Skyland Ranch Review: Is the Chairlift Admission Worth It?

So, you are considering a trip to Pigeon Forge, and Skyland Ranch has, maybe, caught your eye? You know, that place with the chairlift that whisks folks up the mountain? Perhaps you’re pondering if the admission, including the chairlift, is, very, well worth the money? I went ahead and spent a whole day there, just so I could give you the scoop. This is, in a way, my full, pretty honest, take on whether it lives up to all the hype, and to what extent, so that you can plan a really awesome trip.

First Impressions: Getting to Skyland Ranch

Ok, so getting there is, basically, pretty straightforward. It’s right on the main Parkway in Pigeon Forge, that strip, I mean, is very, well-known for its attractions. Finding parking can be, seemingly, a little tricky sometimes, mostly depending on the time of day and how many other people are also there, of course. I showed up around mid-morning, yet, it was already quite packed, I mean, so I had to park a little further back, and it wasn’t really that big of a deal, anyway. Once you are finally inside, the layout of the ranch is very, sort of, intuitive, and all the staff are nice enough to help point you where you want to go.

The Chairlift Ride: Views and Thrills

The chairlift ride is the star attraction, wouldn’t you say? That is, clearly, the first thing most people want to know. Gliding up the mountainside is, arguably, one of the better ways to start off your visit. It’s, in some respects, a leisurely ride, yet offering some amazing views of the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge. The chairs are very, actually, comfy and feel pretty secure, that I know. It is that slight fear you get at first that enhances it all that more, really. For me, anyway. The trip up wasn’t very long, but the view got much better the further up the slope it went. Once you are at the summit, well, you can catch your breath and just take in the sight before you move along to all the other adventures that wait.

Attractions and Activities at the Top

Skyland Ranch has plenty of different things to keep everybody happy once you get to the top, I will say. There’s, basically, a pretty cool animal encounter, which is a favorite with the kids – getting up close and personal with miniature cows, donkeys, goats, that type of creature. I, for one, enjoy strolling around the various shops, where they have many gifts, and different homemade crafts are displayed for anyone. Eating options are offered, everything from snack stands to full-blown restaurants, but, honestly, expect things to be somewhat pricier. And the views from up top? That’s the main draw. Several different seating spots were present, offering different viewpoints for different folks.

Dining Options: What to Expect

Ok, so, let’s talk food, right? You know, something you might actually care about. Skyland Ranch tries to cater to everyone, and as such, provides some various food options. You might prefer a fast-food kind of place that offers stuff like burgers and fries. You could just take the slightly different route of snack stands which are available, you will see ice cream, funnel cakes, just simple pleasures. A few people bring their own food to avoid some prices. So you are aware, expect theme park rates in a theme park-ish establishment, but, I mean, the food tasted pretty good and they offer something for pretty much everyone.

Is Skyland Ranch Worth the Cost? A Final Thought

Right, so is Skyland Ranch, with the chairlift admission, genuinely worth your hard-earned cash? Is it just hype, you might think? Well, it sort of depends, and is subjective to that of whom visits, clearly. For families with young kids, this tends to be a bit of a hit. The animals, open spaces and the chairlift itself provide plenty to do. Yet, for adults or older teens, one day may be a good length of time here. The views, actually, really are beautiful, I will admit, and the chairlift trip does provide some experiences that will get lodged into one’s memory, more or less. But, I mean, is it a great value? Maybe not entirely. There is a good mix of different activities at a price that you need to make an informed decision before going through with it.

Tips for Visiting Skyland Ranch

• Plan to Arrive Early: It is, actually, very busy, and if you wish to sidestep some long lines for all different attractions and things, you may have to get here as the location opens, as a matter of fact.
• Consider Off-Season Visits: The fall and spring are not bad, just less visitors, typically. I am pretty certain you will have just as great of experience as well.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: So you can move easily while moving all around on the ground since you will likely walk quite a ways, pretty much.
• Check for Discounts: Verify on some different websites such as Groupon or others for some different price cuts and money saving experiences.
• Stay Hydrated: A ton of different places on-site sell drinks. Remember to keep well-hydrated while going to different locales so you can maintain peak health.