5 Rides You Don’t Want To Miss At Dollywood

Published May 19, 2025

Regardless of what you’re visiting The Great Smoky Mountains for, no trip to Appalachia is complete without a day at Dollywood. This amusement park is considered the best in the United States and is perfect for anyone, no matter their age. From the country fair section of the park to the many delicious Southern cooking style restaurants, and every sort of roller coaster you can think of, there is plenty to do and see.

One of the most thrilling parts of the park are the roller coasters. With over fifty rides and attractions there are many to choose from. Throughout your day you won’t be able to cover every rollercoaster so here are five of our favorite coasters to start out with.

1. The Wild Eagle

A fan favorite, The Wild Eagle soars above the rest of the park. As a steel wing coaster, it’s the first of its kind in the United States. Let your legs dangle high in the air and coast over the crowds. This ride sits twenty-one stories tall over Dollywood and requires a minimum height of 50 inches to ride.

2. Lightning Rod

Lightning Rod is a newer addition to the park opening within the past few years. Its theme is based on a 1950’s era hot rod and it lives up to the theme. Zipping across the tracks this lightning fast ride zooms twenty stories over the park and then plunges 165 feet on a drop. This ride is for roller coaster lovers and will have your blood racing!

3. Big Bear Mountain

This ride is the longest ride at Dollywood, also marking the largest expansion in the park. Enjoy an audio enhanced experience with Ned Oakley narrating the ride as you circle Wildwood Grove for nearly two minutes. This heart stopping coaster will have you on the edge of your seat for the entire trip.

4. Dragonflier

Another tenant of Wildwood Grove, Dragonflier is a face paced, thrill seeker ride. Not only is this unique coaster great for families, a fun fact about it is that it mimics the path of a dragonfly as they glide through the air. If you are planning a trip to Dollywood don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind adventure.

5. Mystery Mine

One of Dollywood’s classic coasters, Mystery Mine is an exhilarating experience. With plenty of twists and turns, a stomach dropping plunge and a spiral that will send you spinning, this ride is great for roller coaster lovers. The theme of the ride is an old Appalachian mine and takes you into the past as you fly above the park.

No matter the ride you choose, Dollywood has plenty to offer. When you come to visit Dollywood and you’re looking for a place to stay look no further than Heartland Cabin Rentals. This company has every sort of cabin you might look for with all kinds of amenities. Book your cabin today!