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Anakeesta expansions include flowers, beer and a way to get to the top by ground

During this "Season of Expansion", the company said you can expect to see a new Vista Garden Walk expansion, new dining options, an additional retail shop, a new way to reach the summit, and some upgrades to the overlook.

GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Anakeesta is growing! 

About a year ago, Anakeesta opened its 72-acre outdoor family adventure park in the city of Gatlinburg.

During this "Season of Expansion", the company said you can expect to see a new Vista Garden Walk expansion, new dining options, an additional retail shop, a new way to reach the summit, and some upgrades to the overlook.

RELATED: Anakeesta exhibit commemorates Sevier Co. fires

One big addition: a new way to reach the summit. 

Later this year, Annakeesta visitors will be able to reach the top of Anakeesta Mountain on an immersive ride on an Adventure Truck through the forest. 

Credit: WBIR

The tour is an alternative to riding the Chondola, so it's included in the cost of a ticket. The new passenger trucks will be located at the base station.

"Each journey will feature a guided audio tour featuring fun facts about the unique history of the land and the local animals and plant life of the Great Smoky Mountains," according to a press release.

RELATED: Anakeesta adds a mountain coaster

Anakeesta has already expanded its Vista Garden Walk. Crews have planted 5,000 new flowers, 800 shrubs, and 250 trees. Additional art sculptures called twigloos have been added in addition to gazebos, and a Willow man sculpture. Winding pathways will lead you to treehouses, natural musical instruments, and challenge courses.

Credit: Anakeesta

They're also adding to Anakeesta's dining options, with a casual dining restaurant set to open in Spring 2020 with scenic views of Mt. LeConte. 

"In our new restaurant, you will be able to step inside during the colder months and cool off during those hot summer days," the website said.

Annakeesta's website said it's adding another signature shop you can purchase special items from but it said to stay tuned for exciting updates about what merchandise will be offered.

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A new Overlook beer garden has what Annakeesta calls breathtaking mountain views.

"As part of our 2019 Expansion, we have created another exciting area that will host our live music event series, arts & crafts, local artisan demonstrations, games, and so much more," the website said.

It includes an Airstream Beer Cart. 

Anakeesta opened in September 2018. It announced it was coming in 2015 but the November 2016 wildfires delayed construction.

RELATED: Local Appreciation Days at Anakeesta to benefit Friends of the Smokies

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