Tue, June 30th 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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Anakeesta - There's Magic in the Mountains

Astra Lumina
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Anakeesta - There's Magic in the Mountains

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Anakeesta - There's Magic in the Mountains
Astra Lumina    buy now
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Tue, June 30th 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
865-325-2400

The Hellbender Mountain Coaster

The Hellbender Mountain Coaster at Anakeesta is Gatlinburg’s most thrilling mountain coaster experience. This alpine-style mountain coaster takes you through the stunning scenery of the Smoky Mountains, with fast turns, big drops, and beautiful views along the way. Whether you’re racing solo or riding tandem, the Hellbender lets you control the ride with manual braking for a custom adventure.

 Coaster Pass Add-On : $16.99

 

Photo Sep 22 2023, 11 35 19 AM (1)

Coaster Pass

Ready to feel the rush? The Coaster Pass is your all-access ticket to Anakeesta’s two incredible mountain coasters—the Hellbender and the Rail Runner. Whether you’re chasing speed, soaking in Smoky Mountain views, or riding with a friend, this pass lets you take the experience to the next level.

Each Coaster Pass gives you the flexibility to ride both coasters once, or ride your favorite one twice. You choose how to use it—sample the best of both worlds or double up on the thrills. Please note that individual ride tickets are not available; the Coaster Pass is the only way to ride.

The pass is now included in General Admission, March-May 2026 and is $16.99 May-December 2026. It’s the perfect way to elevate your adventure and make the most of your day on the mountain.

Purchase a Coaster Pass
Hellbender Mountain Coaster

Hellbender Stats

Track Length: The Hellbender winds through 3,350 feet overlooking the Smoky Mountains.

Top Speed: The Hellbender can reach speeds upwards of 25 mph

Twists and Turns: There are 7 turns totaling 240 feet of drop!

Speeds up to 25 MPH on Anakeestas mountain coaster

What to Bring

  • Dress for fun and comfort. Wear clothes you can move in and don’t mind getting a little wet—rain showers in the Smokies tend to pass quickly, and they can add a splash of excitement to your day!

  • Capture the moment—safely! Feel free to bring your cameras, GoPros, and phones, but be sure they’re secure with straps or stored in zippered pockets. Prefer to go hands-free? You’re welcome to leave valuables in our complimentary cubbies before your ride. (P.S. We kindly ask that you leave selfie sticks at home.)

  • Keep your shades on! Glasses and sunglasses are totally fine to wear. Just bring a strap if you plan on taking them off during your ride.

*We offer small cubbies to hold any valuables you may want to leave behind before taking off on your thrilling ride!

Purchase a Coaster Pass

HELLBENDER RIDER REQUIREMENTS

Single Rider

Minimum height requirement is 54 inches
  • Minimum Age: 7 years old
  • Maximum Weight: 375 lbs in dry weather | 330 lbs in wet weather
  • Minimum Height: 54″

Tandem Riders

Minimum height requirement is 38 inches

Passengers:

  • Minimum Age: 3 years old
  • Minimum Height: 38″ No taller than the driver’s shoulders
Combined weight of 375lbs dry, 300lbs wet

Drivers:

  • Minimum Age: 16 years old Proof of age required
  • Minimum Height: 54″
  • Combined Maximum Weight: 375 lbs in dry weather | 330 lbs in wet weather

Driver is fully responsible for passenger & must be able to control braking handles at all times. Both driver and rider assume all risks inherent in the hellbender coaster

Fun Facts

What makes a mountain coaster different from a roller coaster?

Mountain coasters are built into the natural terrain and rely on gravity rather than chain lifts. Riders sit in carts that coast downhill on a fixed track, using hand brakes to control their speed.

There are two coasters at Anakeesta?

Believe it! Check out Anakeesta’s Rail Runner, the only single rail mountain coaster in the United States!

Do I have to ride alone?

No! Riders can choose to ride single or tandem as long as the combined weight does not exceed 330 pounds.

Can I ride the Hellbender at night?

Yes! Night rides offer a totally different experience with cooler temps, mountain lights, and a one-of-a-kind view of the Smokies under the stars. The track is lit for night rides, and each cart is equipped with headlights, so you can enjoy the twists and turns safely after dark.

Is the Hellbender Mountain Coaster safe for kids?

Yes. Children as young as 3 can ride tandem with an adult. Riders must meet height and age requirements, and all carts are equipped with safety belts and manual brakes.

Is the mountain coaster accessible for guests with disabilities?

Please talk to the ride attendant at the entrances of either mountain coaster to discuss how to best accommodate your needs. Accessibility varies depending on mobility and the ability to control hand brakes.

Do I need a separate ticket for the Hellbender?

Yes. The Coaster Pass is an add-on to your general Anakeesta admission. Each Coaster Pass gives you the flexibility to ride both the Hellbender and Rail Runner coasters once, or ride your favorite one twice. Please note that individual ride tickets are not available; the Coaster Pass is the only way to ride.

Can I ride the Hellbender more than once?

Yes! The Coaster Pass lets you choose one ride on each coaster, or two rides on your favorite. Individual ride tickets are not available.

How long is the wait for the Hellbender?

Wait times vary depending on season and time of day. We recommend riding earlier in the morning or later in the evening for shorter lines.

Race to new adventures!
See Smoky Mountain Views!
Enjoy 240 feet of heart-pounding drops!

Anakeesta Hellbender

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865-325-2400
[email protected]

576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

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Anakeesta - There is Magic in the Mountains
  • Things To Do
    • Things To Do
    • United Tastes of America
    • Play
      • Play
      • Gondola
      • Anavista Tower
      • Treetop Skywalk
      • More…
    • Adventure Add-Ons
      • Adventure Add-Ons
      • Astra Lumina
      • Coaster Pass
      • United Tastes of America
    • Dine
      • Dine
      • Clifftop
      • Kephart Cafe
      • Smokehouse
      • United Tastes of America
      • More…
    • Shop
      • Shop
      • Shop Official Merch
      • Own a Chair
      • Adventure Outpost
      • Willow’s Workshop
      • The Mercantile
      • More…
    • relax & unwind
      • relax & unwind
      • Vista Gardens
      • Get Cozy – At Night
      • More…
  • Plan A Visit
    • Plan A Visit
    • Pricing
      • Pricing
      • Tickets and Passes
      • Own a Chair
      • Partner Packages
      • Group Rates
      • Private Events
    • Park Info
      • Park Info
      • Anakeesta’s Expansion
      • Hours and Directions
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