We visited Dollywood on 8/14/2022. Of course, Lightning Rod is the first ride of the day.  We ended up riding this coaster 5 times.  This is no longer a wooden coaster per se.  60% of the track is unfortunately now I-Box tracked.  I definitely prefer wooden tracks but understand the reasoning for this.  This is still my favorite RMC coaster by a long margin and still my 3rd favorite wooden coaster.  Once this coaster is converted to steel coaster, this will still rank within my top 10 favorite steel coaster.  

We got 2 rides each on Thunderhead, Drop Line (of course), Wild Eagle and Mystery Mine.  We got 1 ride each of Fire Chaser and Dragon Fly.  

Big Bear Mountain Coaster construction has been going on for many months now.  Now, there are signs of what the new ride is.  I posted the pictures on other Park section. 

Interestingly, there was a filming going on for a movie.  Dolly Parton was there along with other celebrities including Jimmy Fallon, Miley Cyrus, and Billy Ray Cyrus.  Some of them were riding Lightning Rod.  Red Cafe was closed for the shooting.  There were so many people standing around the filming area. 

The park was somewhat busier than regular summer Sundays possibly due to filming.  As always, this visit was quite enjoyable.  

That is so cool. Thanks for sharing!