Located in the town of Maggie Valley, the family destination takes visitors back to the Wild West and still features many of the park’s original rides and attractions, including the famous mile-high rollercoaster, and western exterior. Renovations include new rides, including a chair lift and restored incline railway, additional restaurants/concessions, special performance areas and historical and heritage-themed displays.

“We are very excited about the re-opening of Ghost Town,” says Scotty Medford Ellis, executive director of the Haywood County Tourism Development Authority. “With its new ownership and additions, we know it will continue to be a vital part of our community.”

Designed by RB Coburn, Ghost Town In The Sky was originally opened in May of 1961. The park operated for 41 years before closing in 2002. The 99-acre theme park was later purchased by Allen and Carol Harper, Peter Hairston and Hank Woodburn, operating as Ghost Town Partners LLC, and underwent a $4 million renovation to prepare for this May’s re-opening.

Visitors must travel on an incline at angles of up to 77 degrees, or they can use the chair lift, to get to the park. “The trip to get there is one of the most unique aspects of Ghost Town,” says David King, sales and marketing manager. “After the thrill of the incline, the views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Maggie Valley are beautiful and create a really unique atmosphere for a theme park.”

Ghost Town’s most legendary ride, the mile-high rollercoaster originally called Red Devil, has undergone safety renovations. It’s also got a new name, Cliff Hanger, and now sports a corn yellow track, chilli red cars and a navy blue terminal. The ride travels over the side of Buck Mountain at speeds of up to 56 mph.

A new addition is the Drop Tower ride, located at the top of the park. Ghost Town’s swings, meanwhile, give riders the sense they are swinging off the edge of the mountain. “Every aspect of the park is designed to showcase the mountain and offer a thrill unlike any other,” notes King.

A single area hosts the children’s rides, while Heritage Town Square features mining exhibits, as well as a new museum showcasing the park through the years. Entertainment including the live shows, gunfights, can-can dancers and Indians are also part of the Ghost Town experience.

Long-term development plans include possible additions of a waterpark, retail outlets, condominiums and homes.

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