PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.—Dollywood has opened NightFlight Expedition, a $60 million indoor coaster that combines a nighttime flight over the Smokies, whitewater rafting effects, a mountain-ridge climb, and a lake splashdown.
The attraction, located in the park’s Wildwood Grove area, is Dollywood’s 11th roller coaster and its largest single-attraction investment to date. The nearly 5½-minute experience is housed in a 44,000-square-foot, temperature-controlled facility and has a 39-inch height requirement.
“I’m so proud that we’re able to open something like NightFlight Expedition and give families a brand-new way to experience the Smokies together,” said Dolly Parton via video. “Growing up here, I learned to love these mountains in a way that stays with you your whole life. This ride truly is an adventure that lets you see the mountains the way I always remember them, full of wonder and beauty.”
The coaster features four ride experiences in a single attraction. Guests soar through an indoor nighttime Smokies setting, encounter a whitewater rafting sequence using more than 500,000 gallons of water, travel over a mountain ridge, and splash into a Smoky Mountain lake.
NightFlight Expedition continues the story of Wildwood Grove through Cora and Jasper Oakley, twin scientists and relatives of Ned Oakley, the character introduced with the Big Bear Mountain coaster in 2023. During the ride, guests join the siblings’ search for Secret Lake, the source believed to power Wildwood Tree’s illuminated canopy.
The attraction’s custom ride vehicle interacts with multimedia projections, onboard and offboard audio, and lighting effects. Dollywood developed the coaster with Herschend Creative Studios and manufacturer Mack Rides.
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort are offering NightFlight Expedition-themed programming and packages for stays from Aug. 21 through Oct. 31, subject to availability. Offerings include themed décor, photo opportunities, Camp DW activities, food and beverage items, and VIP experiences that include a Dollywood tour and ride access.
