See MORE Smokies Weekly 3/24/2026

See More Smokies Weekly with Anakeesta

What’s New at Anakeesta: Faster Rides, Glass Gondolas, and Firefly Magic

Spring has officially arrived in the Great Smoky Mountains, and with it comes a massive wave of upgrades at one of Gatlinburg’s most iconic destinations: Anakeesta.

In the latest episode of See More Smokies Weekly, host Seymour Bear sat down with Austin from Anakeesta to discuss how the park spent its winter “hibernation” preparing for a record-breaking 2026 season. Here is everything you need to know about the reimagined mountain-top experience.

The “Crystal Express”: From 20 Minutes to 4

The biggest headline this year is the retirement of the original 2017 gondola system to make way for the Crystal Express. This state-of-the-art glass gondola system is a total game-changer for Parkway traffic and guest experience.

  • Speed: The ride to the summit has been slashed from 20 minutes down to just four minutes.
  • Accessibility: The new system features an “easy on, easy off” design, making it much simpler for families with strollers or guests with mobility needs to board.
  • 360-Degree Views: Because the gondolas are made of glass, guests enjoy unobstructed views of Mount LeConte and downtown Gatlinburg during the ascent.

Note: While construction wraps up, guests can currently access the mountain via the Ridge Rambler adventure trucks.

A Reimagined Firefly Village

Upon stepping off the Crystal Express, visitors will enter a completely refreshed Firefly Village. To accommodate the increased flow of guests, Anakeesta has updated the heart of the park with:

  • New Water Features: Adding to the serene mountain atmosphere.
  • Refreshed Retail: New shopping locations to find local Smokies gear.
  • A “New Look”: While many details are still under wraps, the entire village has been “reimagined” for a more immersive spring visit.

The Synchronous Firefly Light Show

One of the rarest sights in the Smokies is the synchronous fireflies, but scoring tickets to see them in the National Park can be nearly impossible. This spring, Anakeesta is launching its own Firefly Experience on the Treetop Skywalk.

This nighttime light show allows guests to walk through the trees and witness a spectacular display inspired by the natural phenomenon. It’s designed to be both a beautiful spectacle and an educational journey, teaching visitors from around the world about the protected fireflies that call the Smokies home.

Planning a trip to the mountains this week? Be sure to visit SeeMoreSmokies.com for more updates on attractions, weather, and the best spots to find fun in the Great Smoky Mountains!