Quick Facts
About Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a unique amusement park and ski area perched at 3,300 feet elevation on the slopes above Gatlinburg. It is Tennessee's only ski resort and offers a surprisingly diverse collection of attractions and activities that operate throughout the year. While skiing and snow tubing draw crowds in winter, the scenic aerial tramway, alpine coaster, wildlife encounter, and indoor ice skating rink make it a worthwhile destination in any season.
The resort has been operating since 1962, making it one of Gatlinburg's longest-running attractions. The name "Ober" means "upper" or "above" in German, a nod to its mountaintop location and its Bavarian-themed architecture and atmosphere. Over the decades, Ober has continuously added attractions while maintaining its old-fashioned charm.
Approx drive time from our cabins: Just 5 minutes to Ober Gatlinburg via Ski Mountain Road. Our cabins offer views of the aerial tramway gliding up and down the mountain, so you can watch the action from your deck before heading over to experience it yourself.
The aerial tramway ride is an attraction in itself, offering spectacular views as you glide 2.1 miles from downtown to the summit. Even if you are not planning to ski, the tramway experience combined with lunch at the mountaintop restaurant makes for a memorable afternoon outing.
Getting There
Aerial Tramway
The most scenic way to reach Ober is via the aerial tramway, the largest of its kind in the United States. The enclosed cabins carry up to 120 passengers on a 2.1-mile journey from downtown Gatlinburg to the resort. The ride takes approximately 10 minutes each way and offers stunning views of the Smokies and the town below. The tramway station is located on East Parkway (US-321) near traffic light 6 in downtown Gatlinburg.
Driving
You can also drive to Ober via Ski Mountain Road. This option is free and allows you flexibility in when you arrive and leave, but you miss the spectacular tramway ride. The road is steep and winding. During winter weather, four-wheel drive or chains may be required. Check conditions before attempting the drive in icy conditions.
Winter Activities
Skiing and Snowboarding
Ober features 10 trails served by 2 quad chairlifts and 2 surface lifts. While not comparable to major Western resorts, it provides an accessible introduction to snow sports for visitors who may not have mountains nearby at home. Trail difficulty ranges from beginner to intermediate, with a terrain park for those seeking more challenge. All equipment rentals and lessons are available on site.
The ski season typically runs from December through March, weather permitting. Ober makes its own snow when natural snowfall is insufficient, ensuring consistent conditions throughout the season. Check the website for current snow conditions and trail status before your visit.
Snow Tubing
Snow tubing at Ober is hugely popular and often books up quickly during peak periods. The tubing park features multiple lanes of varying lengths and speeds, with a conveyor lift that eliminates the need to climb back up the hill. Tubing is typically available from late November through March. Sessions are timed, so reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
Ice Skating
The indoor ice skating rink operates year-round but feels especially festive during the winter months. The 140 by 75 foot rink offers public skating sessions throughout the day, with skate rentals available. This is a perfect option for families looking for winter activities without the commitment of skiing or tubing.
Plan Your Winter Getaway
Stay in one of our cozy cabins with hot tubs perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes. We are just 5 minutes from Ober Gatlinburg with views of the tramway from your deck!
View Our CabinsYear-Round Attractions
Alpine Coaster
The alpine coaster at Ober is a thrilling ride that operates year-round (weather permitting). Individual sleds race down a 2,700-foot track with curves, dips, and loops. Riders control their own speed via a hand brake, making it suitable for cautious riders and thrill seekers alike. The ride is a huge hit with kids and adults.
Wildlife Encounter
This animal habitat features native Smoky Mountain wildlife that you might not see on hiking trails. Black bears are the stars of the exhibit, but you will also find river otters, birds of prey, and other regional species. Knowledgeable staff provide educational talks about the animals and their role in the mountain ecosystem.
Scenic Chairlift
In warmer months when skiing is not operating, the chairlifts run as scenic rides. The views from the open chairs are spectacular, especially during fall foliage season. This is a different experience than the enclosed tramway and offers a more immersive feeling of being surrounded by the mountains.
Mountain Slide
This classic amusement park attraction sends riders down a 1,800-foot track on small wheeled sleds. Like the alpine coaster, riders control their own speed. It is a lower-key alternative to the alpine coaster that younger kids often prefer.
Additional Attractions
- Indoor Amusement Area with video games and redemption games
- Kiddie Land play area for younger children
- Blue Cyclone (elevated tilt-a-whirl ride)
- Amaze'N Maze wooden maze
- Rock climbing wall
- Gem mining and panning
Dining Options
Ober offers several food options at the mountaintop facility:
- Seasons of Ober Restaurant: Full-service restaurant with mountain views, serving American fare
- Quick service options: Pizza, burgers, snacks available at multiple locations
- Specialty treats: Hot chocolate and funnel cakes are popular, especially in winter
Check the website for current restaurant hours, as they vary by season.
Lunch at the mountaintop restaurant combined with the tramway ride makes for a memorable half-day outing even if you are not interested in the other attractions. The views from the restaurant are exceptional, particularly on clear days.
Tickets and Planning
Check the Ober Gatlinburg website for current pricing and attraction availability. Some key considerations:
- Tramway tickets are separate from individual attraction tickets
- All-day passes that include multiple attractions offer better value for longer visits
- Ski lift tickets, tubing, and rentals are priced separately during winter season
- Many attractions have height or age requirements for safety
- Winter activities (especially tubing) book up quickly during holidays
- Online booking is recommended for popular activities
Tips for Your Visit
- Weather at elevation: Temperatures at 3,300 feet are cooler than in town. Bring layers even in summer.
- Check conditions: In winter, verify that roads and trails are open before heading up
- Book ahead: Tubing and popular activities fill up, especially on holiday weekends
- Plan for crowds: Peak times are weekends and holiday periods. Weekday visits are generally less crowded.
- Allow enough time: Plan at least 3 to 4 hours if you want to experience multiple attractions
- Consider the tramway: Even if you plan to drive, consider taking the tramway one way for the experience
Nearby Attractions
Ober's downtown tramway station makes it easy to combine with other Gatlinburg attractions:
Approx Drive Time from Our Cabins
| Location | Drive Time |
|---|---|
| Our Cabins to Ober Gatlinburg | Approx 5 minutes |
