Dollywood

Lightning Rod

Jukebox Junction
Roller Coaster
★ ★ ★

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The world's first launched wooden roller coaster, the $22 million Lightning Rod opened officially June 13, 2016. Built by Rocky Mountain Construction, Lightning Rod features a 45mph launch and a top speed of 70 mph.

Reviews of Lightning Rod

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Among the very best of its type anywhere
Above average, but not quite the very best
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Among the bottom 25 percent of its type

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This is an incredible ride. I considered this my favourite of my 4-park trip covering Carowinds, Busch Gardens and Kings Dominion on top of Dollywood. Relentless momentum. The final act builds and builds, tricking you into believing that surely, it cannot get any faster or more intense. But it does. Again and again. The ride integrates beautifully into the mountainous landscape and keeps you guessing around every turn. A 5-star attraction. Bonus points when it's raining.

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