Pigeon Forge has become a favorite summer spot for families who want fun, excitement, and a break from the usual routine. Located in the Smoky Mountains, it offers all kinds of attractions. But when the weather heats up, Dollywood’s Splash Country stands out.
Planning ahead helps you get the most from your trip. From thrilling rides to calm float zones, Splash Country has something for everyone. But it can be hard to know where to begin, especially if it’s your first visit. This guide walks you through everything you need to know—from top rides and height rules to when to show up for short lines. Let’s break it down.
What’s New and What to Expect in 2025
This season, Splash Country brings back all its favorite rides with the same excitement it’s known for. Whether you’re into big drops or gentle slides, there’s a ride that fits. The park opens in early May and runs into late September, giving you months of chances to plan a trip.
Opening day is May 10th, and the season wraps up on September 21st. Since the weather can change fast in the mountains, the full calendar is important. Checking the park’s official schedule can help you pick a day with fewer crowds and more fun.
Thrill Seekers, Start Here
If fast slides and steep drops sound fun, Dollywood’s Splash Country delivers. Fire Tower Falls is the tallest ride at the park—70 feet of nearly straight drop. It’s fast and intense. It’s also the one ride where you’ll want to make sure your swimsuit is secure.
Mountain Scream gives you options. You can go for a twisting tunnel slide or a quadruple-drop open slide. Either way, it’s a solid thrill.
RiverRush is also a top choice. It’s a water coaster, which means you get the thrill of a roller coaster but with water splashes and turns. It’s not just fast—it’s one of the most popular rides in the entire park.
Great Picks for Groups and Families
If you’re visiting with kids or just want to ride together, Splash Country has several group-friendly rides. Big Bear Plunge is perfect for families or friends who want to stick together. You ride in a raft with others, twist through turns, and finish with a fun splash.
Raging River Rapids is another good option. It’s also designed for group rafting, with smooth drops and wide turns. This is a great ride for anyone who’s nervous about going solo. Most riders end up loving it and want to go again.
Race to the Bottom for Some Fun
Some rides at Splash Country are built for speed and competition. TailSpin Racer stands out. It’s a five-story slide longer than a football field. You race down side-by-side with others, starting in an enclosed tunnel and ending in a fast drop.
Slick Rock Racer is another fast option. You go face-first on a mat down three quick drops. It’s fun, fast, and the line usually moves quicker than other rides. That makes it perfect when the park is crowded.
Mountain Twist gives you a mix of fun and speed. You also ride face-first on a mat, twisting through curves. It has three lanes, so small groups can race together. Each lane is different, which makes it fun to ride more than once.
Good Options for First-Time Riders
If you’re not ready for the biggest slides, you still have plenty to enjoy. The Butterfly is a gentler version of Fire Tower Falls. It’s still a drop, but it’s shorter and less intense. It’s a great way to build confidence.
Wild River Falls is smooth and lets you pick between solo or two-person tubes. It’s a nice ride to ease into water slides.
Mountain Twist also works for cautious riders. The ride is fun without being too wild, and you can ride it with friends for support.
Then there’s The Cascades, a lagoon-style pool with waterfalls, geysers, and small slides. There’s also a lot of deck space around it, which makes it one of the best places to relax while the kids play nearby.
Play Areas Designed Just for Young Kids
Families with toddlers or younger children will find plenty to do here. Bear Mountain Fire Tower is built for younger kids, with smaller slides and hands-on water features. A huge bucket dumps water from above every few minutes, which always gets a big reaction.
Little Creek Falls is another go-to area. It includes a shallow pool, soft play elements, and a shaded section where parents can keep an eye on their kids. It’s especially nice on hotter days when you want sun protection.
These areas are also well-designed for adult supervision. You can let kids explore while you sit close by, which makes for a low-stress experience.
Understand Height Rules Before You Go
Knowing the ride height rules ahead of time can help you plan better. Some of the biggest rides, like Fire Tower Falls, require riders to be at least 48 inches tall. That’s also the case for Mountain Scream, SwiftWater Run, and The Butterfly.
Other rides, like TailSpin Racer and RiverRush, have a 42-inch minimum. Group rides such as Big Bear Plunge, Mountain Twist, and Raging River Rapids require a minimum of 36 inches, and kids under 48 inches must ride with someone 16 or older.
There are no height limits for areas like Mountain Waves, The Cascades, Bear Mountain Fire Tower, Downbound Float Trip, and Little Creek Falls, though adult supervision may still be needed. Checking the ride list before you go helps avoid surprises at the gate.
Dollywood’s Splash Country offers a mix of high-energy rides and low-key zones, all in a clean and family-friendly setting. Whether you’re visiting with kids or chasing your next thrill, there’s something for everyone.
By knowing the ride options, checking height limits, and showing up with a plan, you’ll enjoy a smoother day at the park. Add a little patience, sunscreen, and water shoes, and you’re set. Pigeon Forge is the place to be this summer—and Splash Country makes it even better.
