By Jim Watson

If you've never been to Dollywood, now is the time to pack up the family and head to East Tennessee and Dollywood's newest attraction, Adventure Mountain.

Since 1986 Dollywood has thrilled visitors of all ages with rides, shows, and shopping. This year, in celebration of the park's 25th anniversary, Dollywood is opening Adventure Mountain, America's largest challenge course. Families can experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains while enjoying this exciting obstacle course which features something for all ages and skill levels.

Adventure for Everyone

The littlest adventurers will love having their very own course designed just for them. Children as young as two will feel a big-kid sense of accomplishment as they work their way through these pint-sized obstacles. Parents can relax knowing their little ones are safe on the ground level of Camp Teachittoomee.

For the older kids, Adventure Mountain has three courses ranging from easy to difficult. They'll spend as much as an hour climbing ropes, swinging from hanging beams, trekking across a suspension bridge, and more. Each course offers its own unique challenges, so teens will never be bored and the younger ones will never be frustrated.

The beginner course, Geyser Gorge, challenges hikers to blaze a trail through a geyser strewn field. Next up is Black Bear Cliff, a narrow rock ledge that only the bravest of souls will dare take on. For the truly adventurous, Rocky Top Trail offers rope bridges that will make your blood run cold – but the view from the top is well worth the fright. Are you courageous enough to go all the way?

With more than 100 obstacles, Adventure Mountain will be a hit with youngsters from two to 82. Course highlights such as suspension bridges, flying islands, and a tire traverse will keep kids and adults entertained for hours. Start out on the easy course and work your way up to the most difficult, or head right for Rocky Top Trail if you're feeling fearless.

Come Prepared

Adventure Mountain is a thrill for all ages. In order to ensure your safety, Dollywood asks that you dress appropriately. That means no open-toed shoes and no slides. Tennis shoes are a good choice. Kids should be at least 42 inches tall, and must be accompanied by someone 16 years of age or older.

Other Great Attractions

Dollywood offers more than just obstacle course adventures. You'll also find relaxation among the flora and fauna of the Great Smoky Mountains when you take a ride on the Dollywood Express. If water is more your style, the Smoky Mountain River Rampage recreates a whitewater rafting trip in the comfort of the park. For a more breathtaking thrill ride, be sure to check out Mystery Mine, where there may - or may not - be a light at the end of the tunnel.

No matter what level of adventure you seek, Dollywood has just what you're looking for. With entertainment that runs the gamut from roller coasters to musical extravaganzas to the new Adventure Mountain, Dollywood is truly a family fun park.