Tennessee Tornado is a steel roller coaster located at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Manufactured by Arrow Dynamics, it opened in 1999 and is known for its intense, smooth ride experience and thrilling inversions. The coaster features a 163-foot drop into a tunnel and reaches speeds up to 63 mph. With a total track length of 2,682 feet, the ride includes three inversions: a 110-foot vertical loop, a "spiro loop," and a sidewinder inversion, all of which contribute to its dynamic and exhilarating course. Designed to blend into the natural mountainous terrain, Tennessee Tornado offers riders both breathtaking views and a heart-pounding adventure.
Tennessee Tornado is exciting due to its combination of speed, inversions, terrain, and unique design elements. Here’s what contributes to its thrill:
- Massive Drop: The ride begins with a steep 163-foot drop, which sends riders into a tunnel, creating an immediate adrenaline rush as they plunge into darkness.
- High Speed: With speeds reaching up to 63 mph, the coaster offers an intense and fast-paced experience that keeps riders on the edge of their seats.
- Intense Inversions: Tennessee Tornado features three thrilling inversions, including a 110-foot vertical loop, a "spiro loop" (a unique twisting loop), and a sidewinder inversion. These maneuvers create strong G-forces that give riders a mix of weightlessness and intense pressure.
- Smooth Transitions: Designed by Arrow Dynamics, the coaster provides surprisingly smooth transitions through its elements, allowing riders to fully enjoy the excitement of each twist, turn, and loop without discomfort.
- Mountainous Terrain: The ride is integrated into the natural mountainous landscape of Dollywood, using the terrain to enhance the feeling of speed and surprise. The dive into the wooded area and tunnel adds to the ride’s unpredictability.
- Theming and Atmosphere: The coaster is themed to resemble a runaway storm, complete with a tornado motif. The atmospheric buildup before boarding heightens the anticipation, making the ride feel like a whirlwind adventure.
These elements combine to create an exhilarating roller coaster experience that is both fast and full of surprises.
Tennessee Tornado stands out for its unique use of the natural terrain, plunging riders through a 128-foot drop into a mountain tunnel. Reaching speeds of up to 63 mph, the ride features three intense inversions, including a large vertical loop and a spiraling finale. Known for its smooth, fast-paced experience and exciting elements, the Tennessee Tornado remains a favorite for both coaster enthusiasts and park visitors.