Dollywood executives give sneak peak of NightFlight Expedition

Touting it as the first ride of its kind in the world, Dollywood executives introduced the NightFlight Expedition as its newest attraction at a Thursday press briefing.

The aviation-based adventure will be indoors in the park’s Wildwood Grove section in a 44,000 square foot facility. Dollywood President Eugene Naughton said the European company that designed the attraction has mixed four distinct adventures into one ride-aboard a plane flying over the Great Smoky Mountains, on a raft plunging raging rapids, climb one of the highest peaks then speed down the mountain into a hike to find a special lake.

Park inspiration and Country Music Hall of Famer Dolly Parton made an appearance via a recorded message, explaining she was grounded under doctor’s orders after having a bout with kidney stones. Dolly noted NightFlight Expedition is the most expensive ride ever constructed in the park.

(IMAGE: Dollywood / Official Facebook)