Smoky Mountain Christmas Marred by Dollywood Ride Issues

Dollywood visitors have faced recent disruptions, notably the temporary closure of the beloved Dollywood Express heritage steam train. The park announced unscheduled maintenance for the train, apologizing for the inconvenience during the peak Smoky Mountain Christmas season. This closure, coupled with earlier park hour reductions due to forecasted cold temperatures, has led to guest frustration. The park's operations are sensitive to weather, as many rides have specific temperature cutoffs impacting their ability to run safely.

Last weekend, Dollywood significantly shortened its operating hours, closing between 6 pm and 9 pm or 10 pm. This measure was a response to low forecasted temperatures, which can compromise the safety of rides. Reports indicate that up to 22 rides may have temperature cutoffs, ranging from 39 degrees to as low as five degrees Fahrenheit.

The Dollywood Express, a five-mile scenic excursion through the Great Smoky Mountains, is a significant attraction. Its closure, especially during the Christmas holidays, has sparked considerable backlash on social media, with some visitors deeming it "absurdly ridiculous." Others, however, acknowledge the necessity of maintenance to ensure safety and prevent more severe issues.