As cooler autumn temperatures begin to settle across the Smoky Mountains, Dollywood has confirmed the early closure of two of its popular water attractions for the remainder of the 2026 operating season. Daredevil Falls and Smoky Mountain River Rampage have ceased operations, effective October 18. This decision impacts the seasonal availability of these specific rides.
The closure was initially announced via Dollywood's official Instagram story, @dollywood, late last week. The statement from the park indicated, “Starting on Saturday, Oct. 18, Daredevil Falls and Smoky Mountain River Rampage will be closed for the rest of the Dollywood operating season.” However, October 18, 2026, falls on a Sunday. By that Sunday, the park's website had updated its status for both rides, marking them as “CURRENTLY CLOSED FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE 2026 SEASON,” thereby confirming their cessation of operation for the year.
It is important for visitors to note that while these two water rides are done for the season, the Dollywood property itself is not shutting down. The broader theme park, along with its associated accommodations, Dollywood's DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood's HeartSong Lodge & Resort, will continue to host its full schedule of fall and winter events.
Currently, the park is immersed in its annual Harvest Festival & Great Pumpkin LumiNights. This family-friendly celebration features various autumn-themed activities and light displays. The Harvest Festival & Great Pumpkin LumiNights is scheduled to conclude on October 31, marking the end of the fall festivities.
This season also brought a new attraction for Halloween enthusiasts: Harvey's Boo Bash. This event marks the first ticketed after-hours Halloween celebration Dollywood has ever offered. Designed as a limited-capacity event, Harvey's Boo Bash allows guests to experience treat trails, participate in dance parties, enjoy themed snacks, ride attractions under the stars, and engage in character meet-and-greets with Harvey and other friends. Only two dates remain for those wishing to attend this exclusive nighttime celebration: October 23 and October 30.
Following the conclusion of the Harvest Festival and the Halloween events, Dollywood will transition into its highly anticipated annual Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration. This festive event will encompass the entire property, beginning on November 6. The Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration is slated to run through the end of the park's operating season on January 3, 2027. Despite the early closure of its water attractions, the park ensures a full calendar of themed events and entertainment will continue for both residents and visitors throughout the remainder of 2026 and into early 2027.
