Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster
Off The Spur · Two tracks, every run timed
Two tracks running side by side, so you aren't riding a coaster so much as racing someone down one — every run timed, with a leaderboard and a photo at the finish line. It was built by NASCAR driver BJ McLeod, which explains the whole premise: spirals, an eighty-foot drop to finish, and thirty miles an hour if you stay off the brake. The track is lit, so the night run is a different ride.
The Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster turns a mountain coaster into a head-to-head race. Two tracks run side by side the whole way down, so you and a friend launch together, push your speed and find out who really crosses the finish line first.
Billed as the first side-by-side alpine racing coaster, it's one of the newest thrill rides in the Smokies. It sits just off The Spur, between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
The track
The course is built to keep the race tight from start to finish. You'll take three full 360-degree spirals and an 80-foot double helix, along with drops and curves that test your nerve on the brake. Cars hit speeds of up to 30 miles per hour, and you control your own speed with a hand brake. Take it easy on your first run, then go for it once you know the track.
Race, time and brag
Every run is timed. Check the leaderboard to see how you stack up against your crew and everyone else on the mountain that day. Finish-line photos capture the moment you cross, so there's proof of who won, or a reason for an instant rematch.
Ride after dark
The track is lit at night, and the glowing spirals and helix make an evening run feel completely different from a daytime race. The coaster also hosts seasonal events, like a haunted race in the fall.
Who can ride
Passengers must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall. Drivers must be at least 56 inches tall to ride alone, and at least 16 years old to drive with a passenger. Pregnant guests can't ride.
Plan your visit
115 Conner Heights Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 999-8115
Getting there: The coaster is just off The Spur, the scenic stretch of highway between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
Bring a rival: The fun is in the race, so bring someone to ride against. Families can split into teams and race for bragging rights.
Go back at night: If you can, ride once in daylight and again after dark on the lit track.
More mountain coasters in the Smokies
Make it a coaster day. Try the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, Lost Mine, the coaster at Goats on the Roof and the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster. Compare them all in our roundup of the best coasters in the Smoky Mountains. Looking for more racing? Head to NASCAR SpeedPark.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster?
At 115 Conner Heights Rd in Pigeon Forge, just off The Spur between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
How fast does the racing coaster go?
Up to 30 miles per hour. You control your speed with a hand brake.
How does the racing work?
Two tracks run side by side. You launch with your opponent, race the same course, and your times post to a leaderboard. Finish-line photos show who won.
How tall do you have to be to ride?
Passengers must be at least 3 years old and 38 inches tall. Drivers must be 56 inches to ride alone and 16 or older to drive a passenger.
Can you ride at night?
Yes. The track is lit after dark, and night races are a favorite.
The Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster is minutes from our Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg cabins. Spread out in one of our family cabins, unwind in our hot tub cabins, and book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.