If you’ve ever been to Anakeesta, you know there’s something truly special about this mountaintop park above Gatlinburg. From its breathtaking Smoky Mountain views to the peaceful treetop adventures and charming Firefly Village, it’s an experience that feels both natural and magical. I visited not too long ago, and it was one of those places that stays with you long after you leave. Now, Anakeesta is looking toward the future with an ambitious $100 million investment that promises to make this one-of-a-kind destination even more spectacular.
Let’s take a look at what’s coming next for the mountaintop escape that continues to redefine outdoor adventure.
The New Scenic Lift — Opening Spring 2026
At the heart of Anakeesta’s next phase is a brand-new state-of-the-art scenic lift, set to begin construction in November 2025. Since opening in 2017, the original Chondola has carried millions of guests up the mountain, becoming an iconic part of the park’s story. Now, that journey is being completely reimagined.
The new lift will feature 56 spacious, glass-bottom cabins that glide above Gatlinburg with 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains. The four-minute ascent promises to be smoother, faster, and even more immersive. Boarding and exiting will be easier, ensuring the adventure begins the moment you leave the Parkway. It’s not just transportation—it’s an experience in itself.
A Reimagined Firefly Village
Firefly Village has always been the heart of Anakeesta—a place to shop, dine, and take in the sweeping views. Soon, it will become a whimsical storybook escape, with winding pathways, flowing water features, and an enchanting atmosphere both day and night.
The reimagined village, beginning construction in late 2025, will include a new overlook offering fresh perspectives of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. With new spaces designed for gathering, exploring, and relaxing, Firefly Village will glow with renewed magic—truly capturing the essence of Anakeesta’s name, which means “place of the balsams.”
The Expanded Treetop Skywalk
Already home to North America’s longest treetop skywalk, Anakeesta isn’t stopping there. Construction is already underway to extend the elevated experience even further.
New towers, bridges, and forest pathways will carry guests deeper into the canopy, with a brand-new overlook revealing fresh angles of Gatlinburg below. For anyone who loves the serenity of walking among the trees, this expanded skywalk will be a must-do when it opens.
The Nighttime Firefly Experience
As night falls, Anakeesta will soon glow in a new way. Set to begin construction this spring, the Nighttime Firefly Experience will bring the wonder of synchronous fireflies to life year-round.
Using cutting-edge lighting and design, the park will recreate the enchanting, flickering glow of fireflies dancing in the forest—something that typically happens only a few weeks each year in the Smokies. Guests will be able to stroll through the glowing landscape, surrounded by nature and light in perfect harmony.
A Bright Future in the Smokies
Anakeesta’s transformation is more than just new rides or attractions—it’s about deepening the connection between guests and the mountain. Every addition is designed to elevate the natural beauty and storytelling that make the park so memorable.
With the lift of tomorrow, a reimagined village, and new experiences that bring light to the night, Anakeesta’s future shines brighter than ever. And if you’ve never been—or haven’t been in a while—it’s the perfect time to plan a return trip to the mountain that keeps growing in magic.
