WildSide in Pigeon Forge opens new mountain biking and UTV trails a week early

You can take a ride on the WildSide even earlier than originally expected. The new off-road and mountain bike adventure park has opened more than a week early in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Thrill-seekers can twist, turn, climb and drop across seven miles of mountain bike trails and eight miles of utility task vehicle trails at WildSide in Pigeon Forge beginning July 19, earlier than its original July 29 grand opening. Reservations for the adventure can be made now.

There are trails for all levels of experience, from beginners to seasoned pros.

“We are beyond excited to introduce WildSide to the Sevier County community and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere," WildSide President Bryce Bentz said in a news release. "Our park is not just about riding trails; it's about creating unforgettable experiences and pushing boundaries in the heart of one of America's most stunning natural landscapes."

The new outdoor park spans nearly 900 acres of untouched mountain land, and trails have up 1,500 feet of elevation change. The park is the brainchild of the creators behind Anakeesta, a nature immersive adventure park in Gatlinburg.

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When does WildSide open?

WildSide will have its first expeditions July 19. Reservations can be made now at wildsidetn.com.

The park is open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. seven days a week. It is located at 1105 Laurel Lick Road in Pigeon Forge.

How much are tickets and rentals at WildSide?

There are several options to enjoy the bike and UTV trails at WildSide.

• 1 day pedal pass: $19.99
• Annual pedal pass: $99.99
• Adult e-bike rental: $79.99
• Children’s e-bike rental: $59.99
• Pedal bike rental: $39.99
• UTV rentals: $279.99+

Can you bring your own bike or UTV to WildSide?

You can bring your own bike to ride the WildSide trails, but it must have at least one form of suspension and 24-inch wheels. Adaptive bikes are not allowed.

Personal UTVs are not allowed. WildSide will provide them.

Guests will need a driver's license, and those younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Kids ages 10 and older can have a chance to drive UTVs on a controlled track at the front of the property.

More adventures at WildSide

The park's welcome cabin feels like a ski resort base, where you can enjoy food and drinks while watching bikers ride down the mountain.

And with a shuttle pass, you can be shuttled up the mountain to bike or ride a UTV down the trails. Some of the trails lead to lookouts with views of the Smoky Mountains and East Tennessee.

The park has plans for expansion, including bringing trails to the highest peak of the property.

"We want people to get out in the mountains, and there's not many attractions in this area that focus on that," Bentz told Knox News earlier this year in an exclusive interview. "(We want) to really get people into that adventure mode.”

More information about WildSide is available at wildsidetn.com.

Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. Email devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com. On X, formerly known as Twitter @dturner1208. 

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