to manage their own speed, making it suitable for both thrill seekers and families. With good weather necessary for operation, this experience is a great choice for visitors seeking a short but memorable ride amid the Smoky Mountains’ stunning scenery.

Central Location at 306 Parkway in Gatlinburg

The Moonshine Mountain Coaster is conveniently located at 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. It’s easy to find and accessible, with nearby public transportation options. The attraction remains open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM during the summer months, offering ample flexibility for scheduling your ride.

Visitors can enjoy the scenic surroundings of the Gatlinburg mountains while waiting in line or relaxing before their turn. The central location makes it simple to combine this experience with other nearby attractions or activities in Gatlinburg.

What Makes the Coaster a Family-Friendly Thrill Ride

The Moonshine Mountain Coaster is designed to be suitable for most ages, with the ability for riders to control their speed using a hand brake. It’s described as super fun for all ages, with many riders enjoying multiple runs—some doing both day and night rides.

While the ride lasts only about 5 minutes, the scenic views of the mountains and the smooth, tubular rails give it a comfortable and enjoyable feel. The friendly, professional staff ensures safety and adds a welcoming vibe, making it a great activity for families or groups looking for a quick, fun thrill.

The Ride: Scenic Mountain Views and Smooth Track

The coaster track runs approximately 5 minutes from start to finish, including 3 minutes uphill and 2 minutes downhill. The smooth tubular rails guarantee a comfortable ride every time, providing a gentle yet exciting experience.

Riders get the best of both worlds: beautiful mountain scenery and the adrenaline rush of controlling their speed. The night ride experience is especially praised, as it allows riders to see Gatlinburg’s lights while enjoying the thrill of the coaster.

The Unique Brake System Gives You Control

One of the most appreciated features is the hand brake that allows each rider to adjust their speed during the ride. Many reviews highlight that this feature makes the experience more fun and accessible for younger children, as they can slow down or speed up based on their comfort level.

This control system also means the ride can be tailored to individual preferences, whether someone wants a slow cruise or a full throttle rush. It’s a distinct feature that sets this coaster apart from traditional fixed-speed rides.

The 5-Minute Journey Offers a Short but Exciting Experience

While some find the ride duration to be short, at about 5 minutes, many agree that the quality of the experience more than makes up for the length. Visitors enjoy multiple runs, especially if they do a daytime and nighttime ride.

The short duration makes this coaster a great option for those wanting a quick thrill without a long wait or commitment. Despite its brevity, the views and control make it a memorable part of any Gatlinburg day.

Staff and Safety: Friendly and Professional

Reviews consistently mention the friendly, professional staff who operate the coaster. They are described as exceptional and engaging, making guests feel welcome and safe throughout their ride.

Since most travelers can participate and the ride is well-maintained, visitors report feeling confident in their safety. The team’s positive attitude contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment and comfort of the experience.

Best Times to Ride: Day and Night Experiences

Many visitors recommend doing both a daytime and nighttime ride to fully enjoy what the coaster offers. The daytime ride provides bright mountain views, while the night ride offers a spectacular view of Gatlinburg’s lights and a different kind of excitement.

The longer hours of operation allow guests to plan rides at different times of day, maximizing their experience. The fast-moving lines and efficient staff help keep waiting times manageable, even during busier hours.

Accessibility and Weather Considerations

The coaster is accessible to most travelers, with most participants able to ride. However, good weather is essential—poor weather may lead to cancellations. If the ride is canceled due to bad weather, guests are offered the opportunity to reschedule or receive a full refund.

It’s advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your ride, especially if you want to enjoy the nighttime views or avoid disappointment.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Flexibility

The Moonshine Mountain Coaster offers a free cancellation policy, allowing cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled ride for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not eligible for refund.

This flexibility makes it easier to adjust your plans if weather or other factors change unexpectedly, ensuring a stress-free booking experience.

Who Will Enjoy the Coaster Most

This family-friendly coaster is ideal for families with kids, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a short, scenic thrill. The ability to control the speed makes it suitable for younger children and those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

The scenic mountain views combined with friendly staff make this a great activity for anyone looking for a fun, quick ride in Gatlinburg. It’s especially recommended for those who want to combine a thrill with beautiful scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Moonshine Mountain Coaster

The Moonshine Mountain Coaster delivers a fun, scenic experience that appeals to a wide audience. Its controllable speed, smooth track, and stunning mountain views provide excellent value at just $17 per ride. While the short ride duration might leave some wanting more, the ability to do multiple runs and enjoy nighttime views makes it well worth the visit.

This attraction stands out for its friendly staff, easy booking, and accessible location. It’s a great addition to any Gatlinburg itinerary, especially for those seeking a quick, memorable thrill in the Smoky Mountains.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Moonshine Mountain Coaster suitable for children?
Yes, the coaster is designed to be family-friendly, with a hand brake system that allows kids and adults to control their speed. Most participants can ride, but height requirements should be checked as the site mentions infants on laps are not clearly specified.

How long does the ride last?
The core ride lasts approximately 5 minutes, including uphill and downhill sections.

Can I ride at night?
Yes, many reviews praise nighttime rides, especially for the view of Gatlinburg’s lights.

What is the ticket price?
The experience costs $17 per person.

What are the operating hours?
The coaster is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM during the summer season.

Is there a way to cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled ride.

Does bad weather affect rides?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Is the coaster accessible for most guests?
Most travelers can participate, with safety and maintenance guarantees.

What makes this coaster different from others?
The brake system that lets you control your speed and the scenic mountain views are key features.

Would you recommend this experience?
Absolutely, especially for families or those looking for a quick thrill with beautiful scenery.