Tennessee Is Home to North America’s Longest Treetop Skywalk — And It Glows at Night

Hidden in the Smoky Mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, sits an attraction that feels like walking through the clouds. Anakeesta’s Treetop Skywalk stretches across 16 suspension bridges, making it the longest treetop experience in North America.

During the day, you’ll enjoy stunning forest views, but when the sun sets, the entire walkway transforms into a glowing pathway that lights up the night sky.

Where Anakeesta Is Located

Anakeesta sits right in the heart of Gatlinburg at 576 Parkway, making it super easy to find. You can spot it from the main strip of town, nestled against the beautiful Smoky Mountains. The park sits on top of a mountain, which means you’ll need to take a ride up to reach all the attractions.

Getting there is half the fun since you have multiple options. Most visitors choose the scenic chairlift ride that takes about 13 minutes. If you’re not comfortable with open-air rides, you can hop on an enclosed gondola instead or take a shuttle bus up the mountain.

The location puts you right in the middle of Gatlinburg’s tourist area. You can easily walk to Anakeesta from nearby hotels and restaurants. Parking is available at the base, though it does cost extra during busy seasons.

How the Treetop Skywalk Works

Walking among the treetops might sound scary, but the Skywalk is actually built for everyone. The bridges connect from tree to tree using sturdy cables and wooden platforms. Each section has safety railings on both sides, so you always feel secure while crossing.

The walkway gently sways as you move, which adds a little thrill without being too intense. Even older family members and those nervous about heights usually manage just fine. The bouncy feeling makes you laugh and adds to the adventure, according to visitors who’ve tried it.

The entire experience is self-guided, meaning there’s no rush or time limit. The path is wide enough for people to pass each other comfortably, though it helps to be patient during crowded times.

The 16 Hanging Bridges Explained

Sixteen separate bridges make up North America’s longest treetop walking experience. Each bridge connects to platforms wrapped around massive trees, creating a continuous path through the canopy. The bridges vary in length and height, offering different perspectives as you progress through the course.

Some bridges stretch longer than others, giving you extended time floating above the forest floor. The wooden planks beneath your feet are spaced just right so you can see down but still feel stable. Strong cables and rope work together to support the walkway while allowing that signature gentle sway.

Every bridge offers something unique to see or experience. You might spot wildlife, enjoy mountain views, or simply appreciate being surrounded by nature from a totally different angle. The design ensures that even on busy days, the bridges handle crowds safely without feeling overcrowded or unstable.

How High Up Are You?

The Treetop Skywalk sits high enough to give you amazing views but not so high that it feels terrifying. You’ll be walking among the upper branches of mature forest trees, typically ranging from 40 to 60 feet above the ground. That’s about as tall as a four or five-story building.

The height changes as you move through different sections of the course. Some bridges sit lower where the terrain rises, while others stretch higher where the land drops away. This variation keeps the experience interesting and gives you different viewpoints of the surrounding Smoky Mountains.

Most people find the height exciting rather than frightening. The solid railings and wide walkway help you feel secure even when you look down. If you’re afraid of heights, many visitors report that the experience actually helped them overcome their fears because everything feels so safe and well-maintained throughout the entire walk.

Best Time to Visit (Day vs. Night)

Daytime visits offer crystal-clear views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding forest. You can see the details of leaves, spot birds flying by, and really appreciate the natural beauty around you. The sunlight filtering through the trees creates gorgeous photo opportunities, especially during fall when the leaves change colors.

Nighttime transforms the Skywalk into something magical. Thousands of lights illuminate the bridges, making the entire path glow against the dark sky. The forest becomes quieter and more peaceful after sunset, giving you a completely different atmosphere than daytime visits offer.

Many visitors recommend experiencing both if possible. Some families buy all-day tickets so they can leave for dinner and return after dark.

Tickets, Hours & Visitor Tips

Anakeesta opens at 9 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, and 10 AM Sunday through Thursday, staying open until 9 PM daily. Buying tickets online in advance saves time and sometimes money compared to purchasing at the gate. Annual passes are worth considering if you plan to visit twice within a year, plus they give you express lane access for the chairlift going up.

Expect long wait times during peak seasons, sometimes up to two hours for the chairlift. Arriving 30 minutes before opening helps you beat the crowds. The shuttle bus often has shorter lines than the chairlift, so consider that option during busy periods.

Wear comfortable walking shoes since you’ll be on your feet exploring. Bring a light jacket even in summer because mountain temperatures drop at night. The Treetop Skywalk is included with general admission, making it an excellent value considering everything else Anakeesta offers.

What Else to Do at Anakeesta

Beyond the Treetop Skywalk, Anakeesta packs in tons of family-friendly activities. The mountain coaster lets you control your speed as you zip down the mountainside. Astra Lumina offers an enchanted illuminated forest walk that’s perfect for evening visits.

Several restaurants serve reasonably priced food, from casual bites to sit-down meals. Beautiful gardens showcase native plants and offer peaceful spots to rest. A tower climb takes you to the highest point in Gatlinburg for unbeatable panoramic views of the area.

With so much to explore, most families easily spend an entire day here without running out of things to do or see.