Big Bear Mountain roller coaster now open at Dollywood
Big Bear Mountain roller coaster, the largest single-attraction investment in Dollywood’s history ($25 million), is now open for all guests to enjoy.
At 3,990 linear feet, Big Bear Mountain is three-quarters of a mile long, the longest roller coaster in the history of the East Tennessee theme park. The ride opened inside the family-friendly Wildwood Grove nature-themed kids’ section of the park, allowing riders of all ages to enjoy the thrill (minimum height requirement is 39 inches / 3’2″).
The new coaster marked a significant expansion to Wildwood Grove, which opened in 2019. The coaster hugs six acres of the grove’s rolling hills, and reaches a top speed of 48 mph, through three separate launches, multiple airtime hills, high-speed carousel turns & tunnels, including a breathtaking pass behind a waterfall (the always exciting back side of water!)
With theming elements throughout the ride reminiscent of her beloved Smoky Mountains, Dollywood’s Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton, has eagerly anticipated the opening of the new attraction.
“We said we’re going to expand Wildwood Grove, and we really meant it,” Parton said. “This ride is bigger than … well, Big Bear! Seriously though, I’m so glad we’re able to incorporate so much of the Smokies into this ride. I’m proud of where I’m from, and these Smoky Mountains truly are so much a part of me and who I am to this day.”
The first riders included a group of kids dressed as junior park rangers from neighboring Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a tribute to the coaster’s Smoky Mountain theme. Upon boarding, riders are launched from the ride station in coaster cars that resemble tiny SUV’s as they embark on an exhilarating search for the elusive “Big Bear,” a mythical animal of epic proportions.
The Big Bear Mountain roller coaster was built by ride manufacturer Vekoma and is the first Dollywood attraction to feature onboard audio. The sound system enhances the story elements by matching the ride’s movements as guests come daringly close to Big Bear. Each highly-detailed SUV coaster train features working headlights and taillights and seats 20 guests.
Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort
In addition to the opening of the Big Bear Mountain roller coaster, this year The Dollywood Company is also slated to open its second resort property, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.
Tucked away in a beautiful cove in the rolling foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Lodge will welcome the outdoors in with high ceilings, exposed beams, and natural layered textures. Spacious family suites and bunk rooms feature touches inspired by the beauty of the Smokies and provide options for multi-generational families and couples. It’s anticipated that the lodge will accept reservations for November and beyond starting next month.
For more information about Big Bear Mountain, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort, and the 2023 operating season, please visit Dollywood.com.
