NOW OPEN!
An Elevated Journey to the Top of Anakeesta
Our newest gondola delivers a smoother, faster, and more scenic ride, designed to get you to the mountaintop in comfort while offering breathtaking Smoky Mountain views along the way.
Introducing the Crystal Express
A One-of-a-Kind Perspective of the Smokies
The Crystal Express offers a ride unlike anything else in the Smoky Mountains. Each panoramic cabin features glass floors and expansive windows that surround you with views in every direction, creating the feeling of floating above the ground.
As you glide above the forest and rise high above downtown Gatlinburg, the mountain unfolds beneath your feet and around the cabin. It is a rare opportunity to experience the Smokies from a completely new perspective, where the journey itself becomes as memorable as everything waiting at the top.
Elevated, In Every Way
The Crystal Express reimagines how you arrive at the mountaintop, delivering a smoother ride, shorter waits, and breathtaking Smoky Mountain views along the way.
56 Panoramic Cabins
Luxurious gondola cabins with glass floors and walls, offering uninterrupted 360° views of the Smoky Mountains.
~4 Minute Ride
A smooth, scenic ascent from downtown Gatlinburg to the mountaintop.
3x Current Capacity
Designed to move more guests efficiently, reducing wait times and getting you to the top faster.
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE CRYSTAL EXPRESS?
The Crystal Express is Anakeesta’s new high-speed gondola that takes guests from downtown Gatlinburg to the mountaintop. It is designed to offer a faster, smoother, and more scenic ride as part of Anakeesta’s next phase of growth.
WHERE DOES THE CRYSTAL EXPRESS DEPART FROM?
The Crystal Express departs from Anakeesta’s existing Parkway location in downtown Gatlinburg, making it a convenient starting point for your visit.
HOW LONG IS THE RIDE?
The ride to the summit takes approximately four minutes, giving guests a quick and scenic ascent up the mountain.
WHAT MAKES THE CRYSTAL EXPRESS DIFFERENT FROM THE PREVIOUS LIFT?
The Crystal Express features next-generation gondola technology, panoramic cabins with glass floors and walls, and three times the capacity of the current lift. This means a smoother ride, shorter waits, and a more immersive experience.
ARE THE CABINS ENCLOSED?
Yes, the Crystal Express cabins are fully enclosed and designed for comfort in all seasons.
IS THE CRYSTAL EXPRESS FAMILY-FRIENDLY?
Yes, the gondola is designed with easy on and off loading, allowing families to roll strollers directly into the cabins for a seamless experience.
WHEN WILL THE CRYSTAL EXPRESS OPEN?
The Crystal Express is NOW OPEN!
IS THE CRYSTAL EXPRESS INCLUDED WITH ADMISSION?
Yes, the Crystal Express is included with Anakeesta admission.
Stay Updated
Be the first to know about Anakeesta’s $100 million expansion. From new attraction reveals to behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, we’ll share every step of the journey as the magic unfolds.
