Want something unique on the mountain top? At the Treetop Skywalk in Gatlinburg, Anakeesta also provides an incredible opportunity to walk through treetops to see the beautiful surroundings.
It is within a relaxing environment of the Smoky Mountains. Located high off the forest floor is this breathtaking tree skywalk, which is also the longest tree-based skywalk in North America.
The Skywalk is not only a wonderful experience but is also bespoke to individuals, families, tourists, couples, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
In case you are a tourist “holing up” in the quiet town of Bryson City at the Elk Hollow Resort, this is an ideal day out attraction for your Smoky Mountain trail.
1. What Is the Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta?.
A 16-bridge pathway of hanging bridges connected with one another in an 880-foot walk in the canopy of trees in a forest is called the Treetop Skywalk.
These are the hanging bridges, which are as high as 60 feet above the ground, indicating that visitors literally walk amidst the treetops.
It is a peaceful but exciting adventure in which one gets a panorama of the surrounding forest.
The travel takes one through the interpretive signs provided with some entertaining accounts of the local ecosystem, and, on special occasions, there are the magical displays of lights at night.
The Skywalk is found in the park in Anakeesta Adventure Park and is one of the features in the park, and a leading attraction in the Smokies that one cannot miss.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Included in the general admission |
| Duration | One can stay here as long as one likes |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
Other Adventures you can do at the Anakeesta Adventure Park
There are various other activities you can do at the park. Read along to know all about them.
Chondola Chairlift or the Ridge Rambler
Come to Anakeesta through the scenic chairlift ride, which is called the Chondola. It is the famous gondola of Gatlinburg.
- It is also the ONLY fixed-grip Chondola in the WORLD where the guests have a choice of riding in an open-air 4 or a gondola cabin 6-person chair with a bar.
- This is the scenic ride that travels up 600 feet above the mountain, where you will access the magical Firefly Village.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Included in the general admission |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Observation Tower
AnaVista observation tower is the tallest feature on the downtown Gatlinburg landscape and an awesome Smoky Mountains overlook tower!
- Visitors will also use 86 steps to reach the huge observation point on top of AnaVista Tower.
- You will be surrounded by scenic views of Kentucky on the top deck.
- Interpretive signs point out mountain ranges and peaks, and two glass panel floors enable the visitors to look up and down the garden that is separated by 60 feet!
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Included in the general admission |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Bird-Venture
A real hoot has been the opening of BirdVenture, an aviary-themed action area, in which people play and dream that they are birds in the Smokies.
- Children and children at heart can discover three colorful, oversized bird houses, 12 adventure zones to play on, and seven giant serpentine slides that will swirl more than 50 feet all the way down the mountainside with RGB light displays!
- This is another first-of-its-kind type of slide path in the United States.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Included in the general admission |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Dueling Zip line adventure
Explore the scenic Smokies with speeds up to 2,600 feet by sitting side-by-side with your family and friends.
- The 3 zip guided tour with various rappels gives you a thrill that you would only be begging to do more! No reservations are necessary, but you can do so.
- The tour guides are standing by and will never forget to tour you!
About It
| Hours | Varies |
| Price | Extra $59.99 with the ticket |
| Duration | 1.5 hours |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Hellbender Mountain Coaster
Get ready to experience a memorable trip at Anakeesta because here you are going to unveil The Hellbender Smoky Mountain Coaster, an attraction that you will be very much anticipating.
- The coaster is guaranteed to be thrilling with twists and spins, free-fall drops, and amazing scenic views that will keep your heart on tick and redefine the aspect of excitement in an entirely different dimension.
- You do not want to miss the chance of being one of the riders in this spectacular ride.
About It
| Hours | Varies |
| Price | Extra $16.99 with the ticket |
| Duration | Varies |
| Difficulty | Thrilling |
Astra Lumina
It is the 15th creation in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series, and the very first in the United States.
- Astra Lumina is a name that gives a feel of the light stars can bring to keep in contact with the endless beauty of the universe.
- The astral energy creates lighting and projections through the magic of light and sound, and turns the Smoky Mountains into a celestial pathway and relates the visitors to the stars and the big world around them.
About It
| Hours | 30 minutes after sundown to closing |
| Price | Extra $17.99 with the ticket |
| Duration | Varies |
| Difficulty | Thrilling |
Anakeesta Gem Mining
Be a millionaire at the Anakeesta Gem Mine! A sluice and interactively controlled waterfall enables children of any age to find that special gemstone or fossil.
- Gem Mining is available at the end of the Treetop Skywalk and next to the Children’s Treehouse Village Adventure.
- So, this is an activity that can always be enjoyed with family. Gem Mining depends upon the weather.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | $12 |
| Duration | Varies |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Rail Runner Mountain Coaster
Zip down the mountain on one of these single-rail tracks of 1,600 feet of downhill twists and turns and go over 25 miles an hour!
- Race down the trees at your pace, up and down an elevation punch of 400 ft!
- It is an exciting ride that gives its excitement in every turn before having a scenic uphill trip to the peak of the Anakeesta Mountain.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Extra $16.99 with the ticket |
| Duration | Varies |
| Difficulty | Thrilling |
Treehouse Adventure Play Area
Kids of any age will be delighted to spend some time in the trees playing in this fantastically themed village of tree houses that are all linked by bridges of different levels of difficulty.
- Guests will be surprised almost everywhere with physical and educational factors, which are aimed at developing power and confidence.
- Tram through a log walk to a bird nest nestled on a tree top, walk along a plank to a maze immersed in a house in the trees, and slither through a tube net to a climbing affair inside the walls of nature.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Included in the general admission |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Treeventure Challenge Course
Anakeesta treehouse adventure is another family outdoor entertainment and an imaginative environment.
- These are interactive treehouses with three levels of climbing, swinging, crawling, and sliding.
- There is a different feature that will satisfy kids of all ages: six netted bridges and three treehouses.
- Go to the highest point, view things and gain experience, and then slide back to the lowest point up the fun again.
About It
| Hours | Same as park hours |
| Price | Included in the general admission |
| Difficulty | Easy |
2. Anakeesta Map – Navigating to the Skywalk
It is good to look at the structure of the park with the approved map of the park before visiting Anakeesta. You can find the map online, on the official website of Anakeesta, or on their free mobile application.
The Treetop Skywalk is situated at the top of the mountain, and you will reach there through the Chondola or the Ridge Rambler up to the base station in downtown Gatlinburg.
When you reach the summit, take directions to Vista Gardens, where the garden has been landscaped very well and is a combination of art, nature, and relaxation.
The Treetop Skywalk has its entrance built into the gardens, so find a wooden ramp in a rustic style as an entrance into the treetops. Employees will direct you, and you do not need an extra ticket or a checkpoint other than entering the park.
The Skywalk is found in the park in Anakeesta Adventure Park and is one of the features in the park, and a leading attraction in the Smokies that one cannot miss.
Other Adventures you can do at the Anakeesta Adventure Park
The Skywalk is one loop, and you will start and end at the same part of Vista Gardens.. And since the bridges move a little, it seems like a real treetop adventure.
3. Treetop Skywalk Tickets & Entry Info
Here are the tickets and opening hours, which will help you have a smooth visit.
Ticket options & costs 2025
The Treetop Skywalk comes free with the general admission to Anakeesta, so you do not require purchasing an additional ticket to make the walk out on the bridges.
The price might not be the same depending on the season, even during events and demand, thus you should always visit the official site before visiting.
When you buy tickets online, you save extra and get amazing discounts.
Ticket Details
| Age Group | Price |
| Adults (12 to 59 yrs) | $35 |
| Children (4 to 11 yrs) | $23 |
| Seniors (60+ yrs) | $28 |
| Kids (under 3) | Free |
VIP Annual Pass
With the Vip Annual Unlimited access to Anakeesta for one year. You get VIP entrance to the Express Lane.
- All retail and food, and beverage outlets are 20% off. Tours of Dueling Zipline Adventure, Coaster Passes, Astra Lumina, and Gem Mine with a 20 % discount.
- 1 Buddy pass to bring a friend with you when you visit.
- What more does one want? Book your tickets now!
Ticket Details
| Age Group | Price |
| Adults (12 to 59 yrs) | $70 |
| Children (4 to 11 yrs) | $58 |
| Seniors (60+ yrs) | $63 |
| Kids (under 3) | Free |
Book in advance during weekends and holidays, because top seasons, tickets might be sold out.
Note: At least 2-3 hours should be allowed to visit the park without any rushing.
Opening Hours
The Treetop Skywalk timing is the same as that of Anakeesta. It is open as long as the park is open.
Don’t forget to check the official website before visiting; schedules may change with the seasons, and some activities (such as the Skywalk) might be closed when the weather is inclement.
Timing
| Day | Time |
| Monday to Sunday | 9 am to 10 pm |
5. Best Times to Visit the Skywalk
Not only are there tips on how to visit the Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta, but the time of the day can also make a significant difference.
Seasonal beauty or patterns of the crowd and the conditions of lighting, all of this is how to select the best time to visit a place in 2025:
Best Time of the day
9 am to 11 am is best in the mornings when you are trying to evade crowds. Early birds should arrive between 11 am and 2 pm, as most tourists typically come during this time.
- Another time is late afternoon, around 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm. The sunset colours are brushed across the forest canopy when the sun is low in the sky- just the current photo you need on Instagram.
- Naturally, there are seasonal light shows, such as when, in the month of Enchanted Winter, the Treetop Skywalk is covered with thousands of gyrating fairy lights. A visit to this scene will make one imagine that they walked through a fairytale land as they go around the bridges.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Spring (March-May)
Watch the park and the forest filled with flowers and fresh vegetation.
- The weather is favorable for hiking and walking.
- Spring Break weeks should be avoided to ensure there is less crowd.
Summer ( June to August)
Long hours allow you to watch the sunset and night lights.
- It is an intense heat with shade in a lush green canopy.
- This is the season when there will be more people around, particularly in July.
Tip: Go there early in the morning or later in the evening before 5 PM to escape the heat and the rush.
Fall (September to November)
The peak visiting hours. The varying decoys color the wood in reds, golds, and oranges it is so very stunning, some 60 feet off the ground.
- Fresh air and sunny weather provide the opportunity to go hiking and take photos.
- The nice festivities of this season also include such activities as the Bear-Varian Fall Festival.
Winter (December to February)
Although it is colder, this park is where people get holiday-related experiences that have glowing lights, warm food, and holiday decorations.
- In Anakeesta Enchanted Winter, the Treetop Skywalk becomes a light-filled forest fairytale.
- Fewer days of operation (mostly weekends), fewer visitors, and a calm atmosphere
6. How to Get There – Anakeesta Directions from Bryson City
Staying in Bryson City, and planning to visit the Treetop Skywalk of Anakeesta?
You will experience a picturesque drive in the center of the national park. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most scenic drives in the southeast of the U.S.
It is not exactly a short drive, but the road itself is quite a highlight of the trip; the winding routes, mountain views, and possible animal encounters make it one of the most enjoyable road trips in the area.
Step-by-Step driving instructions (scenic route via US-441 N)
- Heading in the direction of downtown Bryson City off the Elk Hollow Resort, one gets onto US-19 North.
- To go to Cherokee- follow signs to Cherokee- this is a win place to fill your tank or grab a snack, or to spend some time admiring the Oconaluftee Visitor Center inside or the Mingus Mill.
- Get onto the US-441 North (Newfound Gap Road).
- This is a beautiful road that passes along the center of the park and winds through the Newfound Gap and has spectacular views, and access points like Alum Cave Trail and the Clingmans Dome.
- Put aside some time to allow you to make stops at viewpoints or relieve yourself of traffic.
You Get to Gatlinburg, TN:
Traffic will build up as you drop down to Gatlinburg. Take US-441 until you get into the center of Gatlinburg.
- Anakeesta is at the Parkway itself, on the opposite side of the street, and there is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
- Park at one of the nearby Parking convenience lots (see tips below), then walk to the Anakeesta Chondola base station at 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN.
Approximate Distance: 50 miles
Drive Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Parking
Downtown Gatlinburg is small yet lively. Your best parking options are the following:
- Ripley Aquarium Parking Garage
- On the street right near the entrance of Anakeesta
- Municipal Parking Garage McMahan Garage
Tips:
Come before 10 AM on the weekends or holidays in order to reserve a place.
- There are self-pay kiosks and bring cash or cards.
- Trolleys in Gatlinburg also come to Anakeesta in case you are parked farther.
7. Why Stay at Elk Hollow Resort While Visiting Gatlinburg Attractions
When you have a day of treetop exploration under your belt, there is nothing as simple as coming back to your own and private cabin in nature, and this is what Elk Hollow Resort in Bryson City features.
- Tranquil Location: Away out of sight of Gatlinburg crowds and traffic.
- Day Trips: Easy accessibility to attractions in the Smoky Mountains and other common attractions in Tennessee.
- Modern Amenities: Cute, luxurious cabins with a forest view.
- Family & Couple friendly: Spacious Firepits, decks, and a place to relax.
It is gifting you with the best of both worlds; thrill predominates in the afternoon, and serenity takes over in the evening.
Plan your relaxing getaway to the Smoky Mountains at the Elk Hollow Resort.
8. Bonus: Tips for Visiting Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta
Anakeesta is not just another amusement park but a fitness experience at the mountaintop, combining nature, excitement, and rest. Here are some essential tips to follow that will help you on your trip.
Footwear
Anakeesta is a mountain-top excitement that covers several levels and is linked via paths, stairs, ramps, and bridges. You will go uphill, through wooden bridges, gardens, and you might even climb the AnaVista Tower.
- Steer clear of sandals, flip-flops, or heels. Use sneakers, trail shoes, or hiking sandals that have grip.
- Even children and elderly citizens will find sturdy shoes useful as well, particularly in the Treetop Skywalk, whose suspension bridges rock slightly.
Check the Weather
Anakeesta is open in any weather conditions; however, during harsh weather (such as lightning, really strong wind, heavy rain, or ice), temporary closures might be witnessed, especially in the outdoor attractions, such as the Treetop Skywalk, the Zipline, and the Rail Runner coaster.
- Before venturing out, check the forecast of Gatlinburg, TN, and keep track of their official website or social media to know in real time of closures.
- In case, take along a light raincoat or poncho. The weather in the Smoky Mountains can turn rapidly!
Bring Water, Sunscreen, and Layers
Although Anakeesta is higher than downtown Gatlinburg, the location could be hot during summer and cold during the fall and winter months.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen, as you are going to spend a lot of time outside when moving between Vista Gardens, the Skywalk, and open decks.
- Remember to bring an empty water bottle. Firefly Village has water refills and fountains.
- When it is colder, or during late night, carry a light jacket or hoodie if you are planning to stroll over breezy bridges at night.
Time Taken to Visit
You can make your visit to Anakeesta a quick one, but staying more time will make it a memorable trip. We suggest allotting 2 to 3 hours at least-more so when you are going to have some food or ride the coaster or the zipline.
The moderate visit may have the following appearance:
30 minutes: The Chondola ride up and Firefly Village
30 to 45 min: Take a stroll in the Treetop Skywalk
20-30 minutes: Climb AnaVista Tower + have the views
45 minutes: Walk to Vista Gardens, Tree House, or Shop/Eat
Carry a Camera
There are enough photo opportunities at Anakeesta, the longest bridge of the Skywalk, shady garden walks, mountain viewpoints, and comfortable treetop buildings.
- Photocameras and phones are good-welcome, but wear wrist bands or straps or lanyards on swing bridges.
- The use of drones in the park is prohibited by the rules about airspace safety.
Stroller/Wheelchair Friendly
The positive news is that the biggest part of Anakeesta is stroller-and wheelchair-accessible: Firefly Village, Vista Gardens (there are ramps), AnaVista Tower (accessible via elevator), and food outlets.
- The zipline, Treeventure Challenge Course, and Treetop Skywalk. These call for walking on uneven or hanging surfaces or climbing steps.
- Only a few wheelchairs are on rent at the station base. Call ahead or come early when necessary.
Conclusion | Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta
It is not a simple walk; it is a floating trip into the forest, the place where you find yourself in touch with nature again and have a nice time in a safe adventure with your loved ones.
Do you want to see the sunset on the AnaVista Tower or take pictures in the canopy bridges? This is something you are not likely to forget.
It is just the right complement to your trip to the Smoky Mountains when you are sightseeing in Bryson City, particularly at the calming Elk Hollow Resort.
This itinerary is an incredible combination of adventure and rest, a mixture of the adrenaline one feels when he or she is walking very high, and calm and quiet when one gets back to a warm cabin.
Are you ready to walk through trees? Stop by Elk Hollow and make it your base in the mountains, then add the Treetop Skywalk to your 2025 adventure.
FAQs | Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta
What is the Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta?
The Treetop Skywalk is an 880-foot-long series of 16 hanging bridges suspended up to 60 feet above the forest floor. It offers visitors a thrilling yet peaceful walk through the treetops in the Smoky Mountains and is the longest tree-based skywalk in North America.
Where is the Treetop Skywalk located?
It’s located within Anakeesta Adventure Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The entrance to the Skywalk is in Vista Gardens, which can be reached by riding the Chondola or Ridge Rambler to the top of the mountain.
Do I need a separate ticket for the Treetop Skywalk?
No, access to the Treetop Skywalk is included in your general admission ticket to Anakeesta. No additional purchase is required unless you plan to enjoy premium experiences like ziplining or the Hellbender Coaster.
How long does it take to walk through the Treetop Skywalk?
Most visitors spend 30 to 45 minutes exploring the Skywalk, depending on pace and photo stops. Since it’s a loop, you’ll start and end at the same point near Vista Gardens.
Is the Treetop Skywalk safe for children and seniors?
Yes, the Skywalk is family-friendly and safe for all age groups. While the suspension bridges do sway slightly, they are secure. Wearing supportive footwear is recommended.
What should I wear to Anakeesta and the Skywalk?
Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes with a good grip. Avoid sandals, heels, or flip-flops, especially on the Skywalk’s suspension bridges. Layered clothing is ideal, as temperatures can vary.
When is the best time to visit the Treetop Skywalk?
The best time of day is early morning (9–11 AM) or late afternoon (4–7 PM) for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting. Fall is ideal for foliage views, while winter evenings showcase magical light displays.
Is the Treetop Skywalk open year-round?
Yes, it operates year-round during park hours but may temporarily close during severe weather such as lightning, high winds, or ice. Always check the official Anakeesta website for real-time updates.
Is the Skywalk wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Unfortunately, due to its elevated suspension design, the Treetop Skywalk is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. However, many other areas of Anakeesta—like Firefly Village, AnaVista Tower, and Vista Gardens—are accessible.
How do I get to Anakeesta from Bryson City?
Drive along US-19 North and US-441 N through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The scenic route takes about 1.5 hours. Anakeesta is located in downtown Gatlinburg, across from Ripley’s Aquarium.
Is it worth staying in Bryson City while visiting Anakeesta?
Yes! Bryson City offers a peaceful retreat away from Gatlinburg’s crowds. Staying at Elk Hollow Resort provides a relaxing cabin experience with easy access to Smoky Mountain attractions like the Treetop Skywalk.
