News: Dollywood to expand waterpark in 2005

Posted at 3:40 PM EDT (1940 GMT)

Jul. 27th, 2004 -- Press Release courtesy of Dollywood

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 26, 2004--Dollywood's Splash Country guests can soon climb to new heights of fun and adventure with the addition of Bear Mountain Fire Tower, a new $2 million interactive, multi-level water-filled attraction scheduled to open in 2005.

Themed in the spirit of the many fire towers that dot the East Tennessee landscape, Bear Mountain Fire Tower will be located adjacent to Big Bear Plunge which opened in July. Each level of Bear Mountain Fire Tower will feature various water-based activities including a 1,000-gallon bucket situated atop the highest level. After warning bells sound indicating that a fire has been spotted, the large bucket spills, setting off a chain reaction of subsequent, smaller buckets throughout the lower levels creating a four-alarm soaking for the entire family.

"Bear Mountain Fire Tower is unlike anything we've ever done at Dollywood's Splash Country," said General Manager Gene Scherrer. "Guests will be drawn to it visually because of the tower's bright colors and multi-level design. Upon closer inspection, they'll discover the fun, inviting atmosphere that appeals to every member of the family."

Part of a five-acre expansion project, construction for Bear Mountain Fire Tower gets under way in September.

Bear Mountain Fire Tower's fire fighting theme is complete with hand cannons, hoses and buckets which allow every member of the family to engage in some friendly, water-based exchanges. Sliding poles, escape chutes and ladders are just a few of the tower's many other fun-filled attractions.

The area also introduces another restaurant to Dollywood's Splash Country with the addition of the Brushfire Grill featuring a variety of food selections.

Opened in 2001, Dollywood's Splash Country is a 27-acre water park located adjacent to Dollywood family adventure park. Situated in a lush, wooded mountain setting, Dollywood's Splash Country features a 25,000-square-foot wave pool; the Lazy River; two interactive children's play areas and 17 water adventure slides. The water park operates Memorial Day weekend through mid September. For more information, visit Dollywood's Splash Country Official Site.