- Big Bear Mountain is the longest roller coaster at Dollywood, stretching across 3,990 feet of track in Wildwood Grove.
- With a family-friendly minimum height requirement of 39 inches, riders of multiple generations can enjoy top speeds of 48 mph together.
- The attraction is the first coaster at Dollywood to feature on-board audio, three separate launches, and a high-speed pass behind a scenic waterfall.
- Staying along the Little Pigeon River in Pigeon Forge places your family just minutes from park gates, complimentary breakfast, and evening riverfront relaxation.
The Big Bear Mountain roller coaster at Dollywood is the ultimate family thrill attraction in the Great Smoky Mountains. Anchoring the vibrant Wildwood Grove section of the park, this sprawling multi-launch coaster offers guests an unforgettable expedition through the foothills of Tennessee. Whether you are traveling with coaster beginners or seasoned thrill-seekers, the combination of accessible height minimums, immersive storytelling, and gentle airtime hills makes this a must-ride attraction on your Pigeon Forge itinerary.
The Story Behind the Big Bear Mountain Roller Coaster
The story behind Big Bear Mountain centers on an expedition led by Ned Oakley, the fictional wilderness patrol explorer of Wildwood Grove. Before you board, your journey begins inside the Adventure Outpost Base Camp queue line, where you can inspect Ned's field equipment, trail maps, and footprint casts searching for the legendary creature known as Big Bear.
To prepare prospective explorers for the trek into the wilderness, Ned's outpost immerses riders in interactive expedition lore:
- Adventure Outpost Gear: Field research stations, vintage radios, and bulletin boards display documented sightings across the grove.
- SUV Expedition Vehicles: Custom coaster trains resemble rugged four-wheel-drive safari vehicles equipped with simulated trail equipment.
- Narration Along the Track: Explorers hear live radio updates from Ned Oakley over high-fidelity speakers built directly into every coaster seat.
Who Can Ride the Big Bear Mountain Roller Coaster?
Kids who meet the approachable 39-inch minimum height requirement can ride the Big Bear Mountain coaster at Dollywood, so the whole family can get in on the fun! Designed intentionally as an accessible multi-generational attraction, parents and grandparents can share thrilling coaster memories alongside young children who are graduating to their very first large-scale roller coaster.
Before planning your group's visit to Wildwood Grove, keep these essential accessibility guidelines in mind:
- Rider Height Measuring: Children between 39 and 48 inches tall must be accompanied by a supervising companion aged 14 or older.
- Restraint Design: Individual padded lap bars accommodate guests of various body types comfortably without restrictive shoulder collars.
- TimeSaver Pass Access: The attraction supports Dollywood TimeSaver passes, allowing families to minimize standby waits during peak summer and fall festival crowds.
- Loose Articles Policy: Convenient storage bins are available inside the boarding station for backpacks, hats, and park souvenirs.
What Makes the Big Bear Mountain Roller Coaster Unique?
The most unique aspect of Big Bear Mountain is its custom on-board audio system, an innovative first for any roller coaster at Dollywood. As your vehicle navigates bank turns and low-to-the-ground curves, an upbeat musical score paired with Ned's voice over the radio guides your exploration in real time.
When Did Big Bear Mountain Open?
Big Bear Mountain officially opened to theme park guests on May 12, 2023, marking the single largest capital investment in Dollywood history. The landmark $25 million expansion doubled the footprint of Wildwood Grove and was personally dedicated by entertainment icon Dolly Parton, who wrote and performed a custom song to celebrate the coaster's inaugural run.
To make the most of your ride experience on your upcoming visit, consider these helpful local tips:
- Ride Early or Late: Head straight to Wildwood Grove immediately at park rope-drop, or visit during final evening hours when ride lines thin out and track lighting illuminates the trees.
- Refuel Nearby: After your forest adventure, sample classic park treats or sit down for hearty southern cuisine at popular Dollywood restaurants located nearby in the grove and Jukebox Junction.
- Check Wait Times: Use the official Dollywood mobile app throughout your day for live queue estimates and scheduled ride maintenance updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Big Bear Mountain roller coaster at Dollywood?
Big Bear Mountain stretches 3,990 feet, making it the longest roller coaster at Dollywood. The ride lasts approximately 100 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 48 mph.
What is the height requirement for Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood?
Riders must be at least 39 inches tall to ride Big Bear Mountain. Children between 39 and 48 inches tall must be accompanied by a supervising companion who is at least 16 years old.
Is Big Bear Mountain a family-friendly roller coaster?
Yes! Big Bear Mountain is designed for multiple generations, allowing parents, grandparents, and children who meet the height requirement to ride together. Its accessible height minimum and comfortable lap-bar restraints make it a great introduction to larger roller coasters.
What makes Big Bear Mountain different from other Dollywood roller coasters?
Big Bear Mountain is the first Dollywood coaster to feature on-board audio and three separate launch zones. Riders also experience narration from fictional wilderness explorer Ned Oakley and a high-speed pass behind a scenic waterfall.
When did Big Bear Mountain open at Dollywood?
Big Bear Mountain officially opened on May 12, 2023. The $25 million attraction marked the largest capital investment in Dollywood history.
What is the best time to ride Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood?
The best times to ride Big Bear Mountain are immediately after park rope-drop or during the final evening hours when wait times tend to thin out. Guests can also use the official Dollywood mobile app to check live wait times and scheduled maintenance updates.
Stay Minutes from Dollywood at Our Pigeon Forge Hotel
After an action-packed day hunting for legendary thrills in Wildwood Grove, retreat to comfortable riverside lodging along the Parkway just minutes from Dollywood, where you can unwind by heated pools, enjoy evening popcorn by the fireplace, and so much more. Book your stay at our Pigeon Forge hotel right here to set yourself up for awesome Dollywood adventures!
