TSM Quick Take
Worth it for you?
Smoky Mountain Ziplines is a strong pick for families with teens, friend groups, and adults looking for a guided outdoor adventure close to Pigeon Forge. The 7-line canopy tour features high-speed runs, a 30-foot controlled descent, and a ride up the mountain in military trucks, all with scenic views and guides known for humor and safety. The experience is social, active, and offers a sense of seclusion just minutes from the Parkway.
The main drawback is price uncertainty—current ticket rates aren't published and ziplines are typically a mid-to-upper tier spend for the area. It's not a fit for families with very young kids, those with a strong fear of heights, or anyone seeking an indoor or rainy-day backup. Always confirm age/weight limits and weather policies before booking.
Quick decision
Should You Go?
Worth it for families?
maybe — great for families with teens or adventurous older kids, but not suitable for very young children due to likely age/weight restrictions.
Worth it for adults only?
yes — the guided, social format and adrenaline elements make it a fun group or couples activity.
Worth it on a rainy day?
no — it's fully outdoors and may pause for weather; check policies before booking.
Best time of day?
First hour of opening (around 9:00 AM) for cooler temps and lighter crowds.
How long does it take?
About 2–2.5 hours including check-in and gear up.
Biggest downside?
Unclear ticket pricing and age/weight restrictions; not suitable for young kids or those with a fear of heights.
Combo pass worth it?
Should you stay nearby?
no — it's a short drive from most Pigeon Forge hotels, but not walkable from the Parkway.
Tickets
Ticket Strategy
Ticket prices are not published for 2026; always check the official site or call for the latest rates before booking.
Single ticket
Adult single tickets are typically in the mid-to-upper price range for Pigeon Forge attractions; best for those focused on the zipline experience. Confirm current pricing on the official site or by phone.
Combo pass
Add-ons
No named add-ons are listed in current research; focus on the main 7-line tour.
Prices and specials change — always confirm on the official Smoky Mountain Ziplines site or by phone before buying.
Duration
2-2.5 hours (including check-in, gear fitting, truck ride, and all 7 ziplines)
Price
Around $100 per person (look for online discounts)
Best For
First-time zipliners looking for a guided experience • Families with kids 8 and older • Groups wanting a mix of thrills and laughs
Website
smokymountainziplines.comPro tip: Book the first tour of the day (usually 9 AM) - you'll get cooler temperatures, better visibility, and the guides are fresh and energetic.
About Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Smoky Mountain Ziplines ranks among the top adventure attractions in Pigeon Forge, offering a guided 7-line canopy tour that covers 4,200 feet of cable with speeds reaching 25 mph and heights exceeding 150 feet.
The experience begins with an exciting ride up the mountain in an authentic military truck, which kids especially enjoy. Two certified guides handle all connections and safety checks throughout the tour, allowing participants to focus entirely on the views.
Each tour lasts approximately 2 hours and features seven different ziplines, plus one 30-foot controlled descent that provides an extra adrenaline rush. The longest line stretches nearly 800 feet through the forest canopy, offering perspectives of the Smoky Mountains.
Visitors should note that the military truck ride can be quite bumpy. Guests with back issues may find the jostling uncomfortable, so this factor should be considered when making reservations.
At around $100 per person, the experience costs more than some area activities, but the knowledgeable guides justify the premium price. They bring genuine humor to the tour and excel at putting nervous first-timers at ease.
Reservations are required for all tours. The operation typically runs March through October with limited weekend availability during winter months. Morning tours offer the advantage of cooler temperatures and smaller crowds compared to afternoon sessions.
Amenities & Features
- Guides Mike and Robbie are repeatedly praised for being funny, professional, and exceptionally skilled at making nervous first-timers feel comfortable and safe
- Perfect for first-time zipliners, with staff excelling at putting anxious guests at ease while maintaining top-notch safety standards
- Spectacular mountain views and fall foliage create a stunning scenic experience alongside the thrill
- Flexible, accommodating staff who go above and beyond (like rescheduling missed reservations without hassle)
Video
Watch Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Insider Tips for Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Military Truck Mountain Ride, Seven-Line Canopy Course, and 30-Foot Controlled Descent. Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and gear fitting at their base camp on Mill Creek Road.
Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes - no sandals, flip-flops, or loose jewelry allowed. Reservations required - they don't accept walk-ins and tours fill up during peak season.
Before you go
Plan around 2-2.5 hours (including check-in, gear fitting, truck ride, and all 7 ziplines) unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is Around $100 per person (look for online discounts).
Public hours currently show Sunday as closed; verify hours before making a longer drive. A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details.
Compare ticket links before you go, especially for weekends and peak travel periods.
Highlights
Don't Miss
experience
Military Truck Mountain Ride
The adventure starts with a bumpy, exciting ride up the mountain in a real M35A3 military truck. Kids absolutely love this part, though folks with back issues should brace themselves for some serious jostling.
experience
Seven-Line Canopy Course
You'll zip through 4,200 feet of cable across seven different lines, with the longest stretching nearly 800 feet. Heights reach over 150 feet with speeds hitting 25 mph through the tree canopy.
experience
30-Foot Controlled Descent
One line includes a controlled descent using a Deus automatic belay device. It's like rappelling but easier - just step off the platform and the device controls your speed down.
experience
Professional Guide Team
Two certified guides accompany every group, handling all connections and safety checks. They're genuinely funny, great with nervous first-timers, and know exactly how to keep everyone comfortable.
view
Mountain Views and Canopy Experience
The course winds through the forest canopy with gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. Morning tours especially get crystal clear visibility before afternoon haze sets in.
experience
Base Camp Amenities
Their base camp includes free parking, restrooms, and complimentary soft drinks and water. It's a nice touch that you don't have to worry about bringing beverages on the lines.
Plan the arrival
Parking Strategy
Best option
Use public Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge downtown parking — confirm the closest garage on the official site
Walkable from a hotel
Not walkable from Parkway hotels; plan to drive or use a rideshare.
Worst arrival times
peak summer Saturdays and holiday weekends
Family tip
On-site parking is adjacent to the base camp, making drop-off and pick-up easy for families with kids or grandparents.
Know Before You Go
- Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and gear fitting at their base camp on Mill Creek Road
- Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes - no sandals, flip-flops, or loose jewelry allowed
- Reservations required - they don't accept walk-ins and tours fill up during peak season
- Mountain weather can be 10-15 degrees cooler than the Parkway, so bring layers
- Weight limits apply (60-275 pounds historically) - confirm current requirements when booking
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Smoky Mountain Ziplines?
They typically operate Tuesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 6 PM, March through October. Winter hours are weekends only, and they're usually closed Sundays and Mondays. Always call ahead since weather can affect schedules.
How much does Smoky Mountain Ziplines cost?
Tours run about $99.95 per person plus tax. Look for online booking discounts or coupon deals that can knock off $10-15 per person.
Do I need reservations for Smoky Mountain Ziplines?
Yes, reservations are absolutely required. They don't take walk-ins, so book ahead especially during peak season when tours fill up quickly.
How long should I spend at Smoky Mountain Ziplines?
Plan on 2 to 2.5 hours total from check-in to finish. The actual zipline tour takes about 2 hours, but add time for gear fitting and the truck ride up the mountain.
Is Smoky Mountain Ziplines good for kids?
Kids 8 and older usually love it, with weight requirements between 60-275 pounds. The guides are fantastic with nervous first-timers, and it's designed to be family-friendly while still thrilling.
Is there parking at Smoky Mountain Ziplines?
Yes, free parking is available right at their base camp on Mill Creek Road. You'll park there and they transport you up the mountain in their military truck.
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