Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
Soar 200 feet on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for stunning 360° views of the Smokies and Pigeon Forge in comfortable, glass gondolas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar 200 feet on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for stunning 360° views of the Smokies and Pigeon Forge in comfortable, glass gondolas.
"The views from the Wheel are incredible, offering a peaceful break from crowds with unforgettable sights."
🎯 Day/Night Combo Pass
Get the best value with a combo pass for rides during the day and night!
😌 Conquer Your Fears
Glass gondolas feel secure and offer amazing views, even for those scared of heights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Top of the Wheel
Soar 200 feet for breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge.
All-Glass Gondolas
Gondola Cabins
Enjoy a comfortable, climate-controlled ride with clear views from every angle.
Day & Night Experience
The Island in Pigeon Forge
Experience the magic of the mountains by day and the glittering lights of Pigeon Forge by night.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket Options & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Day/Night Combo Pass
Get the best value with a combo pass for rides during the day and night!
😌 Conquer Your Fears
Glass gondolas feel secure and offer amazing views, even for those scared of heights. +1
💰 Military Discount Available
Active military members can get a discount on tickets.
💨 Climate Controlled Gondolas
Enjoy a comfortable ride year-round with AC in the gondolas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Day/Night Combo Pass
Get the best value with a combo pass for rides during the day and night!
😌 Conquer Your Fears
Glass gondolas feel secure and offer amazing views, even for those scared of heights. +1
💰 Military Discount Available
Active military members can get a discount on tickets.
💨 Climate Controlled Gondolas
Enjoy a comfortable ride year-round with AC in the gondolas.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The 200-foot height offers incredible photo opportunities of the mountains and town. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge, especially from the comfortable, all-glass gondolas. The Day/Night combo pass is frequently recommended for its excellent value, allowing guests to experience the attraction in both daylight and illuminated at night. While some wish the ride was longer, the overall experience is described as relaxing, memorable, and a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
"The view from The Wheel was awesome, I experienced it at night with all the lights! Very comfortable ride even if you're a bit scared of heights. After fully loading everyone you get 3 full rounds and I believe the cost of The Wheel was $16.99 outside of the unlimited ride band for $40.00. We got to ride for 2 days with the same bands."
Nina Abato
"The views feom the Wheel are incredible. I was so surprised and grateful that they have a day/night combo pass. The price was wonderful for 2 rides. Highly recommend if you're in the area. The pods have AC and seats which was a nice bonus."
K S
"Riding The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is an experience that blends relaxation with awe. The smooth, gentle rotation gives you plenty of time to soak in sweeping views of the Smokies, the Parkway, and the charming bustle of Pigeon Forge below. Each enclosed gondola feels safe and climate-controlled, making it a comfortable ride in any weather or season. What truly stands out is the perspective — seeing the mountains stretch into the distance under a wide-open sky makes you appreciate their beauty in a whole new way. Whether you ride during the day for crisp, scenic views or at night for the glittering lights of the town, it’s a must-do attraction that offers a peaceful break from the crowds while delivering unforgettable sights."
Jerry Watts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. You can drive and park at The Island, or utilize local trolley services that stop at the attraction. Many visitors find it easily accessible from Gatlinburg and Sevierville. +1
Yes, The Island offers ample parking for visitors. During peak times, it can get busy, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
While Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are close, walking directly to The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel from Gatlinburg is a significant distance. It's best to use a car or the local trolley system.
The main route is via US-441 (Parkway). Depending on your starting point, you might also use I-40 and exit towards Pigeon Forge. Traffic can be heavy, especially on the Parkway.
Yes, the Pigeon Forge Trolley system has stops at The Island, making it a convenient option for getting around without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically range from $14.99 for adults and $9.99 for children (ages 3-11). Kids under 3 ride free. A Day/Night combo pass for two rides within 24 hours is around $22.99. Military discounts may also be available. +1
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during busy seasons, to save time. You can usually buy them directly through The Island's website or at the attraction.
This pass allows you to ride the Wheel twice within a 24-hour period, once during the day and once at night, offering two distinct scenic experiences.
Discounts may be available for military personnel, and sometimes package deals or combo passes offer savings. Check The Island's official website for current offers.
The ride typically includes three full rotations, giving you ample time to enjoy the views. Some visitors feel the ride could be longer, but it's generally considered a good duration for the price.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The views are spectacular! You'll get panoramic vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains, the bustling Parkway of Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding attractions from 200 feet up. +1
Yes, the gondolas are fully enclosed with glass, offering clear, unobstructed views. They are also climate-controlled with air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable ride in any weather.
Many visitors who are afraid of heights found the ride to be comfortable and manageable due to the secure, enclosed gondolas and the smooth rotation. The views are worth it!
Each all-glass gondola can seat up to 8 guests, making it a great option for families or small groups.
The Island offers a wide array of attractions, including shops, restaurants, a ropes course, a show fountain, and other amusement rides. The Wheel is just one part of the entertainment complex.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Island in Pigeon Forge has numerous dining options, from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants, located all around the Wheel.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the gondolas to maintain cleanliness. However, you can enjoy refreshments before or after your ride at the many eateries on The Island.
You'll find a variety of cuisines, including American comfort food, pizza, and more. Popular spots include Paula Deen's Family Kitchen and Dick's Last Resort.
Absolutely! Numerous snack vendors and shops are located on The Island, offering everything from ice cream to popcorn, perfect for a pre-ride treat.
Yes, from the top of The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, you can get a bird's-eye view of the entire Island complex, including the various restaurants and their outdoor seating areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Nighttime is also fantastic for capturing the Wheel's lights and the town's glow.
Yes, the all-glass gondolas are perfect for photography, offering unobstructed views. Just be mindful of reflections on the glass.
The base of The Island, especially near the show fountain, offers great angles. The surrounding shops and walkways also provide good vantage points.
Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed. However, commercial use or drone photography may require special permits. Always check with the attraction management if unsure.
You can capture sweeping landscapes of the Smoky Mountains, detailed shots of Pigeon Forge below, and unique perspectives of the Ferris wheel structure itself.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The ride is smooth and gentle, making it enjoyable for all ages. Plus, the climate-controlled cabins ensure comfort, no matter the weather outside. Consider the Day/Night combo pass for added value and a chance to see the mountains and Pigeon Forge lights from two different perspectives. The Island itself offers plenty of other attractions and dining options, making it a great destination for a full day of family fun.
💑 Couples
Enjoy the private, climate-controlled gondolas as you share the stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the vibrant town. It's a perfect opportunity for conversation and to appreciate the beauty of the Smokies together.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to potentially avoid the highest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. While not free, the views and the unique experience of riding in a climate-controlled, all-glass gondola are often considered well worth the investment for the memories created.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Views: Day vs. Night
+1As dusk settles, The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel transforms into a beacon of light. The surrounding Island complex illuminates, creating a dazzling spectacle. Riding at night provides a different kind of awe, with the twinkling lights of Pigeon Forge spread out below like a carpet of stars. The Wheel itself is beautifully lit, making it a stunning centerpiece. The Day/Night combo pass is highly recommended by visitors to fully appreciate both the natural grandeur and the vibrant man-made beauty.
Comfort and Accessibility in the Gondolas
Furthermore, the gondolas are climate-controlled, featuring air conditioning, which makes the ride pleasant regardless of the outside temperature or season. They are also equipped with comfortable seating, allowing guests to relax and fully enjoy the scenic journey. With a capacity of up to eight people, they are perfect for families or small groups looking to share the experience.
Value and Ticket Options
For those seeking extended enjoyment, The Island often offers unlimited ride bands that can include The Wheel, providing access to multiple attractions over a set period. Additionally, keep an eye out for potential discounts, such as those for military personnel, which can further enhance the affordability of the experience.
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