Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – Dollywood, the award-winning theme park co-founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, has announced its most ambitious project yet. The park will introduce Hidden Hollow Aviation, a groundbreaking indoor attraction opening in 2026, marking the largest single investment in Dollywood’s history at $50 million.
The highly anticipated reveal will take place on September 17 at 11 a.m., when Dolly Parton herself will officially share details about the new ride. For months, fans have speculated about the nature of the project, piecing together clues from Dollywood’s teasers. The wait is nearly over, and expectations are higher than ever.
A Ride Unlike Any Other
Hidden Hollow Aviation will set itself apart from Dollywood’s traditional roller coasters and outdoor thrill rides. Instead, it promises to deliver an immersive flight experience over the Smoky Mountains, blending scenic beauty with cutting-edge technology. Teasers suggest guests will soar through the skies, glide past mountain peaks, and even plunge into a hidden lake, creating a sensory adventure unlike anything currently in the U.S.
The entrance is rumored to be through the Wildwood Tree in Dollywood’s Wildwood Grove section, enhancing the sense of storytelling and discovery. Promotional visuals released by the park hint at breathtaking landscapes and magical backdrops, fueling excitement within the theme park community.
Adventure for All Ages
Designed to be family-friendly, the new attraction will feature a low height requirement, ensuring younger guests can join in the fun. Promotional language emphasizes action words such as soaring, plunging, navigating, and climbing, suggesting a thrilling yet approachable adventure.
Dollywood’s President, Eugene Naughton, described the project as one of the park’s boldest undertakings to date. He noted that Hidden Hollow Aviation will operate indoors, making it one of Dollywood’s first major all-weather attractions.
“This addition gives us the chance to provide year-round experiences for our guests, no matter the season,” Naughton shared, underlining the park’s vision to transform into a destination that thrives beyond its current seasonal schedule.
A Storyline with Mystery
Adding depth to the attraction is a mysterious backstory featuring Ned Oakley, a fictional fourth-generation wilderness explorer. Oakley is said to be on a mission to uncover the truth about Big Bear, a mythical creature believed to roam the Smoky Mountains.
This narrative ties into Dollywood’s tradition of weaving rich storytelling into its attractions. Fans speculate that Oakley’s journey will intertwine with the ride’s adventure, blending myth and exploration. Early theories suggest the ride may resemble European flight-based attractions, but with Dollywood’s signature Appalachian twist.
The addition of folklore and mystery enhances the ride’s appeal, creating an experience that is both entertaining and immersive. Whether Big Bear appears as a central feature or a hidden surprise, the story promises to capture the imagination of guests of all ages.
A Year-Round Destination
Hidden Hollow Aviation also aligns with Dollywood’s broader strategy of becoming a year-round destination. Currently, the park operates seasonally, with closures during winter months. By introducing an indoor, climate-controlled ride, Dollywood gains a major attraction that can operate regardless of weather.
This move brings Dollywood in line with other leading theme parks that operate year-round, further strengthening its position as one of the top theme parks in the United States. For visitors, this means more flexibility in planning trips to the Smoky Mountains, even during colder months.
Boosting Tourism and Regional Appeal
The $50 million investment is not just a milestone for Dollywood but also a major boost for Tennessee tourism. Dollywood is already a key driver of regional economic growth, attracting millions of visitors annually to Pigeon Forge. The addition of Hidden Hollow Aviation is expected to draw even larger crowds, including international visitors seeking unique, family-oriented experiences.
With its combination of thrills, storytelling, and all-weather accessibility, the new attraction will enhance Dollywood’s appeal and further solidify the Smoky Mountains as a premier vacation destination.
The Countdown to September 17
As the reveal date approaches, anticipation continues to build among fans, theme park enthusiasts, and the wider travel community. Online forums and social media groups have been buzzing with speculation, with many predicting that Hidden Hollow Aviation could redefine the family ride experience in the U.S.
Once Dolly Parton steps onto the stage to unveil the details, the speculation will finally end. The world will learn exactly what makes Hidden Hollow Aviation a historic milestone for Dollywood.
Conclusion
The upcoming Hidden Hollow Aviation attraction is set to become a defining moment in Dollywood’s history. With its blend of cutting-edge ride technology, immersive storytelling, and year-round accessibility, it represents both the park’s boldest investment and its most family-inclusive experience to date.
As Dollywood looks toward 2026, this new addition underscores the park’s commitment to innovation while staying true to its Appalachian roots. Guests can look forward to a soaring adventure that captures the beauty, mystery, and spirit of the Smoky Mountains – all while celebrating the enduring vision of Dolly Parton.
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