Introduction

Set amongst the majestic splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains, Anakeesta is an awe-inspiring mountaintop experience with a mix of adventure, nature, and peace. It’s an outdoor escapade no family, nature enthusiast, thrill camper, or one hoping to be treated to the unmatched beauty of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, can afford to miss. In this article, we discuss what Anakeesta has in store for you, ranging from panoramic vistas and heart-thumping zip lines to peaceful botanical gardens and immersive dining experiences.

What is Anakeesta? A Mountaintop Village Like No Other

Anakeesta, named for the Cherokee term for “place of the balsams,” is the stunning mountain ridge on which it sits. Since its opening in 2017, the resort has become one of Gatlinburg’s highest-rated attractions, blending outdoor recreation with cultural sensitivity and ecotourism. The journey starts with a scenic Chondola ride — an open-air chairlifts and covered gondola cabins combination — that takes visitors from downtown Gatlinburg up to the top of Anakeesta Mountain, 600 feet high.

Scenic Rides: Fly to the Top with the Anakeesta Chondola or Ridge Rambler

There are two methods of arriving at Anakeesta:

1. Chondola Ride: A calm, serene lift with panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.
2. Ridge Rambler: A tough, military-style vehicle that rumbles through the forest on a winding path and along the mountain.
3. Both tours take a ride to remember to the top, getting visitors ready for what they will discover up there.

Treetop Skywalk: Walk Among the Canopy

Shortly after reaching the summit of the mountain, visitors are greeted with one of Anakeesta’s most highly desired features — the Treetop Skywalk. This longest tree-established skywalk in North America measures 880 feet long with hanging bridges suspended 50–60 feet off the forest floor. Travelers are immersed in this trail to experience various views of the Smokies, surrounded by healthy greenery sounds and local wildlife.

AnaVista Tower: Jaw-Dropping 360° Views

For panoramic views across several states, AnaVista Tower is a must-visit. The tallest downtown Gatlinburg monument, the view tower provides:

• 360-degree Smoky Mountain views.
• Interpretive signs pointing to mountain summits and nearby landmarks.
• Landscaped Vista Gardens at ground level.

For nature observation, photography, or simply a need to unwind and relax, AnaVista Tower is among the most picture-perfect and peaceful locations in Anakeesta.

Thrills & Adventure: Dueling Zipline Adventure is available for the adventure-seeker to experience a heart-stopping adventure. Zip a partner through the forest canopy on three ziplines, accompanied by rappels and scenic views along the way. Features include:

• Professional guides for safety and enjoyment.
• Hand-free braking systems for a more pleasant ride.
• An exciting ride above the mountain’s slopes and treetops.
• The zipline course is challenging and interactive with picturesque views.

Rail Runner Mountain Coaster: Tennessee’s First Single-Rail Coaster

The Rail Runner is Anakeesta’s showpiece coaster — Tennessee’s first single-rail coaster. On a 1,600-foot downhill track, riders will enjoy:

Speeds of up to 25 mph.

A drop and turn around the Smoky Mountain landscape.

The option to control your speed for an individualized ride.

It’s adventure and control combined perfectly, great for thrill riders and safety-conscious riders alike.

Kids’ Adventure: Treehouse Village Adventure and Splash Pad

Anakeesta has something for everyone, including specialty areas for kids:

Treehouse Village Adventure: Wacky play area with rope bridges, netted walkways, and treehouses to climb into and explore.

BearVenture Challenge Course: For older children, this ropes challenge course has netted obstacles and climbing routes.

Splash Pad: Cool water play area where kids can beat the heat of hot summer days.

These spaces are safe and interactive places for children to expend their energy and experience the magic of nature.

Dining in the Sky: Rooftop Epicurean Adventures

No trip to Anakeesta would be complete without enjoying its superb mountaintop dining. From dining on a full meal to something more informal, there are options that are both delicious and breathtaking:

Cliff Top Restaurant: This restaurant in Black Bear Village serves gourmet burgers, steak, and Southern cuisine, as well as mountain panaramic views.

Smokehouse: Casual BBQ spot for pulled pork, brisket, and specialty sides, enjoyed amidst rustic settings.

Kephart Café & Taproom: Sit here in this mountain-themed café to quickly grab a pizza or a brew.

Dining spots have outdoor seating where patrons can dine while taking in the breathtaking views.

Shopping: Appalachian Treasures & Artisan Wares

Anakeesta has a couple of special shopping experiences highlighting locally made merchandise, souvenirs, and artifacts of the Appalachian area. Some of the highest-rated attractions are:

The Mercantile: Family operated general store with handmade candles, home decor, and vintage gifts.

Great Outdoors Trading Company: Camping gear and accessories.

Catchin’ Fireflies Boutique: A quaint boutique for apparel, jewelry, and special accessories.

Each boutique is meticulously crafted to embody the history and character of the Smoky Mountains.

Events & Seasonal Attractions: Magic in Every Season

Anakeesta transforms with the seasons, with special events and holiday decorations throughout the year:

• Blooms & Tunes (Spring): Includes garden exhibitions, live tunes, and art sculptures.
• Summer in the Smokies: Firefly evenings, sunset concert, and extended park hours.
• Fall in Anakeesta: Vibrant autumn color, seasonal goodies, and harvest decor.
• Enchanted Winter of Lights: Magical holiday light display with celebratory environment.

New things to do each season ensure Anakeesta is a return destination.

Sustainability and Conservation Efforts

Anakeesta isn’t only a vacation destination — it’s a guardian of the land. The park is built with sustainability in mind, including:

• Low tree removal during its construction.
• Native plant landscaping and reforestation efforts.
• Conservation awareness educational signage.

Their dedication to maintaining the Smoky Mountain ecosystem is reflected in each step of the park.

Tickets, Prices & Planning Your Visit

Admission fees differ according to age and special seasonal offers. Tickets usually have access to:

• Chondola or Ridge Rambler ride
• Treetop Skywalk
• AnaVista Tower
• Treehouse Village
• Gardens and nature trails

Add-ons like the zipline and mountain coaster may be bought separately or as part of a value package.

Tips for Your Visit:

• Plan to get there early to minimize lines.
• Bring walking shoes.
• Bring sunscreen and water, particularly on hot days.
• Plan for 4–6 hours to have time to fully experience the park.

How to Go to Anakeesta

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Conveniently located directly across Ripley’s Aquarium, Anakeesta is just a few minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, with Sevierville close by as well.

Parking options include near public lots or the Anakeasta garage (fees paid), with Chondola access and ticket booths easily nearby the Parkway.

Why Anakeasta is a Must-Visit in Gatlinburg

Anakeesta offers a Smoky Mountain experience like no other, one that is deeply interactive and blending natural beauty with family fun and eco-friendly adventure. From soaring through the forest on the zipline to walking through gardens in serenity and quiet or dining on Southern fare above the clouds, every Anakeesta experience is specially designed to inspire and educate.