Moonshine Mountain Coaster

The Moonshine Mountain Coaster, formerly the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster, is a mountain roller coaster right on the Gatlinburg Parkway. A lift pulls your car up the hill, then you control your own speed on the way down through turns and dips. It runs year-round, rain or shine, and after dark the ride lights up with a light show.

How the ride works

You ride in a single or double car on a track built into the mountainside. A motorized lift pulls you up to the top, so there's no climbing. On the way down, a brake handle lets you choose your speed. Take it slow and enjoy the views, or let it run for the full thrill. You can't stop completely or go too slowly, so keep it moving.

Ride it at night

After dark, the coaster lights up with a light show, which makes a night ride feel completely different from a daytime one. If you can, try it both ways. For more evening fun, see our guide to things to do in Gatlinburg at night.

Rider requirements

Riding as a passenger — passengers must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall, and must ride with a driver who is at least 16.

Riding alone — there's no minimum age to ride alone, as long as the rider meets the height requirement.

Weight limit — the maximum is 375 pounds per car in dry weather and 330 pounds in wet weather.

Other restrictions — pregnant guests can't ride. Check moonshinemountaincoaster.com for the full, current rider rules before you go.

Tickets

Single rides and multi-ride packages are available at the ticket booth or online at moonshinemountaincoaster.com. A multi-ride package is a good way to ride once in the day and again after dark. Group rates are available, too. Prices change, so check the website for current rates.

Tips for your visit

Secure loose items — leave phones, hats, and sunglasses in the car or with someone on the ground.

Go early on busy days — evenings and weekends in peak season bring the longest lines.

Let nervous riders drive — since you control the brake, nobody goes faster than they want to.

Check the weather — the coaster runs in light rain but may close for storms. Take a look at our Gatlinburg live webcams before you head over.

More mountain coasters

Mountain coasters are a Smoky Mountain favorite. In Gatlinburg, Anakeesta and Ober Gatlinburg have coasters of their own. In Pigeon Forge, try the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, Goats on the Roof, or Lost Mine Mountain Coaster. Compare them all in our guide to Smoky Mountain coasters.

Nearby

The coaster sits near the north end of downtown. Ride the incline up to Hillbilly Golf, take a scary walk through Mysterious Mansion, cross the SkyBridge at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, or see the sharks at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Looking for more thrills? Try a zipline tour with CLIMB Works. For lunch or dinner, No Way Jose's is a short walk away. See all things to do in Gatlinburg.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Moonshine Mountain Coaster the same as the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster?

Yes. The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is now called the Moonshine Mountain Coaster, at the same location on the Parkway.

Where is the Moonshine Mountain Coaster?

At 306 Parkway, near the north end of downtown Gatlinburg.

How fast does it go?

You control your speed with a brake handle, up to about 30 miles per hour.

How old do you have to be to ride?

Passengers must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall, riding with a driver 16 or older. There's no minimum age to ride alone if you meet the height requirement.

Is it open in the rain?

Yes. The coaster runs rain or shine, but it may close temporarily during storms.

Can you ride at night?

Yes. The coaster is open after dark, with a light show along the track.

How long is the ride?

About five minutes, including the ride up.