As someone who grew up in the Smoky Mountains, I’ve explored just about every attraction in town and eaten at roughly 90% of the local restaurants.
Needless to say, I consider myself a bit of a Smokies expert. I’ve experienced some great attractions and great dining. And I’ve also had a few not-so-great experiences.
I’ve seen many attractions and restaurants come and go over the years.
But recently, I had the opportunity to explore a brand new Sevierville attraction: SkyLand Ranch. And I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by what I saw. Y’all, I think this one is here to stay.
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What is SkyLand Ranch?
SkyLand Ranch is a mountaintop entertainment venue accessible by a scenic chairlift (or a safari truck for the chairlift averse).
Overall, this attraction is most comparable to Gatlinburg’s Anakeesta attraction albeit smaller, more easily accessible and less crowded.
As a bonus, SkyLand Ranch also has ample parking and an entirely different theme – life on the ranch.
It offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the Parkway with a nod to simpler times but rife with modern conveniences – like food trucks.
Read Also: Is Anakeesta Worth It? A Personal Review With Discounts [2023]
Who owns SkyLand Ranch in Sevierville TN?
It’s the latest brainchild of Mark and Lisa Williford, who also own the successful Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark in Pigeon Forge.
The Snowpark offers summer or snow tubing, axe throwing and rides.
Rowdy Bear also used to have a location in Gatlinburg, which is now Ripley’s Mountain Coaster.
What is there to do at SkyLand Ranch?
With general admission to SkyLand Ranch, visitors can enjoy:
1. The Horizon SkyRide
The Horizon SkyRide is a chairlift.
While free parking is available at the base of the mountain, the main attraction is located at the very top of the mountain and is only accessible by either chairlift or the safari truck.
It takes approximately 9-10 minutes for SkyLand’s chairlift to make it to the top from the bottom and vice versa.
2. Miniature animal petting areas
Once atop the mountain, guests are invited to meet SkyLand’s many miniature four-legged friends.
Animal encounters include miniature horses, miniature donkeys, miniature cows, goats, sheep and a miniature bull named Diesel (my personal favorite).
Interacting with the miniature farm animals turned out to be one of our favorite things at this attraction.
Read Also: 12 Best Horseback Riding, Animal Attractions in the Smoky Mountains
3. The Backyard
The Backyard is a chill outdoor event space to hang out, kick back in a rocking chair, and explore SkyLand’s food truck offerings and other eateries while you watch a bit of live entertainment.
4. Live entertainment
Speaking of live entertainment, SkyLand Ranch’s daily entertainment lineup features a series of rotating talents that include Wild West magic shows, banjo music and appearances from mascots and other special guests.
Around the holidays, Santa and Mrs. Claus have even been known to make an appearance.
The attraction also features presentations with the animals and appearances from the park’s mascots.
5. Access to retail shops
Guests can also shop at Wiliford Mercantile – also known as the retail barn. But be warned, while window shopping is free with admission, you may be tempted to pull your wallet out for this one.
The boutique souvenir shop features a toy store, western wear, hats, bags and a variety of souvenirs.
6. Access to dining
Guests may also choose to buy a snack or grab a sandwich at the SkyLand Cafe & Bakery in the food barn.
The gourmet bakery features a sandwich shop with soups, salads, ice cream and milkshakes, a homemade candy shop with a variety of treats, a coffee shop and a bakery where you can make your own custom candy bar.
There’s also a variety of food trucks available.
7. Legacy Lookout
As a new feature, guests can now enjoy Legacy Lookout.
Legacy Lookout features an elevated scenic walkway with 360-degree gorgeous views of the Smoky Mountains and the Parkway 350 feet down below.
Guests are able to learn more about the area and the historic farm that the attraction is built on.
Sold separately, guests can also enjoy:
8. The Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster
The Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster is the longest mountain coaster in the Southeast. It features a 1.25-mile ride that lasts around 8-9 minutes. Riders control their own speed.
However, this particular attraction is not included with general admission.
If you wish to ride the Wild Stallion you can either bundle your SkyLand Ranch tickets with the mountain coaster (pricing may vary) or purchase a coaster ticket separately ($18.99 for adults ages 10 and up or $9.99 per child, at the time of this writing).
Children must be at least 3 years old and 38″ tall to ride. If the child is less than 54″ tall, they must be accompanied by an adult. The coaster is subject to a weight limit, which during my last visit was 375 pounds.
Pro-Tip: On this visit, my wristband (issued upon park entrance) had a hidden $2 off mountain coaster coupon on the underside for a return trip to the park.
So don’t be too quick to toss those wristbands after you leave.
How much does it cost to go to SkyLand Ranch?
At the time of this writing, ticket prices for this attraction are marked as special discounted pricing:
- General Admission Adult (10 & up): $21.99
- General Admission Child (3-9): $12.99
- Mountain Coaster Adult (10 & up): $18.99
- Mountain Coaster Child (3-9): $9.99
- General Admission/Coaster Combo Adult (10 & up): $33.99
- General Admission/Coaster Combo Child (3-9): $22.99
Remember, kids must be at least 3 years old to ride the Wild Stallion. General admission is free for children 2 and under.
Prices mentioned in this article are at the time of this writing and are subject to change. Prices do not include food, drink or souvenirs.
How much time do people spend at SkyLand Ranch?
Guests should expect to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring this attraction if they wish to do so at a leisurely pace and enjoy a small meal or a snack once at the top.
Although, it could be done in less than one hour if you’re in a hurry.
Where is the SkyLand Ranch?
SkyLand Ranch is at 1620 Parkway in Sevierville, just outside of Pigeon Forge.
It is located next to Five Oaks Farm Kitchen across from Tanger Outlets. Have you been to SkyLand Ranch yet? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.
Hi Morgan,
I liked your article about SkyLand Ranch. You mentioned that the Mountain Coaster was subject to a weight limit of 375 lbs. Is this a ride for one person and he/she can weigh up to 375 or is it for 2 and combined, they would need to weigh less than 376? I am a big guy, about 290. Is there enough room for me on this ride?
Thanks and take care.
Mark Christmas
Bean Station
Hi Mark – One person can ride it. You may want to double check with the attraction to be sure on the limit if in doubt. It’s no longer listed on the website, but I believe it’s the total. Most area mountain coasters limit it around 350-375.