Adventures abound in Sevierville, but the latest and greatest offering is especially compelling: SkyLand Ranch. Conveniently situated near the Tanger Outlets, this remarkable attraction was made possible by the geniuses behind Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark in nearby Pigeon Forge.
The property used to be a farm owned by local legend David Ogle. Tennessee natives Mark and Lisa Williford have paid homage to these humble origins while developing SkyLand Ranch, but they also honor their childhood memories of the Smokies’ finest theme parks.
As the ultimate entertainment complex, SkyLand Ranch offers something for everyone. The attraction is especially appealing to school-age kids and teens, who can find endless thrills on the mountain coaster, plus all the treats they could possibly want at the bakery and candy shop.
Adult attendees may be more impressed by the shopping area. Known as the retail barn, this oasis boasts some of the best gifts and souvenirs in the area.
The fun begins near the beloved Five Oaks Farm Kitchen. At the base of SkyLand Ranch, you can purchase tickets for a chairlift that will take you to the top of the hill. There, you’ll find an abundance of attractions — so you’ll need several hours to take it all in.
Whether shopping, sightseeing, or adventuring, you and your loved ones will appreciate the Smoky Mountain vibes that dominate this property. As its name suggests, the complex has been carefully designed to reflect the look and feel of a ranch. This is evident in every detail, such as the barn styles of the shopping and dining areas.
When you aren’t marveling at the decor, you’ll gaze in awe at the pristine views. The ranch’s location on one of the highest spots in Sevierville lends it some of the town’s best scenery. These panoramas are best enjoyed from the canopy walk and suspended bridge, but are spectacular just about anywhere on the property — especially at sunset.
A few of our favorite activities and attractions include the following:
Chairlift
The chairlift at SkyLand Ranch is both an attraction and essential transportation to the top of the hill. The ride lasts nine minutes, offering stunning views of the Smokies along the way. This hybrid chairlift offers multiple options to suit different types of visitors. These include conventional chairs and open-air cabins.
Miniature Animals
It should be easy to keep tots entertained at SkyLand Ranch. They’ll quickly fall in love with the miniature animals, such as adorable cows and donkeys. This can be an educational experience, as reflected in the owners’ plans to have local schools hit up the ranch for unforgettable field trips.
Mountain Coaster
Known as the Wild Stallion, this is the longest mountain coaster in the southeast — so it’s definitely worth a try if you typically complain that mountain coaster adventures are over too soon. The full experience lasts about twelve minutes. As with other local coasters, you can control your journey with help from the easy-to-operate brake on your single-rider car.
Observation Bridge and Deck
If you’re all about the views, you’ll likely spend the majority of your SkyLand Ranch excursion on its scenic bridge and deck. On the ADA-accessible bridge, you’ll encounter impressive 360-degree views of the Smokies. David Ogle compares this relaxing experience to the mountain version of gazing at the ocean.
Bring the entire family to SkyLand Ranch, where wonderful views and even better memories are guaranteed. This must-visit attraction exemplifies everything you love about Sevierville: the gorgeous mountain scenery, the indulgent food, and the down-home vibes.
Insider Tips:
-SkyLand Ranch offers both general admission and combination tickets. The combo option gets you not only up the chairlift but also, access to the mountain coaster. There is no general admission charge for children under the age of 3.
-Plenty of free parking is available near the entrance. On busy days, you can take advantage of overflow parking conveniently situated across the Parkway. If you use overflow parking, a shuttle will take you to the main entrance.