About the SkyBridge
Opened in 2019, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is a record-breaking pedestrian suspension bridge that spans 680 feet across a valley near the top of Crockett Mountain. At its midpoint, you're suspended 500 feet above the valley floor with unobstructed views of the Smoky Mountains stretching to the horizon.
The bridge is part of SkyLift Park, which includes the iconic SkyLift chairlift (operating since 1954), the SkyDeck observation area, and SkyTrail (an additional walking experience). A single ticket grants access to all these experiences.
The star attraction is the glass floor panels at the bridge's center. Looking straight down 500 feet through your feet is a thrilling (or terrifying, depending on your perspective) experience that creates some of the most memorable photos of any Gatlinburg visit.
Best Time for Views
Visit about an hour before sunset for golden hour photography and to watch the lights of Gatlinburg begin twinkling below as darkness falls. The bridge is also open after dark when the views take on an entirely different character.
The Experience
The SkyLift Ride Up
Your adventure begins with a ride on the SkyLift, an open-air chairlift that has been carrying visitors up Crockett Mountain since 1954. The 10-minute ride offers beautiful views as you ascend 1,800 feet. It's a pleasant, gentle experience—not a thrill ride.
SkyDeck & Views
At the top, the SkyDeck observation platform offers 360-degree views before you even reach the bridge. This is an excellent spot for photos and to orient yourself to the surrounding geography.
Crossing the SkyBridge
The bridge itself is a marvel of engineering. At 680 feet, it's North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. The walkway is solid metal grating (you can see through it in places), with glass panels in the center section that provide the famous "look straight down" experience.
The bridge does sway slightly in the wind—this is intentional and part of suspension bridge design. Some visitors find this unsettling while others barely notice.
Glass Floor Panels
The four glass panels at the bridge's center are the main attraction for many visitors. Standing on them and looking 500 feet straight down creates an unforgettable (if slightly unnerving) experience. The glass is extremely thick and completely safe—but your instincts may say otherwise!
Tickets & Pricing
- Adult (ages 12+): $29.95-$34.95 depending on season
- Child (ages 4-11): $24.95-$29.95
- Ages 3 and under: Free
- Pricing varies: Higher on weekends and during peak seasons
Tickets include unlimited rides on the SkyLift and unlimited bridge crossings for the day. You can stay at the top as long as you like.
Purchasing Tips
- Buy tickets online in advance to avoid the ticket window line
- Check for combination packages with other attractions
- Ask about local resident discounts if applicable
Best Times to Visit
To Avoid Crowds
- Early morning on weekdays
- Late afternoon (2-4 PM) when the initial rush has subsided
- Avoid holiday weekends and October foliage season peaks
For Best Views
- Clear days (check weather beforehand)
- Sunset and twilight for golden hour photos
- After dark for sparkling city lights below
- Fall for stunning foliage in every direction
For Photographers
- Golden hour (about an hour before sunset) offers magical light
- Blue hour (just after sunset) creates dramatic colors
- Overcast days reduce harsh shadows for people photos
- Fall foliage season provides stunning color backgrounds
What to Know Before You Go
- Location: 765 Parkway, downtown Gatlinburg (look for the yellow chairlift)
- Parking: Limited parking at the base; downtown parking garages nearby
- Hours: Generally 9 AM-10 PM (varies seasonally; check website)
- Weather closures: The bridge may close during high winds, lightning, or severe weather
- Accessibility: The bridge is wheelchair accessible; contact for chairlift accommodation details
- Pets: Leashed dogs allowed on chairlift and bridge
- Food: Snacks and drinks available at the top
Tips for Nervous Visitors
If you're not a fan of heights, here's what to know:
- The bridge is engineered to be completely safe
- The metal grating walkway is solid—you won't slip through
- You can avoid the glass panels if you prefer (they're only in the center)
- The gentle sway is normal and intentional
- Focus on the stunning mountain views, not looking down
- Many nervous visitors report it wasn't as scary as they expected
Combine With
- Downtown Gatlinburg: The SkyLift is right on the Parkway—walk downtown after
- Ripley's Aquarium: Just steps away
- Moonshine tasting: Several distilleries within walking distance
- Anakeesta: Another mountaintop experience (different location)