Your Guide To the Gatlinburg Skiing Scene
Gatlinburg skiing is a fun and thrilling activity that Tennessee visitors take advantage of from December to March. There are areas of the slopes that are friendly enough for beginners, but also challenging enough for experts. Every year, thousands of skiers descend upon the area for fun in the winter sun.
Not only is Gatlinburg family-friendly, but there are also plenty of other nearby activities. Learn more at Relax Gatlinburg, where you can also find information on shopping, sightseeing, lodging, possible wildlife encounters, and the best places to dine.
What Is The Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort?
The Gatlinburg ski scene at the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort is a great place for family fun. This area has plenty of activities for those who love the icy outdoors. Not only can you ski, but you can also take advantage of other activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and even snowboarding at Terrain Park. This has been a yearly tradition in this area for decades — since 1975, to be exact. The top elevation for Ober Gatlinburg Mountain measures 3,208 feet, with a vertical drop of 600 feet.
The ski season runs from December through March. However, the amount of precipitation in the Ober Gatlinburg ski area ultimately determines the date — and this area can be quite unpredictable. Also, the slopes sometimes need a bit of help. Giant snow machines are on standby to help generate enough “snow” for the ski slopes. Take in the winter wonderland from either aerial lifts or a simple surface lift. It is advisable to purchase tickets to the ski area in advance. Not only will you save money, but you are also guaranteed access to the slopes. If you need winter apparel, on-site rentals are at the ski ticket area.
Ober Gatlinburg Ski School
If you are a beginner skier, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort has a ski school run by trained professionals. They teach novices the finer points of skiing and snowboarding. While it’s all in the spirit of fun, they do stress safety first. You are invited to take group lessons with others. You may also take private lessons for a more hands-on approach. Either way, the techniques taught by professionals will give you more confidence on the slopes.
Not only is Ober Gatlinburg a ski area, but it’s also an amusement park. The year-round Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway provides a scenic view beginning in downtown Gatlinburg and stretching upward to the park area. While the aerial tram is located at 1001 Parkway, the Mountaintop Park & Ski Area is accessible by driving up Ski Mountain Road.
Skiing isn’t the only activity available at Ober Gatlinburg. Ice skating for beginners and ice bumper cars are offered year-round in an indoor ice rink. Skates for indoor ice skating are available for rentals.
What Is Night Magic Skiing?
This event, which takes place from Jan. 1 through Jan. 31 is a magical way to experience the slopes at night. The white snow contrasted with the darkness is a very unique way to enjoy the excitement. Both skiers and snowboarders can traverse down the slope. You can also catch a ride on one of the many scenic chairlifts or the aerial tramway to get a 360 view of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
At the end of the adventure, treat yourself to a hot cup of cocoa and cookies at one of the many restaurants. Most of the cabins are equipped with fireplaces if you’re looking to warm up after your excursion. Be sure to get your tickets and reserve a cabin as early as possible. This event is very popular and fills up quickly.
Cubbies Snow Zone
This area was created with small children in mind. It is an area to let smaller children let loose in the snow. Adults are advised that some restrictions and rules must be followed. It is a cold, alpine area, so children can potentially have slips and falls. Needless to say, they must be watched closely. No snowball fights are allowed. Kids are still allowed to snowboard and ski.
Upcoming Events
Planning a trip to Gatlinburg? The following are some upcoming events to plan your vacation.
Back In Blue
This event features snowboarders and skiers performing their best jumps on rails and boxes. There will be plenty of music, food, and great prizes. It will take place on Nov. 18.
Ladies’ Night On The Slopes
All ladies who bring ten cans of food can have a free night on the slopes. This event takes place from Jan. 24, 2023, through Feb. 28, 2023. All donations go to Sevier County Food Ministries.
College Night On The Slopes
All college students who bring ten cans of food get a free night on the slopes. The date is Jan. 26, 2023, through March 2, 2023. Proceeds go to Sevier County Food Ministries.
Spring Fling
This event features the popular “pond skimming” where skiers and snowboards attempt to jump the pond without falling into the icy waters. This event takes place on March 5, 2023, weather permitting.
Tennessee Special Olympics Winter Games
Ober Gatlinburg is proud to host this event for the Special Olympics. Hundreds of athletes with intellectual disabilities will compete in the areas of skiing, snowboarding, and more. The public is encouraged to come out and support this event. It will take place on Jan. 30th and 31.
Gatlinburg Skiing FAQ
What Is New At The Resort?
The area has 15 new SMI Polecat snow guns. These snowmaking machines are automated and signaled to come on once the temperature and humidity reach a certain point, ensuring there is always fresh snow for skiers on the mountain.
Which Runs Are The Best
While each run is different, the Grizzly is a customer favorite. It is a long, steep run right along a tree line. It is a less traveled run because it is only attempted by more advanced skiers. This run also has one of the most beautiful views going downhill.
Skiers should also know that there is a ski patrol that assists in the area. The patrol is to help enforce safety rules and regulations and to provide aid if someone is hurt. The proprietors of the Gatlinburg ski slopes take the welfare and safety of its visitors seriously. They work hard to make the area as safe and incident-free as possible.
Plan Your Visit Today
If you are a skier and looking for a great place to visit, come to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Take advantage of several fun skiing activities while on the mountaintops and slopes. Be sure to make getaway plans so you can get the early bird pricing. Contact us for more information about the Gatlinburg skiing scene.