Duration
4-6 hours (full day if including evening Astra Lumina)
Best For
Families with kids 6 and up • Adventure seekers wanting mountain thrills • Couples looking for scenic mountain views
Pro Tip
Skip the small initial Treehouse area and head straight to the bigger TreeVenture challenge course to save your energy. Also, enter the birdhouses in BirdVenture – they have hidden cool features most people miss.
About Anakeesta
Perched 600 feet above downtown Gatlinburg, Anakeesta delivers a unique mountain theme park experience that combines outdoor adventure with stunning Smoky Mountain views. Your visit begins with a scenic Chondola ride up the mountain - choose between an open chair lift or enclosed gondola cabin for the ascent.
The park's crown jewel is the 880-foot Treetop Skywalk, where suspended bridges wind through the forest canopy 50+ feet above ground. For even more impressive vistas, climb AnaVista Tower, which offers Gatlinburg's highest public viewing point with 360-degree mountain panoramas.
Adventure seekers can tackle the TreeVenture challenge course or zoom down dual mountain coasters - the Hellbender and Rail Runner (additional fees apply). Kids especially love the treehouse-style play areas and interactive forest activities spread throughout the 70-acre property.
As evening approaches, the new Astra Lumina light experience transforms the mountain into an enchanted nighttime destination, making Anakeesta worth visiting after dark. Multiple dining options range from casual snacks to full-service restaurants with mountain views.
Plan at least 4-6 hours to fully experience the park's main attractions. Weather can impact certain activities - the AnaVista Tower occasionally closes during high winds, and rain can affect outdoor attractions. Base admission includes the Chondola ride, Treetop Skywalk, and general park access, while some premium experiences require additional tickets. The park operates year-round, though hours vary seasonally, so check the website for current schedules and pricing before your visit.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Treetop Skywalk
This 880-foot hanging bridge system takes you 50+ feet above the forest floor. It's North America's longest tree-based skywalk and honestly gets your adrenaline pumping even if you're not afraid of heights.
AnaVista Tower
The highest viewpoint in Gatlinburg with 360-degree mountain views. On clear days, you can see for miles across the Smokies. Just know that high winds shut it down frequently.
Hellbender Mountain Coaster
This mountain coaster winds through the trees with you controlling the speed. Our teenagers love racing each other down the track. It's an upcharge but worth every penny.
TreeVenture Challenge Course
Multi-level obstacle course through the treetops with rope bridges, climbing walls, and zip elements. Even adults have a blast working through the challenges while taking in mountain views.
Astra Lumina
This nighttime enchanted forest walk transforms the woods with lights, music, and projections. It's the first experience of its kind in the U.S. and absolutely magical for all ages.
Chondola Ride
The scenic chairlift ride up to the park is an experience itself. You're rising 600 feet above downtown Gatlinburg with incredible views of the mountains and city below.
Know Before You Go
- Park downtown and take the Chondola up – no mountain parking available
- Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes for walking bridges and climbing
- Bring layers for changing mountain temperatures and check wind conditions
- Budget extra for popular add-ons like mountain coasters and ziplines
- Most attractions are outdoors, so weather can impact your experience
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Anakeesta
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Anakeesta?
Anakeesta operates daily with seasonal hour variations. They're open for both day and night experiences, including the evening Astra Lumina light show. Check their website for current seasonal hours as they change throughout the year.
How much does Anakeesta cost?
All-day park admission includes unlimited Chondola rides, Treetop Skywalk, AnaVista Tower, TreeVenture, play areas, and gardens. Mountain coasters, ziplines, and some experiences cost extra. Check anakeesta.com for current 2025 pricing.
Do I need reservations for Anakeesta?
Reservations aren't required but are recommended during peak seasons and weekends to guarantee entry. You can buy tickets online in advance or at the gate, but busy times may sell out.
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