TSM Quick Take
Worth it for you?
The Goat Coaster at Goats on the Roof is a compact, family-friendly stop offering a hands-on alpine coaster ride where you control your speed, a chance to feed real goats on the rooftop using a pedal-powered conveyor, and classic Smokies gem mining. It's a good fit for families with kids or teens, couples looking for a quick thrill, or anyone wanting a unique, low-commitment roadside attraction with snacks and souvenirs.
The main limitation is that it's a single-coaster venue with a few add-ons, so those seeking a full-day theme park or a wide range of rides may find it underwhelming, especially during peak times when lines can form. Pricing is mid-range for the area, but everything is pay-per-activity, so costs can add up for larger groups.
Quick decision
Should You Go?
Worth it for families?
yes – The mix of the alpine coaster, rooftop goats, and gem mining makes it engaging for kids and easy for parents to supervise.
Worth it for adults only?
maybe – It's a fun, quick thrill and a quirky stop, but adults without kids may find it brief unless pairing with other area attractions.
Worth it on a rainy day?
yes – The coaster runs rain or shine except for thunder or severe weather, so it's a reliable option in most weather.
Best time of day?
Late afternoon or early evening for lighter crowds and the option to ride the coaster at night with track lighting.
How long does it take?
Plan for 45–90 minutes for a typical visit; up to 2 hours if you do gem mining and multiple rides.
Biggest downside?
It's a small attraction centered on one main ride, so it may feel limited if you're expecting a full theme park experience.
Combo pass worth it?
Should you stay nearby?
no – Most visitors drive; walkable hotels are not highlighted and Wears Valley Road is not especially pedestrian-friendly.
Tickets
Ticket Strategy
Single-ride tickets are the standard, with separate charges for each activity; confirm current pricing on the official site before you go.
Single ticket
Adult tickets are typically in the mid-teens per ride, with a lower rate for kids; this makes sense for a quick stop or if you only want to ride once.
Combo pass
Add-ons
Gem mining and goat chow are the main extras; both are pay-as-you-go and can add value if your group enjoys hands-on activities or animal encounters.
Prices can change and may not be posted online—always check the official site or call ahead for the latest rates.
Duration
7 minutes per descent
Price
$15/adult + tax, $12/child + tax
Best For
Families with kids • Thrill-seekers • Animal lovers
Pro tip: Visit early or on weekdays to avoid lines, as it's rarely crowded compared to other coasters.
About The Goat Coaster at Goats on the Roof
We stumbled on this place driving out to Wears Valley and honestly, the goats on the actual roof sold us immediately. The Goat Coaster is nearly a mile long — 4,875 feet winding down the mountain at whatever speed you want, up to 27 mph if you're feeling it. You control your own brakes, which is perfect when you've got a nervous kid riding with you. The whole goat thing isn't just a gimmick. They literally live on the roof and you buy feed downstairs, then use this pulley system called a 'goat-cycle' to send treats up to them. Our kids spent more time feeding goats than riding the coaster. You can watch from the air-conditioned gift shop window for free if you don't want to buy feed, but honestly, the goats expect it at this point. At $15 for adults and $12 for kids, it's the cheapest mountain coaster in Pigeon Forge — no coupon needed. We've done all the others and this one's got the shortest lines too, probably because it's off the main strip. They added dinosaur mini golf this year which the kids loved, plus there's gem mining if you want to make a whole afternoon of it. One heads up — summer prices go up and the gift shop's pretty pricey for souvenirs. But the coaster itself and watching those goats is worth the drive out Wears Valley Road. Just call ahead to confirm hours since they're seasonal.
Amenities & Features
- Exceptionally fast speeds compared to other Smoky Mountain coasters—perfect for thrill-seekers
- Staff goes above and beyond, especially with special needs visitors and large youth groups
- Less crowded than other Pigeon Forge attractions, with lines that move quickly
- Bonus attraction of feeding goats after your ride
Insider Tips for The Goat Coaster at Goats on the Roof
Insider tips
Visitors most often point to Goat Coaster, Goat Feeding, and Jurassic Tymes Mini Golf. Call ahead to confirm hours as they can change seasonally.
Expect higher prices during peak summer weekends. The gift shop can be pricey for souvenirs.
Before you go
Plan around 7 minutes per descent unless you are only stopping in briefly. Current price guidance on this page is $15/adult + tax, $12/child + tax.
A website is linked here for direct confirmation of current details. Compare ticket links before you go, especially for weekends and peak travel periods.
From the reviews
Visitors frequently mention the unique experience of feeding goats from the goat-cycle.
Reviewers consistently praise the affordability of the coaster compared to other attractions in Pigeon Forge.
A common observation is that the goat-themed activities keep kids entertained for hours.
Highlights
Don't Miss
ride
Goat Coaster
A nearly 1-mile long alpine coaster with rider-controlled brakes for a personalized experience.
experience
Goat Feeding
Feed live goats on the roof using a fun goat-cycle lever system.
activity
Jurassic Tymes Mini Golf
A newly added dinosaur-themed 36-hole outdoor mini golf course that kids love.
activity
Gem Mining
An engaging activity where visitors can search for rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
food
Gift Shop
Offers a variety of souvenirs, though prices can be on the higher side.
Upgrades & extras
Add-ons: Worth It or Skip It
Gem mining
WORTH ITA classic Smokies sluice mining setup where kids can sift for gemstones; it's a hands-on activity that adds variety to your visit.
Goat chow for rooftop goat feeding
WORTH ITBuying goat chow lets you use the pedal-powered conveyor to feed the rooftop goats, which is a unique and memorable experience for kids.
Homemade ice cream and fudge
CHECK OFFICIALThe on-site shop offers homemade ice cream and fudge; worth a stop if you want a snack or souvenir, but not a must-do if you're short on time.
Plan the arrival
Parking Strategy
Best option
On-site surface lot at Goats on the Roof (1341 Wears Valley Road, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863).
Walkable from a hotel
Most visitors drive; walkable hotel options are not highlighted and sidewalks are limited.
Worst arrival times
Peak summer Saturdays and holiday weekends.
Free or limited option
On-site parking is available and included for visitors.
Family tip
Parking is adjacent to the entrance, making it easy for families with strollers or older relatives.
Know Before You Go
- Call ahead to confirm hours as they can change seasonally.
- Expect higher prices during peak summer weekends.
- The gift shop can be pricey for souvenirs.
- Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more enjoyable experience.
- Bring cash for the gift shop as some vendors may not accept cards.
What Visitors Say
Featured from 6,420 reviewsVisitors frequently mention the unique experience of feeding goats from the goat-cycle.
Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Goat Coaster at Goats on the Roof
Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours?
Seasonal, typically store opens at 8:00 AM, coaster at 9:00 AM, 7 days a week; call 865-366-7337 to confirm.
What is the price?
Daily special: $15/adult + tax, $12/child (3-12) + tax; lowest in town, no coupon needed; summer prices higher.
Is it safe?
Yes, safety equipment and precautions are in place.
Can kids ride?
Yes, fun for all ages including children to grandparents; brakes allow speed control.
How long/fast is the track?
4,875 feet, up to 27 mph, with a 7-minute ride duration.
How to feed goats?
Buy chow in the gift shop, use goat-cycle lever to send it to the roof; viewing from indoor windows is free.
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