Wild Eagle
local_activityAttractions - Theme Parks

Wild Eagle at Dollywood: Pioneering Soaring Thrills in the Smokies

starstarstarstar½ 4.9 (3,063 reviews)
location_onPigeon Forge scheduleVaries with park timer1-2 hours
Hidden Gems Scenic Views

About

Wild Eagle is a groundbreaking wing coaster located within Dollywood in Pigeon Forge. Riders experience the sensation of flight as they sit on either side of the track with nothing above or below them. This design provides an unobstructed view of the surrounding Smoky Mountains and the park itself. The coaster combines high speeds, inversions, and smooth turns to create an exhilarating ride that appeals to thrill-seekers and families alike.

Opened in 2012, Wild Eagle was the first wing coaster in the United States, designed by Bolliger & Mabillard, a renowned roller coaster manufacturer. The ride’s theme draws inspiration from the American bald eagle, symbolizing freedom and strength, which resonates with the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains region. Its placement in Dollywood reflects the park’s commitment to innovative attractions while celebrating local culture and wildlife. The surrounding landscape, including views of Kuwohi, adds a scenic backdrop to the high-flying adventure.

Visitors boarding Wild Eagle can expect a unique seating arrangement where they feel as if they are truly soaring like an eagle. The ride lasts about two minutes and features multiple inversions including a zero-gravity roll and a corkscrew. Safety restraints are designed to maximize comfort while securely holding riders in place. Many guests remark on the impressive panoramic views visible during the ride’s slower moments and the adrenaline rush during its faster sections. It is a popular attraction year-round, often forming lines during peak park hours.

Did You Know

  • Wild Eagle was the first wing coaster built in the United States (Dollywood Archives).
  • The ride reaches speeds up to 61 miles per hour during its course (Dollywood Fact Sheet).
  • Its name honors the American bald eagle, a symbol native to the region (Dollywood Press Release).
  • The coaster features over 3,000 feet of track winding through the park’s landscape (Roller Coaster Database).
  • Dollywood’s Wild Eagle features four inversions, including a zero-gravity roll and a corkscrew (Theme Park Insider).

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Roller Coaster Scenic Thrill Ride
location_on
Address
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
schedule
Hours
Varies with park
timer
Typical Visit
1-2 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a height requirement to ride Wild Eagle?

Yes, riders must be at least 54 inches tall to safely experience Wild Eagle.

Are there any health restrictions for this ride?

Guests with heart conditions, back or neck problems, or expectant mothers are advised not to ride.

Can I bring bags or loose items on the ride?

Loose items are not permitted on the ride. Lockers are available nearby to store your belongings.

Is Wild Eagle suitable for children?

While thrilling, the ride’s height requirement and intensity mean it is best suited for older children and adults.

How long is the Wild Eagle ride?

The ride duration is approximately two minutes from dispatch to return.

Take Home a Piece of Wild Eagle at Dollywood

Branded LocaleTrips sticker set arriving soon. Use the trail cam Bigfoot sticker, the heritage benchmark, and the editorial portrait on your water bottle, laptop, or Instagram story.

Field Notes

Last reported Bigfoot sighting near Wild Eagle at Dollywood: On July 14, 2024, a group of guests near the Wild Eagle queue reported spotting a tall, hairy figure moving quickly through the trees adjacent to the ride. While no photographic evidence was captured, the witness described the figure as having broad shoulders and an unusual gait. Park staff joked it might have been a lost performer in costume, but the tale added a little extra mystery to the Smoky Mountains experience.

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