Dolly Parton Confirms That From Now On, Dollywood Will Never Be the Same
Dollywood is eliminating coal from its historic steam train after more than six decades, fundamentally changing an experience that’s defined the Tennessee theme park since before Dolly Parton owned it.
The park announced February 24 that the Dollywood Express will convert to oil burning, ending 64 years of coal-powered operation dating to 1961. WGN News reporter Marcus Leshock posted the announcement on X (formerly known as Twitter):
JUST IN: @Dollywood’s trains are being converted from coal burning to oil burning, per multiple reports from media day today.
That means no more cinders flying at you while riding, and the park says it will help with operation.
Will you miss that signature burning coal smell?
JUST IN: @Dollywood’s trains are being converted from coal burning to oil burning, per multiple reports from media day today.
That means no more cinders flying at you while riding, and the park says it will help with operation.
Will you miss that signature burning coal smell? pic.twitter.com/mjgVaOeTl6
— Marcus Leshock (@marcusleshock) February 24, 2026
The conversion eliminates defining characteristics of the train ride: the distinctive burning coal smell and flying cinders that were part of the authentic steam locomotive experience. Dollywood says the oil-burning engine reduces maintenance, lowers pollution, and improves operations during poor weather.
The Dollywood Express has required several extended maintenance closures in recent years, suggesting the aging coal system created operational challenges.
64-Year History Ends
The steam train launched in 1961 as the star attraction when Rebel Railroad opened in Pigeon Forge. The park changed hands and names—Gold Rush Junction in 1966, Silver Dollar City, Tennessee, in 1976—before Dolly Parton became the majority owner.
Parton preserved the coal-powered train and renamed it the Dollywood Express. It’s operated continuously since, making it one of the park’s oldest attractions. Dollywood removed cosmetic balloon stacks in 2004 that had given the locomotive a Western appearance. The fuel switch is the most dramatic transformation of the train since it began operating 64 years ago, altering a core element of what made the Dollywood Express an authentic steam railroad experience.
Dollywood remains closed for the off-season. The park reopens next month with the “I Will Always Love You” Music Festival.
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