Visitors to Dolly Parton's famed Dollywood theme park in Tennessee have been left frustrated and disappointed after a series of operational setbacks, culminating in the immediate closure of a beloved heritage ride.
Popular Steam Train Grinds to a Halt
The park confirmed over the weekend that the Dollywood Express, a classic steam train offering a scenic five-mile mountain excursion, has been temporarily shut down. The closure is due to unscheduled maintenance, forcing the attraction out of action during the busy Smoky Mountain Christmas season.
In a statement shared on social media, the park apologised for the inconvenience, stating: 'We are sorry for the inconvenience. We hope you will enjoy all of Dollywood's other award-winning rides and attractions during Smoky Mountain Christmas.' The 20-minute train ride is promoted for its 'pastoral scenery' and stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains foothills.
Visitor Backlash on Social Media
The announcement sparked an immediate and angry reaction from would-be passengers on the park's official Facebook page. Many labelled the timing as 'absurdly ridiculous', particularly on a prime Saturday during the festive period.
One disappointed guest vented: 'How inconsiderate a lot of folks, especially senior citizens in the park. That's the one thing they can ride and enjoy. Not to mention the train is promoted so much on social media and billboards. Absurdly ridiculous.'
Another, who had purchased season passes specifically for the train, pleaded: 'Please get this fixed ASAP. We bought season passes so we could take him just for the train. Please don't wait till the off season to fix it.'
However, some commenters defended the park's decision, with one noting: 'I'd rather they work to resolve the issue than have passengers stuck on it in the back 40 and have to hike it back to the park.'
Latest in a Series of Seasonal Setbacks
This disruption follows another recent issue for the park, which saw operating hours slashed on December 14 due to forecasted low temperatures. The park closed at 6pm instead of its usual 9pm or 10pm finish.
As reported by Inside the Magic, cold weather can compromise ride safety, affecting rollercoaster wheels, brakes, and hydraulic systems. Dollywood has 22 rides with specific temperature cutoffs, ranging from 39 degrees Fahrenheit down to just five degrees.
Located in Pigeon Forge within the Knoxville metropolitan area, the park, co-owned by Herschend Family Entertainment and Dolly Parton, welcomes nearly three million guests in a typical season running from mid-March to the Christmas holidays.
