PIGEON FORGE, Va. – A popular theme park will be getting a brand new roller coaster soon.
On Friday, Dolly Parton announced new additions to Dollywood, including a massive coaster named Big Bear Mountain that is expected to be open in the spring of 2023.
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Parton said the coaster’s huge structure hugs six acres that runs beside Wildwood Grove, the park’s newest expansion.
At nearly 4,000 feet long, the release said the Big Bear Mountain coaster will be the longest coaster to ride in Dollywood.
The ride will take guests through the Smokies on a search for the “Big Bear,” soaring through and above the trees, with a top speed of 45 miles per hour, Parton said.
According to the release, the coaster will take guests through three separate launches, multiple airtime hills, high-speed turns and tunnels, including a pass behind a waterfall.
Not only that, but Parton said the Big Bear Mountain ride is the first one at Dollywood to feature on-board audio, which will give riders auditory thrills that will match the coaster’s movements.
And while seeing the ride’s big bear is thrilling, imagine seeing the legendary “Big Bear” and telling the tale.
“The Smokies are all about adventure and going exploring,” Dolly Parton 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 the legend, “Big Bear” is a huge black bear that roams through Wildwood Grove at the park, Patron said, and while no one has actually ever laid their eyes on him, there are signs around the area that are indicators of his presence.
Parton said the park anticipates the ride to be open in the spring of 2023, and even young adventures can join in on the fun – the minimum height requirement for the Big Bear Mountain coaster is 39″.
You can learn more about the Big Bear Mountain coaster here.