All Aboard for Mini Golf Fun: My First Pigeon Forge Adventure at Lost Treasure Golf

If there’s one thing I always make time for on a road trip, it’s a great game of mini golf—and my first visit to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, delivered in the most adventurous way possible!

During my recent getaway, I stumbled upon Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf, and let me just say—it was way more than your average putt-putt course. Picture this: a quirky mining expedition theme, waterfalls, caves, treasure chests, and even a mine train ride that kicks off your round of golf. Yes, you literally board a train that takes you to the top of the course. That alone made it unforgettable.

🎢💎🚂

I’m a mini golf enthusiast through and through, and this place absolutely made my list of favorites. There are two 18-hole courses, and I highly recommend playing both. Each has its own layout and surprises, with creative obstacles and themed elements that make every hole a little adventure.

Whether you’re a family with kids, a couple on a date, or a solo traveler like me who just loves a good challenge (and photo op!), this course is a must when visiting Pigeon Forge.

🎯 Pro Tip: Don’t skip the mine train! Even if you’re only playing once, the ride adds so much character and kicks off the experience in a fun, unexpected way.

I’m already planning to come back to explore more of Pigeon Forge—and yes, probably play both courses again. If you’re heading that way and love mini golf as much as I do, put Lost Treasure Golf at the top of your list!

🎯 Fun Facts About Lost Treasure Golf

1. Start your adventure on a mining train
   The fun begins even before you tee off — you ride a mining car up the mountain to the start of the course, setting the tone for the treasure-hunt theme.
2. The train was “discovered” from WWI
   According to the attraction’s lore, Professor Hacker stumbled upon an old German-built mining train from World War I during his explorations.
3. Two 18‑hole themed courses
   There are two full 18‑hole courses to explore. Each one features its own set of challenges and thematic elements like caves, waterfalls, volcanoes, and ancient ruins.
4. One course is an Egyptian excavation theme
   One of the two courses is styled as an “abandoned Egyptian excavation,” while the other takes you through mountain- and cave‑based environments.
5. Daily “mystery hole” with a prize chance
   At the end of your game, ask one of the guides about the “mystery hole.” It changes daily and might earn you a free game or special reward.
6. Professor Hacker’s backstory is elaborate
   The attraction leans into a fictional adventure narrative: Professor Ephraim “Duffer” A. Hacker went on expeditions to the “Fogclift Islands” in the 1920s to hunt for gold and diamonds.
7. Discounted additional rounds available
   If you want to play more than one round, the attraction offers discounted rates for extra games once you finish your first round — a nice bonus for mini golf lovers.
8. Great photo opportunities everywhere
   Because of the immersive theming — volcanoes, pirate ships, waterfalls, caves, and ancient ruins — every hole has the potential for a great travel or Instagram shot.
9. Established as part of a larger adventure mini golf brand
   Lost Treasure Golf is part of a chain of “Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf” locations across the Eastern United States, each featuring similar two-course setups and adventure themes.
10. You can get a coupon in advance
    Many travel or coupon books in the Smoky Mountains feature $1‑off offers for the first game, so it’s worth checking ahead.