Dollywood are preparing themselves for their biggest season to date. 

As part of the plans finalizing, local media were invited to tour the construction sites of the Big Bear Mountain roller coaster and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort during the annual media construction tour. 

Both sites represent the first two major projects in the £415m expansion plans announced by Dolly Parton and Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton in June 2021.

“Over the last several years, Dollywood Parks & Resorts has elevated into the upper tier of theme park destinations in the country,” Naughton explained. 

“Just last season, we were named the #1 theme park in the United States by Tripadvisor based on actual reviews of guests who enjoyed time at our properties. With this increased attention comes even more guests whom we find are more frequently considering alternative destinations outside of the traditional family vacation spots that have been popular for several years.

“We offer a truly different experience at Dollywood. When you combine what we offer here along with the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park – the most visited national park in the country, by the way – we’re poised for record growth over the next several years. Big Bear Mountain and HeartSong Lodge & Resort allow us to take care of our guests in a way only we can.”

Big Bear Mountain adds to Dollywood’s world-class roller coasters. At £21m pounds, the ride is the most significant single attraction investment ever at Dollywood. With a distance of 3,990ft. Its length makes it the longest roller coaster at the park. 

“Big Bear Mountain is a game changer for us,” Naughton said. “First, it’s the longest attraction that we’ve ever built. Next, it features on-board audio that brings the terrific theming to life. Additionally, its height requirement means we’ll be able to bring even the youngest adventurers along for all the fun. That’s what is important to us; every family member can enjoy a thrilling ride together, and for many younger riders, it will be their first big roller coaster. 

“It’s an important milestone for so many kids, and we’re proud they’ll be able to say it happened at Dollywood.”

Image: Dollywood