Smoky Mountains: Mountaintop Zipline & ATV Adventure

Summary

Zipline above Smoky Mountain treetops with sky bridges & atv ride

You’ll ride an ATV up through cool mountain air, then soar side-by-side on six ziplines above Smoky Mountain forests with a local guide leading each step. Cross four sky bridges high above the trees and finish by rappelling down as your heart slows back to normal. Expect laughter, nerves—and views you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I was honestly sweating before we even started—my left shoe lace snapped in the parking lot (classic), so I had to double-knot it weirdly. Our guide, Jamie, just grinned and handed me a spare. The whole group piled into this big 6-seater ATV, which kind of rattled and bounced us up the mountain. I kept thinking we’d tip over, but Jamie drove like he’d done it a thousand times—probably has. The air smelled like pine needles and something sweet I couldn’t place. Maybe wildflowers? It was still early, so there was this damp chill that stuck to my shirt.

At the top, you could see layers of blue ridges rolling out forever—way more than any photo ever shows. We clipped in for the first zipline run, standing awkwardly close on the platform (I kept checking my harness). My friend tried to make a joke about flying squirrels but just squeaked instead. The dual zip lines meant we zipped together—side by side—which made it less scary somehow? Wind in your face, shoes dangling over nothing, that weird mix of terror and laughing at yourself. Jamie shouted something about “look left!” mid-zip and yeah, that view… I still think about that moment when everything went quiet except for the whir of the line.

The sky bridges were trickier than I expected—ropes swaying underfoot and hands grabbing for balance (I may have said “sorry” to a tree). There’s this one bridge where you can see straight down through gaps in the planks; my stomach did a little flip but nobody seemed to mind if you took it slow. At the last platform, Jamie explained how rappelling worked—I didn’t really get it until my feet left solid ground. It’s not freefall, just sort of floating down steady while everyone below cheers or pretends not to watch.

I’m not sure what I thought ziplining in the Smokies would be like—maybe more touristy? But sharing those little moments with strangers (and my lopsided shoe) felt oddly personal. By the end I was grinning like an idiot, hair full of wind and hands smelling faintly of metal from all that gear. Not perfect—but honestly, that’s what made it stick with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mountaintop zipline and ATV adventure

• Ride ATV to mountain top
• Zip side-by-side on six lines
• Walk across four aerial bridges
• Rappel off final platform

Top questions

How long does the Mountaintop Zipline tour take?

The tour lasts about 2 hours from start to finish.

Is there an age or height requirement for this Smoky Mountains zipline?

Participants must be at least 5 years old and 42 inches tall.

What is included in the Mountaintop Zipline & ATV Adventure?

The tour includes six dual ziplines, four sky bridges, an ATV ride to the top, guided support throughout, and free cell-phone lockers.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

No meals are included during this activity.

Are there weight limits for participants?

The weight limit is 250 lbs (or 270 lbs if you're 5'10" or taller).

Do I need closed-toe shoes for this zipline tour?

Yes, closed-toe shoes are required for safety reasons.

Can pregnant guests participate in this activity?

No, pregnant guests cannot join due to safety restrictions.

Will there be a local guide on this Smoky Mountains adventure?

Yes—a local guide leads every step of your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes an ATV ride up the mountainside with your group and local guide; all safety gear for six side-by-side ziplines; four aerial sky bridges; a final rappel from the last platform; plus free cell-phone lockers so you don’t have to worry about your stuff while you’re flying through the Smokies.