Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a mountain coaster located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.^[1] It opened on August 3rd, 2016, and was the first mountain coaster to be built in the Smoky Mountains. The coaster is also the longest alpine coaster in the United States as well.

History[edit]

The owners began looking to open an alpine coaster in the U.S. in 2010, with the area being pinpointed in 2011. Construction began on the coaster in January 2013, with its opening in August of that year.^{[2] [3]}

Description[edit]

One to two riders sit in individual carts, which are pulled to the top of a mountain by the means of a cable. Once released at the top, the cart navigates twists and turns down the mountain on a secured rail. Unlike a conventional roller coaster, the cars are equipped with hand brakes, which allow the riders to control their speed. Additionally, the carts themselves have a magnetic braking system to prevent the cart from going too fast.^[4]

Incidents[edit]

On July 30, 2016, two cars collided after one of the riders stopped on the track.^[5] The rider behind the rider who stopped was taken to the hospital for a potential back injury, but was released shortly after.^[6] The coaster reopened less than a week later.^[7]

References[edit]