Planning a stay at one of our Pigeon Forge condos near Dollywood? One of the most popular attractions you can’t miss is the Dollywood Express, a breathtaking 20-minute train ride into the scenic foothills of the Smoky Mountains! The ride is powered by an authentic steam-powered engine that takes you on a 5-mile journey through some of the most incredible views that nature has to offer, so don’t miss this epic adventure during your visit to the iconic theme park! Here’s everything you need to know about the Dollywood Express train ride:
1. What to Expect
The Dollywood Express train ride offers the chance to enjoy a fascinating trip back in time when travel in and out of the mountains of Pigeon Forge relied on trains! Once the engineer sounds the whistle, kick back to experience the spectacular scenery as a 110-ton steam locomotive guides your way through the mountains!
The Dollywood Express is perfect for all ages as it is a moderate thrill attraction, but parents will want to hang onto the kids as there are no seat restraint devices. Be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes early before departure time to board the train, as all seating is on a first-come, first-served basis!
2. Historical Engines with a Fascinating Past
Another one of the top things to know about the Dollywood Express train ride is that the locomotives feature a fascinating past! The two authentic Baldwin steam locomotives, Cinderella and Klondike Kate, were built in 1939 and 1943 by the Baldwin Manufacturing Company near Philadelphia. The engines were originally constructed for the U.S. Army, hauling troops and lumber through Alaska during World War II before eventually finding their second home in the Smokies!
The Dollywood Express traces its roots back to 1961, when the attraction debuted as part of the Rebel Railroad attraction that originally occupied the site. It has operated as the Dollywood Express ever since the park opened in 1986 under Dolly Parton’s name!
3. Maintaining the Authentic Steam-Powered Experience
The authentic steam-powered locomotives help create a truly memorable experience on the Dollywood Express! The park has completed a significant behind-the-scenes upgrade to the beloved steam train since last season, converting its historic locomotives from coal-fired to oil-fired operations. The change is designed to improve reliability and safety while preserving the authentic steam-powered experience that has defined the attraction for decades. The train ride itself remains essentially unchanged, except guests may notice no stray cinders when riding!
4. Ticket Information
The Dollywood Express Train Ride is included as part of your admission to Dollywood! You’ll find a variety of convenient ticket options to the theme park, including single-day tickets, multi-day tickets, season passes, and more! If you enjoy the scenic daytime rides through the mountains, consider coming back during Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas event for a festive night ride with holiday lights!
Where to Stay Near Dollywood
Check out all of our condo rentals in Pigeon Forge TN today to stay just minutes away from Dollywood, where you can enjoy the Dollywood Express train ride and all of the other exciting theme park attractions! We look forward to welcoming you to the Great Smoky Mountains!
