Anakeesta vs. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and home to some of the region’s most popular attractions. Two of the standout experiences in Gatlinburg are Anakeesta and Gatlinburg SkyPark. Both offer breathtaking views, unique experiences, and plenty of fun for visitors of all ages, but each has its own distinct charm and features. If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg and wondering which of these attractions to visit, here’s a comparison to help you decide which one is right for you.

Anakeesta: A Mountaintop Adventure Park

Anakeesta is a sprawling outdoor adventure park that sits atop a mountain, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Accessible by a scenic Chondola ride or Ridge Rambler, Anakeesta is designed to provide both relaxation and adventure in a beautifully landscaped environment.

Key Features:

• Vista Gardens: A beautiful botanical garden featuring walking paths, sculptures, and an observation tower that provides stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.
• Treetop Skywalk: A series of suspended bridges that take you on a treetop journey through the forest canopy, offering a unique perspective of the natural surroundings.
• Rail Runner Mountain Coaster: A thrilling single-rail mountain coaster that winds down the mountainside, offering twists, turns, and a rush of adrenaline.
• AnaVista Tower: The highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, this tower offers 360-degree views of the Smokies and beyond, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves scenic vistas.
• Firefly Village: An enchanting area with shops, dining options, and cozy spots to relax. The village is themed around the magic of fireflies and is especially beautiful when lit up at night.
• Zipline Adventure: For those seeking more excitement, Anakeesta offers a dual-racing zipline that lets you soar through the trees at high speeds.

Why You’ll Love Anakeesta:

• Family-Friendly Adventure: Anakeesta is perfect for families with children, offering a variety of activities that appeal to all ages. From the treetop walk to the mountain coaster, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• Nature and Relaxation: The Vista Gardens and Firefly Village provide serene spaces where you can unwind and take in the beauty of the mountains.
• Seasonal Events: Anakeesta hosts special events throughout the year, such as seasonal festivals, live music, and holiday-themed activities, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit.

Gatlinburg SkyPark: A Sky-High Experience

Gatlinburg SkyPark is best known for its iconic SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Located at the top of Crockett Mountain, this attraction offers a blend of thrilling heights and panoramic views, making it a must-visit for anyone who loves spectacular scenery.

Key Features:

• SkyBridge: The star attraction of Gatlinburg SkyPark, the SkyBridge stretches 680 feet across a deep valley, with a glass-floor section in the middle that provides a thrilling view straight down. It’s a unique experience that combines beauty and excitement.
• SkyLift: The SkyLift is a scenic chairlift that takes you from downtown Gatlinburg to the top of Crockett Mountain. The ride itself offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.
• SkyDeck: Once you reach the top, the SkyDeck offers an observation area with panoramic views of the Smokies. It’s the perfect spot to take in the scenery, snap photos, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
• SkyTrail: A relatively new addition, the SkyTrail is a scenic walking path that connects the SkyBridge to the rest of the park. It features observation platforms, rope bridges, and educational displays about the area’s natural history.
• Tulip Tower: A highlight of the SkyTrail, the Tulip Tower is a four-story steel structure with two rope bridges that offer additional views and a bit of adventure for visitors.

Why You’ll Love Gatlinburg SkyPark:

• Spectacular Views: If you’re a fan of awe-inspiring vistas, Gatlinburg SkyPark is a dream come true. The SkyBridge, SkyDeck, and SkyTrail offer some of the best views in the Smokies, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
• Thrill of Heights: The SkyBridge, with its glass-floor section, offers a thrilling experience that’s both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. It’s a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a bit of an adrenaline rush.
• Convenient Location: Located right in downtown Gatlinburg, the SkyPark is easily accessible and makes for a great addition to a day of exploring the town’s shops, restaurants, and other attractions.

Anakeesta vs. Gatlinburg SkyPark: Which Should You Choose?

For Adventure and Variety: If you’re looking for a full day of diverse activities, Anakeesta is the way to go. With its blend of adventure rides, nature trails, and relaxing spots, it offers something for everyone in the family. It’s a great choice if you want a mix of excitement and tranquility in a single location.

For Unmatched Views and Thrills: If your main goal is to experience the best views of the Smokies and enjoy a heart-pounding walk across a suspension bridge, Gatlinburg SkyPark is the clear winner. It’s perfect for those who love heights, breathtaking scenery, and unique photo opportunities.

For Families with Young Children: Anakeesta is likely the better option for families with younger kids, thanks to its variety of attractions that cater to all ages. The Treetop Skywalk, Vista Gardens, and Firefly Village are all child-friendly and offer plenty of entertainment.

For a Quick, Scenic Experience: If you’re short on time or want to combine your visit with other downtown Gatlinburg activities, Gatlinburg SkyPark is ideal. The SkyLift, SkyBridge, and SkyDeck can all be enjoyed in a few hours, leaving you time to explore the rest of the town.

Both Anakeesta and Gatlinburg SkyPark offer unforgettable experiences in the Smoky Mountains, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you choose the diverse adventures of Anakeesta or the sky-high thrills of Gatlinburg SkyPark, you’re sure to create lasting memories during your visit. For the ultimate Gatlinburg experience, consider visiting both attractions—they each offer a different perspective of the breathtaking Smokies and are sure to leave you in awe.