Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park, once a beloved destination in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, has a rich history that captivates the hearts of many. This mountaintop theme park, which opened its doors in 1961, offered visitors a unique and immersive experience, transporting them back in time to the Wild West.
The Origins of Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park
The park was originally named “Ghost Town in the Sky” and was situated atop Buck Mountain, at an elevation of 4,600 feet. This strategic location provided visitors with breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, adding to the park’s allure and charm.
The Closure and Reopening Attempts
Despite its initial success, Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park faced its fair share of challenges. In 2002, the park was forced to close its doors after a chairlift breakdown left passengers stranded for hours in the summer heat. This incident, coupled with financial difficulties, led to the park’s closure.
Attempts were made to revive the park, with a brief reopening in 2007. However, the park once again closed in 2009 due to financial issues and a devastating mudslide. Since then, the park’s fate has been the subject of ongoing legal battles, as various parties have sought to settle the ownership and determine the park’s future.
The Unique Attractions of Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park
Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park was renowned for its Wild West-themed attractions and rides. Visitors could explore the park’s various “towns,” including Indian Village, Mountain Town, and Mining Town, each offering a unique set of experiences.
Some of the park’s most notable attractions included:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Red Devil Cliffhanger Roller Coaster | A unique roller coaster with a boarding station at the top of the hill, providing an exhilarating ride. |
| Tilt-a-Whirl | A classic carnival ride that spun and tilted riders in a thrilling motion. |
| Goldrusher | A ride that simulated the experience of a gold rush, complete with mining carts and a sense of adventure. |
| Sea Dragon | A swinging ship ride that offered stunning views of the surrounding mountains. |
| Monster | A high-speed roller coaster that tested the bravery of its riders. |
In addition to these rides, the park also featured a variety of other attractions, such as the Mining Town Swing, Black Widow Scrambler, Bumper Cars, Dream Catcher Paratrooper, Casino, Round Up, Lil Devil coaster, Merry Go Round, and Silver Bullet flume.
The Cinematic Legacy of Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park
Beyond its role as a thrilling amusement park, Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park has also served as a filming location for several movies. Films such as “Dean Teaster’s Ghost Town” (2007), “Mandie and the Secret Tunnel” (2008), and “Ringside Rosary” (2010) have all utilized the park’s unique setting and Wild West-inspired atmosphere to enhance their cinematic experiences.
The Current Status and Future of Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park
As of 2023, Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park remains closed, with ongoing legal battles to determine its ownership and fate. The park’s closure has left a void in the hearts of many who fondly remember the thrilling rides, the immersive Wild West atmosphere, and the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the park’s future, the legacy of Ghost Town Smoky Mountains Amusement Park continues to captivate the imaginations of those who have experienced its magic. Whether through memories, photographs, or the occasional film appearance, the park’s spirit lives on, serving as a testament to the enduring allure of the Great Smoky Mountains and the power of nostalgia.
References
- https://www.romanticasheville.com/ghost_town.htm
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVId-0cMz-4
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ghost_Town_Village
- https://wbkr.com/abandoned-smoky-mountain-theme-park-is-literally-a-ghost-town/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9WZtNiqMSw