In the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park stands as a testament to the allure of the Great Smoky Mountains, seamlessly blending adventure with relaxation. This award-winning destination promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, beckoning families, thrill-seekers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Here’s a deep dive into what makes Anakeesta a must-visit attraction.
The Journey Begins
Your adventure at Anakeesta starts with a scenic ride via the Chondola or Ridge Rambler, setting the stage for the wonders that await atop the mountain. As you ascend, the changing landscapes hint at the blend of excitement and serenity the park expertly offers. Upon arrival in Firefly Village, you’re greeted by quaint shops, dining options, and a whimsical mountain atmosphere that underscores Anakeesta’s charm.
A Playground in the Clouds
Anakeesta is a treasure trove of activities designed to immerse guests in the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors.
Among its crown jewels is the Treetop Skywalk, the longest tree-based skywalk in North America, presenting an awe-inspiring journey across over 880 feet of connected bridges suspended 50-60 feet above the verdant forest floor. This elevated adventure not only showcases the lush landscapes and pristine beauty of the Smokies but also offers a bird’s eye view of the diverse ecosystems nestled within this mountainous terrain. As you traverse the skywalk, you are treated to an intimate look at the dense forests, vibrant foliage, and native wildlife, making it a unique experience that marries the thrill of being high up in the air with the tranquil beauty of the natural surroundings.
The Treetop Skywalk is designed to be a journey of discovery and enjoyment for guests of all ages, emphasizing accessibility so that families can share in the beauty of the Smokies together. It provides not just unparalleled views, but also photo opportunities that capture the essence of the mountains’ magnificence from an aerial perspective. Safety and comfort are paramount, with robust handrails and non-slip surfaces ensuring a secure experience for everyone.
Reaching for the skies from the vibrant heart of downtown Gatlinburg, the AnaVista Tower stands as an emblematic beacon, offering visitors a chance to literally elevate their perspective. As the tallest structure in the downtown area, it cuts an impressive silhouette against the Smoky Mountains’ backdrop, inviting guests to ascend to the pinnacle of panoramic opportunity. At the summit, the observation tower presents a spectacular 360-degree vista of the undulating Smoky Mountains and the bustling charm of downtown Gatlinburg. The experience is an enthralling visual symphony that effortlessly captures the grandeur of nature alongside the vibrance of urban life, making it an essential stop for all who seek to witness the full glory of the region from its highest accessible apex.
Thrilling Rides
Enjoy a thrilling journey amidst the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains at Anakeesta theme park, where the Hellbender Mountain Coaster awaits as an exhilarating new addition that is causing a stir among thrill enthusiasts. Drawing its namesake from the region’s intriguing native salamanders, this coaster delivers an adrenaline-packed experience with a series of twists, turns, and breathtaking drops that seamlessly blend into the stunning mountainous landscape.
As you strap into the Hellbender, anticipate a heart-pounding adventure that captures the essence of the wild mountain terrain. The coaster’s route is a masterful creation of engineering, offering a high-velocity descent peppered with moments that allow riders to absorb the picturesque surroundings. Each bend and spiral is meticulously designed to mirror the fluidity and grace of the indigenous salamander, providing an ever-changing vista that guarantees an unforgettable thrill ride.
While the Hellbender Mountain Coaster boasts a design that appeals to those in search of an invigorating thrill ride, it doesn’t skimp on safety or comfort. The carts are built with supportive back and headrests, and both solo and tandem options are available, ensuring it is an accessible attraction for families, even those with younger children eager to join in on the fun.
Complementing the Hellbender is the Rail Runner, another Anakeesta exclusive that’s pioneering single-rail mountain coaster experiences in the United States. Proving itself as a mainstay for adventure lovers, the Rail Runner sends its riders soaring down 1,600 feet of track with curves that hug the mountainside and an impressive 400-foot elevation change, all at speeds reaching up to 25 mph. Riders are put in control of their speed, making the experience as daring or as mellow as they wish, capped with a leisurely ascent back to the mountaintop.
Anakeesta’s duo of mountain coasters—the Hellbender and the Rail Runner—offer distinct and thrilling experiences for all visitors. The Hellbender Mountain Coaster is not just about the raw thrill; it’s an adventure that harmonizes intense excitement with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Smoky Mountains. The Rail Runner adds to the adventure, enchanting guests with its innovative single-rail design and breathtaking descent.
Visitors to Anakeesta can now experience the rush they crave while immersing themselves in the natural beauty that has made the Smoky Mountains a legendary destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re there to feel the wind in your hair on a high-speed dash or to take in the sights at a bird’s eye view, Anakeesta’s mountain coasters offer a thrilling complement to the serene backdrop.
Elevate your Smoky Mountains adventure with Anakeesta’s Dueling Zipline Adventure in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This exhilarating experience invites you to soar from tree to tree, side by side with friends and family, offering a unique perspective on the mountains’ natural beauty. With a course that features three thrilling zipline excursions and multiple rappel opportunities, adventurers of all ages will find themselves captivated by the breathtaking views and the rush of adrenaline. Anakeesta’s expert guides are ready to ensure your experience is safe and memorable, making reservations a wise choice to secure your spot on this popular attraction, as tours tend to sell out quickly.
Vista Gardens
Anakeesta’s Vista Gardens embodies the essence of tranquility and beauty, offering a serene escape to visitors in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Born from the ashes of the Chimney Top II Wildfires of 2016, this garden transformed a once-charred landscape into a vibrant tapestry of life and color. As an experiential sensory garden walk, Vista Gardens invites guests to immerse themselves in the wonder of the Smoky Mountains through a journey that engages all the senses. With every step, visitors can enjoy the melodious sounds of garden chimes and cascading waterfalls, feel the cool mountain breezes, and marvel at the lush vegetation that thrives in this enchanting environment. The gardens also feature interactive elements like the wisteria-covered misting tunnel, bringing an added layer of discovery and delight to this nature-filled oasis.
In 2022, the rejuvenation and dedication of Anakeesta’s team were recognized when Vista Gardens was awarded Arboretum status by ArbNet, highlighting its commitment to tree study, conservation, and enjoyment. This designation not only underscores the garden’s role in the ecological and educational landscape of the Smokies but also marks it as a testament to the resiliency and beauty of nature. From sharing a moment at the iconic heart twigloo to the laughter of children exploring TreeVenture and BearVenture, each corner of Vista Gardens offers a unique experience.
Nighttime Enchantment
Astra Lumina thrills the imagination with an array of installations, each weaving into the next part of a cosmic tale that captures the intimate dance between Earth and the heavens. Starting at the Astra Archway, bathed in starlight, guests step through into an electrified realm where they can interact with Falling Stars and listen to the harmonious Cosmic Choir. Traverse the realms where Stardust Rays commingle with treetops and Nebular Waves reveal the dreams of constellations. Stellar Visions propel you on a voyage to uncover the origins of stars, leading to the Celestial Trail where the confluence of astral energy ebbs and flows beneath your feet. A crescendo awaits at Astral Genesis, a place to witness the rebirth of stars before their majestic Rise to rejoin the night sky in a spectacle that outshines the imagination. This enchanted walk culminates in a chance to seize the stellar moment forever at the Photo Booth, capturing memories against the backdrop of an intimate encounter with the cosmos. Astra Lumina beckons not just stargazers but all who seek a connection with the starlit wonders of the night, casting Anakeesta as a beacon for cosmic discovery and interstellar awe.
As you meander through this whimsical mountaintop theme park, an air of relaxation washes over you, inviting you to unwind by the cozy fire pit, explore the variety of shops offering sweet treats and souvenirs, or savor slow-smoked southern BBQ while soaking in the scenic vistas of Downtown Gatlinburg and the expansive National Park. The charm of Firefly Village is further enhanced by live music, quick bites, and outdoor seating options, alongside an elevated dining experience at places like Cliff Top in Black Bear Village, making it a perfect gathering spot for friends and family looking to immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere of the Smokies.
Dining at Firefly Village transforms every meal into an occasion, with venues like the Clifftop Restaurant serving modern American cuisine against the backdrop of stunning views of Mt. LeConte and the Smoky Mountains. Here, guests can indulge in steaks, gourmet burgers, savory appetizers, and house-made desserts, complemented by local craft beers and a full bar. The ambience, whether you choose to sit indoors or on the outdoor deck, elevates the dining experience, making every moment memorable. For those seeking a casual yet equally gratifying culinary journey, the Smokehouse BBQ restaurant, located within the village, offers in-house smoked meats and southern barbecue classics that promise to tantalize your taste buds.
Experience Anakeesta and Vacation with Smoky Mountain Holiday
Choosing to visit Anakeesta and vacationing with us at Smoky Mountain Holiday offers more than just a getaway; it promises an unforgettable adventure where nature, leisure, and magical moments intertwine. Anakeesta is not just a destination; it’s a vibrant journey through whimsical Firefly Village, exhilarating tree-top experiences, mesmerizing night walks like Astra Lumina, and opportunities to simply relax and soak in stunning panoramic views. Each unique attraction and carefully designed experience speaks to the heart of all age groups, whether you’re seeking thrill, serenity, or a bit of both.
So why choose between adventure and relaxation when you can have both? At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we are committed to ensuring that your stay is comfortable, your experiences are seamless, and your memories are filled with the joy and wonder of the Great Smoky Mountains. Visit Anakeesta and let us take care of the rest, making certain your vacation is as splendid as the vistas surrounding us. We invite you to step into this enchanting world, where each day ends with beautiful mountain sunsets and a renewed appreciation for the wonder of nature. Join us at Smoky Mountain Holiday, where every stay is special, and every visitor leaves with their spirits lifted and hearts full, looking forward to their next visit.