Dragonflier

Dragonflier is one of the most thrilling yet family-friendly roller coasters at Dollywood, located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Situated within the Wildwood Grove area of the park, this suspended coaster offers an exhilarating ride that appeals to children, teens, and adults alike. With its unique design, smooth transitions, and immersive theming, Dragonflier has quickly become a favorite attraction for visitors looking to enjoy a high-flying adventure in a beautifully themed setting.

History and Development

The Dragonflier opened in 2019 as part of Dollywood’s Wildwood Grove expansion, a $37 million addition to the park that featured eleven new experiences, including rides, dining, and interactive play areas. The expansion aimed to provide a magical, nature-inspired environment that captured the imagination of visitors of all ages. As the centerpiece of this new area, Dragonflier was designed to deliver a thrilling yet accessible ride experience, bridging the gap between Dollywood’s more intense coasters and the gentle family rides.

Manufactured by Vekoma, a Dutch roller coaster company known for its innovative and family-friendly ride designs, Dragonflier is a Suspended Family Coaster model. This type of ride features a unique layout where the train is suspended beneath the track, allowing riders’ legs to dangle freely as they zip through tight turns and swooping drops. It’s a ride that offers just the right mix of excitement and comfort, making it a perfect addition to the Wildwood Grove area.

Theming and Ride Experience

Themed after a dragonfly darting through a forest, Dragonflier takes riders on a journey that mirrors the swift, agile movements of the insect. As guests board the coaster, they’re seated in suspended-style cars, which hang below the track and provide an unobstructed view of the lush surroundings. The experience begins with a gentle ascent before the train swoops into the first exhilarating drop, giving riders the sensation of soaring through the air.

The coaster reaches speeds of up to 46 miles per hour, taking riders through tight curves, overbanked turns, and sudden dips that simulate the rapid maneuvers of a dragonfly in flight. The layout includes a thrilling near-ground helix, giving a sensation of flying low and fast over the terrain, as well as a series of sweeping turns that maintain a smooth yet exciting ride throughout. The entire experience is designed to be thrilling without being too intense, ensuring it’s suitable for a wide range of guests.

Technical Details and Specifications

• Manufacturer: Vekoma
• Type: Suspended Family Coaster
• Height: 63 feet
• Length: 1,486 feet
• Top Speed: 46 mph
• Duration: Approximately 1 minute and 20 seconds
• Height Requirement: 39 inches (minimum) with an accompanying adult or 48 inches to ride alone
• Capacity: 12 passengers per train

The compact footprint and clever use of the terrain make Dragonflier a standout family ride that packs a lot of fun into a relatively small area. Its suspended design allows for tighter turns and more dynamic maneuvers compared to a traditional coaster, contributing to a ride experience that feels agile and energetic.

Wildwood Grove: A Perfect Setting

The Dragonflier’s location within Wildwood Grove adds to its appeal. This area of Dollywood is known for its lush landscaping, whimsical theming, and an emphasis on nature and adventure. The coaster’s track winds through dense foliage, rock formations, and water features, creating a sense of immersion as if riders are gliding through a hidden forest. The visual experience is enhanced by the coaster’s green color scheme, which blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment.

Wildwood Grove itself was inspired by Dolly Parton’s childhood memories of playing in the woods and letting her imagination run wild. It features several other family-friendly attractions, such as the Black Bear Trail, Mad Mockingbird, and Treetop Tower, making it an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a variety of attractions in a beautifully themed area. The Wildwood Tree, a towering structure at the heart of the grove, lights up with vibrant colors in the evening, serving as the focal point for the entire area.

Dragonflier's Appeal

Dragonflier’s appeal lies in its balance of excitement and accessibility. While it offers enough thrills to entertain more adventurous guests, its smooth transitions and moderate intensity level make it approachable for younger riders who may not yet be ready for Dollywood’s larger coasters like Lightning Rod or Tennessee Tornado. The suspended ride system also adds a unique sensation of flight that can’t be found on traditional seated coasters, making it a must-ride for visitors looking to experience something a little different.

In addition, the coaster’s compact yet creative layout ensures that every moment is filled with excitement, from the initial swooping drop to the final twisting turns. It’s a great introductory coaster for children and a fun experience for adults who appreciate the blend of thrilling elements and scenic beauty.

Tips for Riding Dragonflier

1. Timing: Try to ride Dragonflier earlier in the day to avoid long lines, as it’s a popular attraction in Wildwood Grove.
2. Best Seats: For a more intense ride, sit in the back rows, which provide a stronger sensation of being whipped around the turns. For a smoother, less intense experience, opt for the front rows.
3. Evening Rides: If possible, experience Dragonflier after sunset. The ride takes on a different character at night, with the surrounding lights and the illuminated Wildwood Tree adding a magical atmosphere.

Dragonflier is a fantastic addition to Dollywood’s lineup of attractions, offering a thrilling yet family-friendly experience that perfectly complements the park’s emphasis on nature, adventure, and fun. With its agile maneuvers, immersive theming, and smooth ride experience, Dragonflier is a must-ride for visitors exploring Wildwood Grove. Whether you’re a coaster enthusiast or a family looking for a ride that everyone can enjoy together, Dragonflier is sure to leave you feeling like you’ve taken flight through a magical forest.