"Things Are About to Get Big" Thanks to Longest Coaster in Dollywood History

• Wes Ramey

Days like today are so much fun! Hopefully, you've seen it already, but if not, I'll be more than happy to share the "BIG" news. Dolly visited us today to help announce the newest addition to Dollywood Parks & Resorts, Big Bear Mountain! Big Bear Mountain is nearly 4,000 ft. long and takes guests on an unforgettable expedition through the Smokies in search of the elusive "Big Bear." The ride, which at 3,990 ft. becomes the longest roller coaster in the park, marks the expansion of Wildwood Grove.


If you like coasters, you're going to love our newest addition. No doubt about it, Big Bear Mountain is big! Its massive structure hugs six acres of undulating topography which runs along the border of Wildwood Grove from the newly constructed area just beyond Hidden Hollow and The Dragonflier. The ride begins by launching guests out of the station and on their way on an unforgettable trip to find Big Bear. Riders will experience a top speed of 48 mph, three separate launches, multiple airtime hills, high-speed carousel turns, and tunnels, including a pass behind a waterfall.


In addition to becoming the longest roller coaster at Dollywood, Big Bear Mountain also marks the first attraction we have to feature on-board audio. The sound system provides auditory thrills to match the ride's dynamic movements as you come daringly close to Big Bear. The minimum height requirement for Big Bear Mountain is 39", so even younger adventurers can come along for the ride. "The Smokies are all about adventure and going exploring," Dolly said. "I'm excited our guests will be able to head out on their own trip into the Smokies to see if they can find that Big Bear! Whether he's out there or not, I'm sure they'll find a lot of memories along the way that they'll keep forever." According to legend, Big Bear is a massive male black bear who has been roaming through Wildwood Grove for as long as anyone can remember. While no one has ever seen him, telltale signs regularly appear in the hills surrounding the Grove. For more of the backstory, read this blog. We want you to join Wildwood Grove's resident wilderness explorer and botanist, Ned Oakley, on the adventure to find Big Bear. From his base camp-located just a stone's throw from the Grove's Hidden Hollow-Ned takes adventurers on the rides of their lives in his specially-outfitted, "four-wheel drive SUVs." With an anticipated opening date in the spring of 2023, daring adventurers will not have to wait long to join Ned Oakley on his search for Big Bear on Big Bear Mountain. If you're ready to join in the excitement, you can pre-register for a 2023 Dollywood season pass by visiting Dollywood.com/2023SP from Aug. 5- Sept. 30. Those who register during this time receive the guaranteed lowest price on passes, as well as access to an exclusive ride event for Big Bear Mountain in spring of 2023. Pre-registrants are able to purchase 2023 season passes beginning Oct. 17.


Like I said, "things are about to get big!" We're really excited about the addition of Big Bear Mountain and hope to see you in 2023 to help Ned on his quest to find Big Bear. For more information about Big Bear Mountain, please visit dollywood.com/bigbearmountain.