Ober Gatlinburg, which initially opened over 50 years ago, is a popular mountaintop destination complete with an aerial tramway, alpine slide, ski slopes, amusement park, ice skating, wildlife, and much more. The wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities has continued to make Ober Gatlinburg popular with visitors in spite of its somewhat outdated appearance. The majority of the attractions range in price from $4.00 to $20.00 or you can buy an unlimited wristband for the day. If you can get past the 1970s appearance, the following activities are fun for families:
Aerial Tramway:
The Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway has a station located in downtown Gatlinburg at Traffic Light #9 and a second station located on the peak of Mount Harrison. The tram, which is the largest aerial tramway in the United States, transports approximately 8 million visitors each year between downtown Gatlinburg and Ober Gatlinburg.
Snow Skiing (winter only):
The nine trails at Ober Gatlinburg are considered by many to be the best skiing in the Southeast. Whether you are beginner level or have been skiing for years, Ober Gatlinburg has a slope that is perfect for you! With state-of-the-art snowmaking machines and 100% snowmaking capabilities, you won’t be at the mercy of Mother Nature.
Tubing (winter only):
Are you looking for a great winter activity, but don’t know how to ski or have young children that want to participate? Snow tubing is the perfect option for you! Children (3+) and adults alike are sure to enjoy the 300′ long tubing park with an exciting 50′ drop!
Alpine Slide:
Are you ready for all of the thrills of bobsledding in any season? If so, the 1,800’ Alpine Slide is sure to please. Visitors are treated to spectacular views of the surroundings Smoky Mountains as they scream down parallel 1,800’ tracks.
Scenic Chairlift:
The chairlift at Ober Gatlinburg runs year-around and provides outrageous views of the surrounding mountains. In addition to the incredible scenery, a Bluegrass band performs daily between Memorial Day and Thanksgiving at the top of the chairlift.
Wildlife Encounter:
If you and your family want to finally get a glimpse of that elusive black bear, Ober Gatlinburg’s Wildlife Encounter provides the perfect opportunity. You are guaranteed to spot the Smoky Mountains’ most famous resident here! The encounter is complete with bear cubs, river otters, flying squirrels, turtles, raccoons, snakes, and birds of prey.
Ice Skating:
Ober Gatlinburg’s 140’ by 75’ indoor ice skating arena is open year around and located within the huge Ober Gatlinburg mall at the summit. Don’t have your own pair of skates? No worries. The rink has over 400 pairs available for guests.
Blue Cyclone Rapids:
Hop on your raft and get ready for a 60’ drop that will rapidly accelerate you to speeds in excess of 30 mph. This 600’ long fully-enclosed ride pulls 2.9 G’s and keeps thrill seekers happy.
Race down the mountain on the Ski Mountain Coaster! This adventure lasts over 5 minutes and promises an exciting journey as you twist and turn through the lush foliage.
Insider Tips:
If the $15 per person to ride the aerial tramway to Ober Gatlinburg (roundtrip) seems too expensive, avoid the charges by driving up. Drive past the downtown aerial tramway station to Parkway Light #10 and turn on to Ski Mountain Road. Stay on Ski Mountain Road for approximately 3 miles and it will dead-end at Ober Gatlinburg. Parking will set you back $8 per vehicle and is limited.
Directions:
The downtown aerial tramway station is located in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee near Traffic Light #9. Alternatively, you can drive up to Ober Gatlinburg by turning on Ski Mountain Road (Light #10) and following that road until it dead ends.