Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a mountainous theme park located in Gatlinburg, sitting on 70 acres of forested land atop Anakeesta Mountain.
Anakeesta is the Cherokee Indian word for high ground, or more literally, 'the place of the balsams (firs)'. Today the word is more commonly associated with the massive rock layer on the Smoky Mountains.
Here at the park Anakeesta, you will ride a Chondola up to the summit of the mountain, the summit holding Firefly Village, a fun spot giving panoramic views of Mt. LeConte and access to several shops and dining experiences. Kids will enjoy spending time in the Treehouse Village Playground, a great way to let them be active among nature!
Spend some time on 16 Bridge Tree Canopy Walk while you are here, a series of bridges about 40-60 feet above the ground that provide thrilling views of the surrounding mountain tops. Afterward, check out the Memorial Forest Walk and learn about the local impacts of the November 2016 fire, or perhaps take in local flora and fauna on the Vista Gardens botanical walk. You will also have the choice of buying tickets for the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, Duelling Zipline Adventure, or Gem Mining Experience.
When you work up an appetite head to the Anakeesta Smokehouse BBQ, Cliff Top Grill and Bar, or Pearl's Pie in the Sky.
