Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has announced the opening date of its new Big Bear Mountain roller coaster.
Launching on 12 May, Big Bear Mountain is the park’s longest roller coaster to date and part of its $500 million expansion.
The $25m family-friendly coaster by Vekoma Rides, the Dutch roller coaster specialist, has maximum speeds of 48 mph, three separate launches, multiple airtime hills, high-speed carousel turns and tunnels.
It also features SUV-style ride vehicles, which were unveiled at IAAPA Expo 2022. Dollywood installed the final pieces of track for the new attraction in January.
“The Smokies are all about adventure and going exploring,” said Dolly Parton.
“I’m excited our guests will be able to head out on their own trip into the Smokies to see if they can find that Big Bear! Whether he’s out there or not, I’m sure they’ll find a lot of memories along the way that they’ll keep forever.”
“Big Bear Mountain is an exciting ride that really is going to be a game changer for us,” added Eugene Naughton, president of the Dollywood Company.
Dollywood’s longest coaster to date
“Not only is it the largest coaster we’ve built, but it includes features – like on-board audio – that are new for our company.”
Opened in 1986, Dollywood is a 160-acre theme park with 40 rides and attractions. It is jointly owned by Herschend Family Entertainment and Dolly Parton.
Dollywood’s new HeartSong Lodge & Resort is also nearing completion. The resort is home to family suites, themed suites and loft rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and an outdoor cove.
