Investigation at Dolly Parton’s Dollywood After Shocking Employee Incident
Dollywood, one of the most celebrated regional theme parks in the U.S., is facing scrutiny following a workplace incident that left an employee seriously injured earlier this year. The Tennessee park, known for its Smoky Mountain charm and connection to country icon Dolly Parton, has built a reputation on family-friendly thrills and Southern hospitality.
Since opening in 1986, Dollywood has evolved into a major tourism driver for Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. With over 50 rides, shows, and attractions, including award-winning coasters like Lightning Rod and Big Bear Mountain, it regularly competes with larger national players. The park’s immersive atmosphere—blending craftsman villages, live music, and regional food—has helped it stand apart. Dollywood has even announced plans to open its most ambitious attraction yet in 2026: a five-story indoor experience called Hidden Hollow Aviation.
Still, as the park continues to grow, it hasn’t been immune to operational mishaps.
TOSHA Investigation Reveals Safety Violations
In March 2024, a Dollywood employee was injured while adjusting a belt on Smoky Mountain River Rampage, one of the park’s longstanding water attractions. According to a report by the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA), the employee’s jacket became caught in a rotating coupling. His left arm was pulled into the machinery, and the injury was severe enough that he had to be airlifted for emergency treatment.
TOSHA launched an investigation and later issued two serious citations. The first violation concerned unguarded pulleys on the ride’s motor-driven boat lift. The second pointed to shaft couplings that were not designed to prevent entanglement from bolts, nuts, setscrews, or rotating surfaces. These components were located within one foot of where employees performed regular maintenance, heightening the risk of injury.
Dollywood was fined $6,400—$3,200 for each violation—and was ordered to correct the issues by June 30. A spokesperson confirmed to 6 News that “the incident has been settled.”
Smoky Mountain River Rampage, built by Intamin, is Dollywood’s whitewater rapids ride, featuring six-person rafts and unpredictable soaking splashes. The ride has long been a summer staple, though this latest incident raises new questions about safety protocols behind the scenes.
A Pattern of Isolated Incidents
The March accident isn’t the first safety-related issue to occur at Dollywood, where guests have recently complained that bad smells are permeating the theme park.
In July 2020, a craftsman was injured in the Mountain Blown Glass Shop. Just one day earlier, a decorative chain fell near the Mystery Mine attraction, injuring three guests. Two were hospitalized.
More recently, the park has faced extreme weather-related disruptions. A flash flood in July 2024 submerged several cars and forced guests to wade through water. The year before, a water main break temporarily closed the park. While not all incidents have stemmed from operational faults, they’ve contributed to a growing list of unexpected challenges.
Still, Dollywood remains one of the most beloved theme parks in the country, thanks in large part to its blend of nostalgia, thrill rides, and regional storytelling. The brand continues to expand – with new rides, resorts, and seasonal events helping to draw millions of visitors annually.
For fans, the park’s enduring appeal isn’t in question. But as it prepares to launch its most expensive attraction ever, Dollywood now faces the challenge of maintaining that reputation while keeping safety – and staff well-being – at the forefront.
Have you visited Dollywood lately?
