Black Bear Trail at Dollywood | Family Ride in Wildwood Grove

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In the vibrant Wildwood Grove area, Black Bear Trail offers a charming and peaceful journey where the forest creatures are always friendly. This mild thrill ride invites guests of all ages to climb onto the back of a playful black bear for a gentle glide through the beautiful backwoods of the Smokies. As you meander along the winding track to a joyful tune, you’ll discover hidden surprises near sparkling streams. This two-minute, discovery-laden experience is designed to be both safe and whimsical, serving as the perfect introduction to the wonders of the park for younger visitors and their families.

Ride Duration

2 Minutes

Quick Facts

• Park Area
  • Wildwood Grove
• Ride Type
  • Family
• Minimum Height
  • 36” height requirement
    • Riders under 42” must be accompanied by a person at least 14 years old.

• Maximum Height
  • N/A

Additional Information 

The Black Bear Trail is subject to closures during inclement weather conditions, including lightning, snow, extreme cold, or hot temperatures and high winds.

For additional information on attraction height requirements, please visit the official Dollywood website.

TimeSaver Pass Eligibility

Yes, Black Bear Trail has expedited line access with a TimeSaver Pass.

• Resort TimeSaver Pass
  • Yes, access is allowed as part of the five expedited entries for participating TimeSaver attractions.
• TimeSaver Pass
  • Yes, access is allowed as part of the five expedited entries for participating TimeSaver attractions.
• TimeSaver Plus Pass
  • Yes, unlimited TimeSaver entries
• TimeSaver Premium Pass
  • Yes, unlimited TimeSaver entries

Safety and Accessibility Information

Black Bear Trail is a mild thrill ride. 

Riders move slowly along a winding track in ride vehicles that resemble a bear. 

A single seatbelt is worn around the lap.

Rider Requirements

All Riders must have the ability to sit upright independently during the dynamic conditions of the ride.

Riders must have control of the upper torso, head and neck.

Riders should have the physical and cognitive ability to assist in their own evacuation in the event the ride vehicle stops in a location other than the loading position. 

Transfer Information

• ECV to Wheelchair Transfer
• Wheelchair Transfer to Ride
• Walk to Ride
• Riders may need companion assistance transferring to the ride vehicle.

Health Recommendations

Riders with the following conditions or any other condition that could be affected by the forces of this ride or that will prevent the rider from following all safety rules and guidelines must not ride:

• Heart Trouble
• High Blood Pressure
• Back Or Neck Injury
• Recent Injury Or Illness
• Pregnancy

Limb Requirements, Amputations and Prosthetics

Riders with prosthesis are required to disclose the existence of a prosthesis to a Black Bear Trail Ride Host prior to boarding.

Riders with one or two amputated legs above the knee may not ride.

Prosthesis must be removed before riding unless permanently attached.

Riders with one or two amputated legs below the knee may ride provided they have the ability to hold on with two functioning hands.

Riders with one amputated arm or hand, with or without prosthesis, may ride provided they have the ability to hold on with one natural hand and to brace themselves with two functioning legs.

For additional safety and accessibility information, please visit Dollywood’s official Accessibility and Rider Requirements Guide.

Loose Articles

All loose articles must be secured with a strap that sits across the chest. Purses and small bags secured around the individual’s shoulder or waist are permitted provided they are closed and do not interfere with the restraint system(s) and/or proper riding position or cause hazard to Guests, employees, and/or the attraction. Cellphones, cameras, and video equipment must be secured in an approved purse, bag, hip pack, or pocket and may not be used during the attraction cycle. Restricted articles must be placed in the designated storage area or left with a non-rider. Hats with brims (such as cowboy hats and boonie hats) and visors may not be worn and must be secured or left with a non-rider. Baseball style caps may be worn provided they are worn with the bill turned to the back of the head. Individuals wearing headcover for religious reasons may be asked secure it to their head or shoulders, however, any heavy, large, or brimmed religious headwear is not permitted. Dollywood is not responsible for articles that are lost, damaged, or stolen.

Parent Swap

Dollywood’s Parent Swap program, also known as Rider Switch, allows families with children who do not meet ride height requirements to enjoy select attractions without waiting in line twice. All members of the group enter the ride through the regular Guest line, where a Ride Host will assist with the Parent Swap process. One adult remains in a designated, secure waiting area with the non-rider while the rest of the group boards the attraction. After the first ride cycle, adults switch places so the waiting adult can ride. On select attractions, additional group members may be permitted to ride again. All Guests exit the attraction together following the Parent Swap experience.

Strollers and loose articles are not permitted.

Now that you know exactly what to expect from the Black Bear Trail, it’s time to map out your day! Don’t waste time waiting in line—we’ve got the tools to help you budget, save time, and book your stay.

📌 Need a Plan? See exactly how to fit the Black Bear Trail into your day with our Ultimate 1-Day Dollywood Itinerary.

⌚ Worried about Long Lines? Find out if the TimeSaver Pass is worth the cost in Your Guide to the Dollywood TimeSaver Pass