Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park

What Is Zorbing?

Zorbing is an adventure activity where you climb inside a giant, transparent inflatable ball and roll down a hill, experiencing the sensation of tumbling and spinning while safely cushioned inside the sphere. The activity originated in New Zealand and has become a popular attraction at adventure parks worldwide. At Outdoor Gravity Park in Pigeon Forge, zorbing takes on a unique Smoky Mountain twist, combining the thrill of the roll with stunning mountain views.

The zorb ball itself is a remarkable piece of engineering - a large sphere made of durable, transparent plastic that contains an inner chamber where you ride. The space between the outer and inner walls provides cushioning, making the experience surprisingly comfortable despite the tumbling motion. As you roll down the hill, you experience a sensation unlike anything else - part roller coaster, part human hamster ball, and entirely unforgettable.

Outdoor Gravity Park is one of the premier zorbing destinations in the United States, offering multiple types of zorb experiences to suit different comfort levels and adventure preferences. Whether you want to get soaked in a water-filled zorb or stay dry in a harness-equipped ball, there is a zorbing experience perfect for you.

Types of Zorb Rides at Outdoor Gravity Park

H2O Zorb Wet Ride

The H2O Zorb is the signature wet experience at Outdoor Gravity Park. You climb into a giant ball partially filled with warm water, then roll down the hill while sloshing and splashing inside. This is the most popular option, especially during hot summer months, as the water adds an extra element of fun and helps keep you cool. The sensation of rolling and tumbling while surrounded by water is unique and exhilarating. You will get completely soaked, so this option is perfect for those who do not mind getting wet and want the full zorbing experience.

Harness Dry Ride

For those who prefer to stay dry, the harness zorb offers the same rolling thrill without the water. You are secured inside the ball with a harness system that keeps you suspended in the center of the sphere as it rolls down the hill. This option is ideal for people who want to experience zorbing but prefer not to get wet, or for those visiting during cooler months. The harness provides a secure feeling while still allowing you to experience the full tumbling and spinning sensation of the roll. Many first-time zorbers find the harness option less intimidating than the water-filled version.

Flat Land Zorb

The flat land zorb experience is perfect for younger children or those who want a gentler introduction to zorbing. Instead of rolling down a steep hill, you roll the zorb ball across a flat surface, giving you more control over the experience. This option is less intense than the hill course but still provides the unique sensation of being inside a giant rolling ball. It is an excellent way for families to introduce kids to zorbing before they try the hill course, or for anyone who wants the zorbing experience without the steep descent.

The Outdoor Gravity Park Experience

Outdoor Gravity Park is located at 203 Sugar Hollow Road in Pigeon Forge, just minutes from the main Parkway and easily accessible from Gatlinburg. The park features a dedicated hill course specifically designed for zorbing, with multiple lanes so multiple people can zorb simultaneously. The facility includes changing rooms, restrooms, and a viewing area where friends and family can watch your zorbing adventure.

When you arrive, you will check in at the main office, sign a waiver, and receive a brief safety orientation. Staff members are friendly and experienced, helping you understand what to expect and answering any questions. The entire process from check-in to completion typically takes one to two hours, depending on how many rides you purchase and how busy the park is.

The park operates seasonally from March through November, with extended hours during peak summer months. Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and holidays, as zorbing has become increasingly popular with visitors to the Smoky Mountains. The park also offers group rates and special packages for families and large groups.

The Hill Course

The hill course at Outdoor Gravity Park is specifically engineered for zorbing safety and excitement. The slope is carefully graded to provide enough speed for an exhilarating ride while maintaining safety standards. The course features multiple parallel lanes, allowing several zorb balls to roll simultaneously without interference. Safety barriers line the sides of the course, ensuring the zorb balls stay on track throughout the descent.

The hill itself is approximately 1,000 feet long, providing a ride that lasts about 30 to 60 seconds depending on which type of zorb you choose. The water-filled H2O Zorb tends to move faster due to the water's momentum, while the harness zorb may roll slightly slower. Either way, the ride is over quickly but creates memories that last much longer.

At the bottom of the hill, staff members are waiting to help you exit the zorb ball safely. The balls are then rolled back up the hill using a special retrieval system, ready for the next riders. The entire process is well-organized and efficient, maximizing your time for fun while maintaining safety protocols.

What to Expect During Your Zorb Ride

Once you are inside the zorb ball and the staff gives the signal, you will begin rolling down the hill. The initial moments are the most intense, as the ball picks up speed and begins tumbling. You will experience a combination of rolling, spinning, and bouncing motions that create a sensation unlike any other amusement park ride. The transparent walls of the zorb allow you to see the world spinning around you, adding to the disorienting but thrilling experience.

If you choose the H2O Zorb, you will be sloshing around in warm water as you roll, which adds an extra element of unpredictability to the ride. The harness zorb provides a more controlled experience, with the harness keeping you relatively centered as the ball rolls. Either way, the ride is over quickly, and most people emerge laughing and wanting to do it again.

It is normal to feel a bit disoriented immediately after exiting the zorb ball. Take a moment to steady yourself, and the feeling will pass quickly. Most people find the experience exhilarating rather than nauseating, but if you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to start with the gentler flat land zorb option.

What to Wear and Bring

For the H2O Zorb wet ride, you will want to wear a swimsuit or quick-dry athletic clothing. Avoid cotton, as it becomes heavy and uncomfortable when wet. Many people wear swimsuits with a t-shirt over top for modesty. Water shoes or sport sandals with straps are recommended - flip-flops will likely fall off during the ride. Bring a towel and a complete change of clothes, as you will be thoroughly soaked after the H2O Zorb experience.

For the harness dry ride, comfortable athletic clothing is fine. You will still want closed-toe shoes with good grip, as you will need to walk up the hill to the starting point. The harness zorb keeps you dry, so regular clothing is appropriate.

Leave valuables like phones, cameras, wallets, and jewelry in your car or with a non-participating friend. The zorb balls do not have pockets, and items can be lost or damaged during the ride. The park provides secure storage for your belongings if needed.

Safety Information

Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park is designed with safety as the top priority. All zorb balls are regularly inspected and maintained, and staff members are trained in safety procedures. The hill course is engineered to provide excitement while maintaining safety standards, with barriers and safety zones throughout.

There are age and weight restrictions for zorbing. Children must be at least 5 years old to participate, and there are maximum weight limits that vary by the type of zorb ride. Pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions including heart problems, back injuries, or recent surgeries should not participate. The park staff will review these requirements during check-in.

While zorbing is generally safe, it is a physical activity that involves tumbling and spinning. You should be in reasonable physical health and able to handle moderate physical activity. If you have concerns about whether zorbing is appropriate for you or a family member, consult with the park staff before booking.

Tips for Visiting Outdoor Gravity Park

• Book in advance: Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season and weekends. Walk-ins are welcome but may face wait times.
• Arrive early: Getting there early in the day often means shorter wait times and more available time slots.
• Start with one ride: If you are unsure about zorbing, start with a single ride. You can always purchase additional rides if you love it.
• Bring a camera: Have someone in your group stay at the viewing area to take photos or videos of your zorbing adventure.
• Combine with other activities: Outdoor Gravity Park is located near many other Pigeon Forge attractions, making it easy to combine zorbing with mountain coasters, ziplining, or other adventures for a full day of fun.
• Check the weather: Zorbing operates in most weather conditions, but severe storms may cause temporary closures. Call ahead if weather looks questionable.
• Allow extra time: Plan for one to two hours total, including check-in, safety briefing, waiting your turn, and the actual ride experience.
• Stay hydrated: Especially important if you are doing the H2O Zorb on a hot day - bring water for before and after your ride.