Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, TN

Where is Anakeesta?

Anakeesta is located in the heart of Gatlinburg at 576 Parkway.

What time does Anakeesta open?

Anakeesta is open year-round, but operating hours will vary throughout the year. The park typically opens at 9 am Memorial Day through December and at 10 am January and February. March and April opening times can vary. For Anakeesta hours of operation during your next Gatlinburg visit, please check the operating calendar in the ticket section above.

Can you drive to Anakeesta?

You can't drive to Anakeesta Mountain. However, there are three fun ways to the park included in Anakeesta admission tickets. You can take an enclosed Chondola ride, an open-air chairlift, or the Ridge Rambler adventure truck that includes a 20-minute guided tour.

Is parking available?

Anakeesta does not offer guest parking. However, paid public parking is available adjacent to Anakeesta allowing for convenient access to Anakeesta Mountain. Guests can also find nearby parking at two City parking garages, one across the street at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the other at Traffic Light #3, the McMahan Parking Garage. There are also several public parking lots and two City-owned parking garages nearby, one across the street at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the other at Traffic Light #3 (the McMahan Parking Garage).

Is Anakeesta wheelchair accessible?

While many parts of Anakeesta are wheelchair accessible like the Firefly Village shops, dining pavilion, Black Bear Village, and scenic viewing platforms, there are some areas that are not accessible by wheelchair or stroller such as the Vista Gardens and Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta. However, Anakeesta's Gondola cabins are 32″ wide and 49″ deep to accommodate both wheelchairs and strollers for your ride to the summit. Please note: Beginning August 8 through Spring 2023 the access ramp into Vista Gardens/AnaVista Tower will be closed due to continued expansion of the park.

What should I wear?

Anakeesta suggests wearing comfortable clothing and shoes that are appropriate for the area's changing weather. If you will be ziplining (additional), then you are required to wear close-toed shoes and be able to pull back long hair.

Are pets allowed?

Anakeesta does not allow pets. However, ADA certified service animals are permitted.

Is Anakeesta open in the rain?

East Tennessee is subject to many different types of weather conditions. Anakeesta is an outdoor theme park and many of the rides and activities are designed to operate safely in a variety of weather conditions including rain, snow and light winds. Weather conditions are monitored at all times for the safety of Anakeesta guests and staff. With this in mind, staff may choose to suspend operations during periods of inclement weather. The park does not issue refunds for tickets that have been redeemed and impacted by bad weather. Please check the weather prior to entry.

What does Anakeesta mean?

Anakeesta is a Cherokee Native American word for high ground, literal meaning “place of the balsams.” It is often associated to a massive rock formation known as Anakeesta rock that is mostly slate. You can see Anakeesta rock outcroppings in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at spots like Chimney Tops and Charlie’s Bunion.

What is Anakeesta?

Anakeesta is a unique and award-winning outdoor adventure park located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It is accessible from downtown via the Chondola's chair lift and gondola cabins, or their Ridge Rambler vehicles. The theme park offers a 14-bridge Treetop Skywalk, an observation tower with 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains, an interactive challenge course, meandering trails, gardens and waterfalls, shops, restaurants, and more. Thrill seekers can purchase tickets onsite for ziplining and Rail Runner mountain coaster.

Where do I redeem the tickets?

You will need to redeem your voucher at the Ticket Booth Window prior to entering the attraction.