Settle into your seat and let someone else drive you up to the top. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a superb way of seeing The Smoky Mountains from the top. Indulge in the spectacular view as it unfolds under you. Daydream as you sit in the cabin and watch the beauty.

The Wheel towering at 200 feet is at the foot of the most visited National Park in the United States. As the hub of The Island in Pigeon Forge, it stands as one of the tallest attractions east of the Mississippi. It opened in summer 2013, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel will give riders an unmatched view of the world famous Smokies in all glass gondolas that seat up to 8 guests.

On the top of the wheel, you feel a force pushing you outward. There is no great acceleration on the top so people who are scared of heights, feel safe. When you reach the bottom of the Observation wheel, the ride becomes a little more exciting. Due to that fact that both those forces, rotation and weight, combine to result in a greater acceleration.

The Great Smoky Mountain Observation wheel is a large, rotatable wheel. It is mounted on a central support and has cars mounted to the rim. Due to the height and slow movement, this wheel provides an impressive view of the surrounding area. The Wheel turns continuously at low speed so that people can get on and off easily. This modern Observation wheel is much larger than the Ferris wheels which it evolved from. The capsules are enclosed and air conditioned, allowing year round operation. There are 42 cabins with 8 people in each cabin. 336 passengers can ride at one time. The duration of the ride is 12 minutes. VIP cabins are available as well. The cabins are furnished with plush leather seats and have special glass floor.

Designers for the Wheel at the Island in Pigeon Forge expect this rotating ride to endure all weather conditions. But if there is high volume winds or lightning the ride may briefly close. In the event of a full refund will be issued if the ride remains closed for the day. Come after dark and catch the wheel as it lights up for a spectacular LED light show.

• Other Ticket Prices: Adults- $ 13+ tax; Child- $ 9 + tax; Senior- $ 11 + tax
• Pre-paid Tickets-  $11 per person.
• VIP Experience- $ 50
• Tips & Warnings: The multi-coloured lights of the evening show dance in the night sky.
• Group pricing is also available for groups of 15 people or more.

• Poynor's Pommes Frites- German
• Auntie Anne's & Cinnabon- Bakery
• Island Yogurt- Ice cream
• Mellow Mushroom at the Island in Pigeon Forge- American, Pizza, Bar

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Pigeon Forge before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Pigeon Forge and book an accommodation of your choice.