How fast is lightning rod at Dollywood?

Lightning Rod ® At the crest of the hill, riders face twin summit airtime hills before tackling the daring first drop. Lightning Rod races down the 165-foot drop and propels guests along its 3,800-foot track to a top speed of 73 mph.



Lightning Rod at Dollywood is a world-class wooden-to-steel hybrid roller coaster that reaches a top speed of 73 mph (117 km/h). Originally opening in 2016 as the world's first launched wooden coaster, it gained legendary status for its high-velocity uphill launch. However, in late 2023 and early 2024, Dollywood replaced the problematic launch system with a high-speed chain lift. Despite this mechanical change, the ride maintains its 73 mph top speed during its massive 165-foot initial drop. The coaster is famous for its relentless pace, quadruple down element, and "airtime" that keeps riders out of their seats for a significant portion of the journey. In 2026, it remains one of the fastest and most aggressive coasters in the United States, utilizing its IBox steel track to provide a smooth but incredibly intense experience that consistently ranks it among the top attractions in any theme park worldwide.

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In September 2023, Dollywood announced that it would close Lightning Rod between October 30, 2023, and spring 2024 so it could replace the ride's launch system with a chain lift hill. The change was intended to improve reliability, although the ride would retain its top speed of 73 miles per hour (117 km/h).

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Standing some 63 feet (19m) tall, the surprising forceful coaster reaches speeds up to 47 mph (75.5 km/h).

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At the end of Dollywood's Harvest Festival presented by Humana on October 30, Lightning Rod will close for the winter as it's existing launch system is replaced with a high-speed chain lift, park officials said in a video posted to the park's social media. The ride will reopen Spring 2024.

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Also new at Dollywood in 2024 is the updated Lightning Rod coaster, which will offer a new high-speed chain lift.

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Visit on a Lighter Day Generally, you'll find Dollywood is most crowded in summer and fall. While going to Dollywood in the low season is ideal, visiting on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday during summer is the best way to dodge crowds and long lines.

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Wild Eagle The Wild Eagle was the first ride of its kind in the United States and is situated 21 stories above Dollywood, providing a true bird's eye view of the park. Enjoy this unique experience as you turn upside down three times and soar high above the Smoky Mountains!

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Weapons and alcoholic beverages are not permitted on Dollywood Property.

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This 230-foot tall drop tower pulls an impressive negative 3.2 G's as it slams towards earth at nearly 80 MPH. The views are beautiful, but the real reason to ride is the rush! The Drop Line, which opened in Spring of 2017, is one of the tallest drop towers in the country.

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