Frontierland Map and Brochure (1981)
Location: Cherokee, North Carolina
Years Active: 1964 – 1983
Frontier Land was a wild west-themed amusement park, it ran from 1964–1982.
The park was created by R.B. Coburn, who also built Ghost Town in the Sky in Maggie Valley, and designed by Russell Pearson, a former Disney designer who also developed Frontier City in Oklahoma City, Silver Dollar City in Branson, and Ghost Town in the Sky.
The 140-acre park featured a wood-burning steam train and a gondola that would take visitors to the main three sections of the park:
- Indian Territory
- Fort Cherokee (a replica of a frontier stockade)
- Deadwood Gulch (an 1860s hardscrabble western town)
Frontier Land Brochure 1981
FAQ
What happened to Frontier Land in Cherokee, NC?
Frontier Land in Cherokee, NC closed in the 1980s due to declining attendance and financial challenges. The Western-themed amusement park couldn’t compete with larger regional attractions. Its remnants were eventually dismantled, and the land was repurposed for other developments.
Why is Ghost Town in the Sky closed?
Ghost Town in the Sky is closed due to financial struggles, aging infrastructure, and safety issues. The park faced repeated ownership changes, ride malfunctions, and costly repairs since its peak in the mid-20th century. Efforts to reopen it have failed due to funding challenges.
What is the wealthy island in North Carolina?
Figure Eight Island is considered the wealthiest island in North Carolina. This private, gated island near Wilmington features luxury beachfront homes, no commercial development, and limited public access. It’s known for exclusivity, high property values, and celebrity visitors.
Is Ghost Town in the Sky still open in Maggie Valley?
No, Ghost Town in the Sky in Maggie Valley is not currently open. The park has been closed since 2009, with several failed attempts to reopen it. While there are ongoing redevelopment talks, no official reopening date has been announced.
