Full Spring Reopening to come later this Spring; will feature Crystal Express and New Experiences
Anakeesta is pleased to announce a partial reopening to the public beginning March 9, 2026. Guests will once again be welcomed to the mountaintop park with access via the Ridge Rambler adventure trucks.
In this initial phase of reopening, guests will travel to the summit exclusively aboard the Ridge Rambler, offering a scenic and immersive journey up the mountain. Firefly Village will remain temporarily closed for construction, including the Smokehouse restaurant and select retail locations. Additional attractions, dining, and retail experiences will open in phases as the park prepares for its full reopening this spring.
During this period, admission will be managed through timed-entry tickets to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable guest experience. Guests are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to secure their preferred arrival time and assist with trip planning.
“This partial reopening is an exciting milestone for our team and our guests,” said Anakeesta President, Bryce Bentz. “We’re thrilled to welcome visitors back to the mountain beginning March 9, and we’re building toward an even bigger moment later this spring.”
That big moment will be Anakeesta’s full reopening, highlighted by the debut of the all-new Crystal Express, a state-of-the-art 56-glass gondola system designed to elevate the guest arrival experience. The Crystal Express will feature sleek glass gondola cabins offering breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains, delivering a smooth, modern, and memorable ride to the summit.
In addition to the new Crystal Express, Anakeesta will introduce the Firefly Experience, an immersive attraction inspired by the natural synchronous glow of fireflies in the Smokies. This enchanting experience uses state-of-the-art lighting and design to recreate the magical dance of light through storytelling and nature-driven moments, bringing the wonder of this beloved seasonal phenomenon to life for guests all year long.
For a limited time, general admission tickets will include unlimited rides on both of Anakeesta’s mountain coasters, giving thrill-seekers the opportunity to maximize their adventure and enjoy nonstop excitement over the next few weeks. For more information and to purchase timed-entry tickets, visit www.anakeesta.com.