Things to do / Travel Guide
Address:Pigoen Forge, Tennessee
Tel:
(865) 436-5423
America's Largest Aerial Tramway is the premier way to arrive in style and comfort to this old-world style ski area known as Ober Gatlinberg located in Gatlinberg, Tennassee in the Great Smoky Mountains. Eight trails catering to all levels are serviced by three lifts and the 3,300 foot summit will please riders of any age and skill level.
Open every day throughout a season that stretches from Mid-December to early March, this resort packs a hefty punch in its variation of terrain. From the forgiving beginner slopes all the way up to the sometimes icy but thrilling black diamonds, no one is left out., Ober Gatlinberg takes pride in its nightly groomed ski area, and its shows.
Mandatory lessons for 1st time skiers and snowboarders make the experience a pleasure for those who hate having to dodge out of control riders who have wandered onto trails unsuitable for their level of skill. True, some people don't like the idea of having lessons imposed on them but, at the end of the day, the results speak for themselves. Ober Gatlinberg's ski school is staffed by professionals certified not only in America but Switzerland as well, so students come away with a diverse wealth of knowledge.
In addition to skiing and boarding, make sure to check out the Alpine Toboggan Slide with its two 1800 foot tracks for an interesting way to make it down the mountain. There is also a scenic chairlift ride that will give you a fantastic view of the Great Smoky Mountains. You can even have your picture taken at the top for a small fee.
There is no terrain park for snowboarders at Ober Gatlinberg, but riders are allowed on all trails provided a leash is worn. A staggering 1700 pairs of rentals of both skis and snowboards are available onsite and go out on a first come first served basis. A credit card or cash deposit of around $300 is required for all snowboard rentals. Full repair and tuning shops are also available on site for any problems that may arise.
Lift tickets may be purchased for day, twilight, or night skiing or in a combination format. There are adult, junior, and senior rates. Children under the age of 6 ski or ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Ober Gatlinberg is generally not crowded until school lets out for the day, at which time the slopes fill up with locals, so plan accordingly. Arrive early, avoid the crowds and spend your day on the slopes.
For après skiing, you absolutely mustn't miss the massive indoor ice skating rink surrounded by the mall, restaurants, and shops! In the restaurant and lounge, there is live music on Friday's and Saturdays, making it a great place for adults to unwind and spend a few hours. For a quick bite, there are multiple food places and snack bars offering everything from hamburgers to seafood and deserts. Stop by the Fudge Shoppe to top off your meal with a free sample of homemade fudge! Don't worry about transportation back to your car, just hop on the aerial tramway and ride straight back down to your car. Lodging is found closest in Knoxville with major hotels, motels and cabins.
Whether for the convenience, the great skiing, or the terrific après ski atmosphere, Ober Gatlinberg should top your list of places to try this winter.
From Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort - Pigoen Forge, Tennessee:
Ober Gatlinburg offers 8 ski trails serviced by two quad and one double chairlift which keeps you out of lift lines and on the slopes. When temperatures drop, our snowmaking equipment blankets 100% of our slopes. Slopes are maintained with the latest in snow-grooming equipment to provide a smoother, more consistent surface creating enjoyable skiing conditions.