One of the most popular entertainment destinations in the Smoky Mountains is Anakeesta, a mountaintop theme park filled with whimsical shops, unique dining experiences, live entertainment, and spectacular views of the Smokies! Of course, the highlight of any visit to this Gatlinburg attraction is all of the exciting activities that await you on the top of the mountain! So if you’re curious about what to do at Anakeesta, here are a few incredible Anakeesta attractions that you need to experience:
1. Scenic Chondola Chairlift
If you’ve ever heard that “half the fun is getting there”, this is certainly the case at Anakeesta! The Scenic Chondola Chairlift whisks you from the streets of downtown Gatlinburg on the world’s only fixed-grip Chondola, where you can choose between riding in an open-air 4-person chairlift with a bar or an enclosed gondola with seating for 6! This scenic ride takes you up 600 feet to the summit, and you’ll see a historic campus and natural habitat below during your climb to the top. Keep your eyes out for bears and other wildlife in the forest!
2. Dueling Zipline Adventure
Another of the thrilling Anakeesta activities is the Dueling Zipline Adventure! This is a chance to enjoy gorgeous views and soar from tree to tree, all while zipping side by side with your family and friends! The exciting adventure features a three-zip excursion and multiple rappels for a thrill that will leave you begging for more! Keep in mind that while reservations are not required, they are strongly encouraged as tours sell out quickly!
3. Rail Runner Mountain Coaster
The Rail Runner Mountain Coaster is the first ride of its kind in the United States, as it features a single rail track rather than a dual rail track like the other mountain coasters in the Smokies! This unique aspect allows you to ride even closer to the ground, enhancing the sensation of speed down the mountain! You’ll experience 1,600 feet of downhill twists and turns up to 25 miles per hour, all during a 400-foot change in elevation! The best part is that you’re in control of your own ride with a simple braking mechanism, so enjoy a leisurely ride or go full throttle!
4. AnaVista Tower
While there are plenty of scenic overlooks to enjoy at Anakeesta attractions, you’ll want to climb to the top of the AnaVista Tower for the ultimate viewpoint of the Smokies! This observation tower is the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg and offers 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains, so have your camera ready to capture the best photos of your vacation! The tower is surrounded by Vista Gardens, a lush botanical garden with meandering walking trails and fun interactive play areas for the kids!
5. Treetop SkyWalk
The Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta is the longest tree-based skywalk in North America, with 880 feet of spectacular hanging bridges that are suspended 50 to 60 feet in the air! This is an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you walk through a tree canopy and feel what it feels like to be a bird in the tree tops! You’ll be walking along bridges that sway and move, which adds to the adventure of the activity!
These are just a few of the Anakeesta attractions you’ll want to experience during your Gatlinburg vacation! Want to find a place to stay nearby? Check out all of our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals with great locations, beautiful views, affordable rates, and top-notch amenities!
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