Gatlinburg SkyBridge

About the SkyBridge

Opened in May 2019, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is a record-breaking pedestrian suspension bridge that spans 680 feet across a deep valley near the top of Crockett Mountain. At its midpoint, you are suspended 500 feet above the valley floor with unobstructed views of the Smoky Mountains stretching to the horizon in every direction. The bridge holds the title of North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge.

The SkyBridge is part of SkyLift Park, which also includes the iconic SkyLift chairlift that has been operating since 1954, the SkyDeck observation area at the top of the mountain, and SkyTrail, an additional walking experience through the forest. A single ticket grants access to all these experiences, and you can stay at the top as long as you like.

The star attraction for most visitors is the glass floor panels located 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. The panels are made of extremely thick, completely safe glass, but your instincts may tell you otherwise when you step onto them.

Approx drive time from our cabins: 15 minutes to the SkyLift Park base station in downtown Gatlinburg.

The Complete 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 approximately 10-minute ride offers beautiful views as you ascend 1,800 feet above downtown Gatlinburg. It is a pleasant, gentle experience rather than a thrill ride. Dogs are allowed on the chairlift if they are leashed and well-behaved.

SkyDeck and Views

At the top of the chairlift, 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. Interpretive signs help identify the mountains and landmarks visible from this vantage point. Take time to appreciate the views from here before heading to the bridge.

Crossing the SkyBridge

The bridge itself is a marvel of engineering. At 680 feet, it is 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 is wide enough for two-way traffic with comfortable passing room.

The bridge does sway slightly in the wind. This is intentional and part of suspension bridge design that actually makes it safer. Some visitors find this unsettling while others barely notice. If you are sensitive to motion, walk steadily and focus on the views rather than looking at your feet.

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, engineered to hold far more weight than would ever be placed on it. But your instincts may still tell you not to step onto seemingly empty air.

The glass panels are optional. If you prefer, you can walk around them using the regular metal grating walkway. No one will judge you for avoiding them, and the views from the bridge are spectacular regardless of whether you step on the glass.

Tickets and Pricing

Check the SkyLift Park website for current pricing, as rates vary by season and day of the week. Generally expect to pay more on weekends and during peak seasons like summer and fall foliage.

• 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
• Online tickets are sometimes discounted and help avoid ticket window lines
• Check for combination packages with other Gatlinburg attractions
• Ask about local resident discounts if applicable
• Children ages 3 and under are typically free

Best Times to Visit

To Avoid Crowds

• Early morning on weekdays, right when the park opens
• Late afternoon (2 to 4 PM) when the initial morning rush has subsided
• Avoid holiday weekends and October foliage season peaks if possible
• Winter months (except holidays) tend to be less crowded

For Best Views and Photography

• Clear days with low humidity offer the best visibility
• Sunset and twilight for golden hour photography
• After dark for sparkling city lights in the valley below
• Fall for stunning foliage in every direction
• Overcast days actually reduce harsh shadows for portrait photos

What to Know Before You Go

• Location: 765 Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg (look for the yellow chairlift)
• Parking: Limited parking at the base station. Downtown parking garages are nearby.
• Hours: Generally 9 AM to 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 the park for chairlift accommodation details.
• Pets: Leashed dogs are allowed on the chairlift and bridge
• Food: Snacks and drinks are available at the top
• Plan time: Most visits take 1 to 2 hours

Tips for Nervous Visitors

If you are not a fan of heights, here is what you should know:

• The bridge is engineered to be completely safe with massive safety margins
• The metal grating walkway is solid. You will not slip through.
• You can completely avoid the glass panels if you prefer. They are only in the center.
• The gentle sway is normal and intentional. It is part of what makes suspension bridges safe.
• Focus on the stunning mountain views rather than looking straight down
• Many nervous visitors report it was not as scary as they expected once they got out there
• You can turn back at any time if you change your mind

Nearby Attractions

The SkyBridge's downtown location makes it easy to combine with other activities: