Anakeesta, an adventure park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is opening a new play area and mountain coaster later this year as part of its Stone Village expansion.
The new Hellbender Smoky Mountain Coaster and BirdVenture children’s play space are the second phase in a multi-year, $34 million expansion plan at Anakeesta.
“From day one, our mission at Anakeesta was to deliver on an experience that embraces nature, seamlessly blending the landscape and breathtaking views to create unforgettable family memories,” said Anakeesta founding partner Bob Bentz.
Both new attractions are part of the upcoming European-themed Stone Village, which will include Anakeesta’s largest retail outlet, Elk Exchange, as well as a themed F&B venue.
“As a must-visit destination in Tennessee, we are dedicated to continuously enhancing the guest experience,” Bentz added.
“With irresistible thrills, entertainment, and immersive adventures, our park has become a can’t-miss destination for visitors seeking the ultimate Great Smoky Mountain escape.”
The aviary-themed BirdVenture adventure zone includes three oversized bird houses, various interactive adventure areas, and a unique slide complex winding more than 50 feet down the mountain.
$34 million expansion plan
The new Hellbender ride, named after the salamander species native to the mountain range, is a double-railed coaster with a steep mountain incline and views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Hellbender will send riders down 3,350 feet of track, and through 90-degree and 270-degree turns and a 360-degree spin, before returning to the summit.
Additionally, on 9 September Anakeesta is launching the new Bear-Varian Fall Festival, featuring a range of local and regional beers and ciders, and German-inspired food. The festival will be running through 31 October.
As well as the new attractions, Anakeesta is home to the longest treetop ‘skywalk’ experience in the US, a multi-sensory botanical garden with art installations, challenge courses, and the Rail Runner mountain coaster.
