Duration
4-6 hours (full day if including evening Astra Lumina)
Price
All-day admission varies by season, plus extra costs for coasters and ziplines
Best For
Families with kids 6 and up • Adventure seekers wanting mountain thrills • Couples looking for scenic mountain views
Pro Tip
Skip the small initial Treehouse area and head straight to the bigger TreeVenture challenge course to save your energy. Also, enter the birdhouses in BirdVenture – they have hidden cool features most people miss.
About Anakeesta
Anakeesta consistently ranks among Gatlinburg's top mountaintop adventures, drawing visitors to its 70-acre park perched high above the city. The Chondola ride to reach the attraction offers half the experience – guests ascend 600 feet above downtown while taking in sweeping Smoky Mountain vistas.
The Treetop Skywalk serves as the park's signature attraction. This 880-foot network of hanging bridges suspends visitors 50+ feet above the forest floor, creating an exhilarating experience that proves popular with families and thrill-seekers alike.
AnaVista Tower provides Gatlinburg's highest public viewpoint, featuring 360-degree mountain panoramas. Visitors should note that high winds can force tower closures, making weather checks advisable before arrival.
Additional attractions like the TreeVenture challenge course and mountain coasters (Hellbender and Rail Runner) require separate admission fees beyond the base ticket, though these upcharges deliver worthwhile thrills for adventure enthusiasts.
After dark, Astra Lumina transforms the forest into an illuminated wonderland. This enchanting light show represents the first installation of its kind in the United States, creating a magical nighttime experience that complements the daytime attractions.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Treetop Skywalk
This 880-foot hanging bridge system takes you 50+ feet above the forest floor. It's North America's longest tree-based skywalk and honestly gets your adrenaline pumping even if you're not afraid of heights.
AnaVista Tower
The highest viewpoint in Gatlinburg with 360-degree mountain views. On clear days, you can see for miles across the Smokies. Just know that high winds shut it down frequently.
Hellbender Mountain Coaster
This mountain coaster winds through the trees with you controlling the speed. Our teenagers love racing each other down the track. It's an upcharge but worth every penny.
TreeVenture Challenge Course
Multi-level obstacle course through the treetops with rope bridges, climbing walls, and zip elements. Even adults have a blast working through the challenges while taking in mountain views.
Astra Lumina
This nighttime enchanted forest walk transforms the woods with lights, music, and projections. It's the first experience of its kind in the U.S. and absolutely magical for all ages.
Chondola Ride
The scenic chairlift ride up to the park is an experience itself. You're rising 600 feet above downtown Gatlinburg with incredible views of the mountains and city below.
Know Before You Go
- Park downtown and take the Chondola up – no mountain parking available
- Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes for walking bridges and climbing
- Bring layers for changing mountain temperatures and check wind conditions
- Budget extra for popular add-ons like mountain coasters and ziplines
- Most attractions are outdoors, so weather can impact your experience
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsAnakeesta receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Anakeesta Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Anakeesta
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Anakeesta?
Anakeesta operates daily with seasonal hour variations. They're open for both day and night experiences, including the evening Astra Lumina light show. Check their website for current seasonal hours as they change throughout the year.
How much does Anakeesta cost?
All-day park admission includes unlimited Chondola rides, Treetop Skywalk, AnaVista Tower, TreeVenture, play areas, and gardens. Mountain coasters, ziplines, and some experiences cost extra. Check anakeesta.com for current 2025 pricing.
Do I need reservations for Anakeesta?
Reservations aren't required but are recommended during peak seasons and weekends to guarantee entry. You can buy tickets online in advance or at the gate, but busy times may sell out.
How long should I spend at Anakeesta?
Plan a full day if you want to experience everything. Most families spend 4-6 hours exploring all the attractions, dining, and taking in the views. Add extra time if you're doing the evening Astra Lumina experience.
Is Anakeesta good for kids?
Yes, it's very family-friendly for kids 6 and up. The TreeVenture challenge course, BirdVenture play area, and Treehouse Village are designed for children. Younger kids might find some attractions challenging, but there's plenty for them to enjoy.
Is there parking at Anakeesta?
Parking is available downtown Gatlinburg near the Chondola base station at 576 Parkway. There's no parking on the mountain itself – everyone takes the scenic Chondola chairlift or Ridge Rambler truck to reach the park.
Do attractions close due to weather?
Yes, high winds can close key attractions like AnaVista Tower and some outdoor experiences. Mountain weather changes quickly, so check conditions before your visit and dress in layers.
What's included vs. extra cost at Anakeesta?
Your admission includes the Chondola, Treetop Skywalk, AnaVista Tower, TreeVenture, play areas, and gardens. Mountain coasters (Hellbender and Rail Runner), ziplines, and Astra Lumina cost extra but are worth budgeting for.
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More great places in Gatlinburg
We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
Anakeesta receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
576 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
576 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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