When you vacation in the Smoky Mountains, you will have an array of unique opportunities to get a bird’s eye view of the natural scenery. Throughout Gatlinburg, you will find numerous mountain-top attractions that feature all sorts of wonderful activities for your family. One of the most popular attractions in the Smokies features hiking trails, a pedestrian bridge, and the most iconic chairlift in the mountains. Here is the ultimate guide to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park:
Ride to the Top
The adventure to the park begins with a ride on the iconic yellow chairlift known as the Gatlinburg SkyLift. When the lift was built in 1954, it was the first four-season scenic chairlift in the South. Since that time, it has transported millions of visitors up and down Crockett Mountain to downtown Gatlinburg. On your way up the mountain, you can take in the gorgeous scenery of the Smokies. As you arrive at the top, you will be let off by the SkyDeck’s amphitheater, where you can sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Newest Addition
The newest addition to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is the SkyTrails, which offer a fun hiking adventure for guests of all ages. The scenic walkway connects both sides of the SkyBridge and provides the opportunity to take a leisurely hike in the mountains. Along the way, you can soak up the incredible view of the Smokies and Gatlinburg. You will also learn more about the history of the park, including the SkyBridge, SkyLift, and the 2016 wildfires that swept across Crockett Mountain. The trails are split into three sections that combine to cover just over one-third of a mile, making it an easy walk for adults, kids, and even dogs!
Main Attraction
One of the most unique experiences in the Smokies is walking across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. Located at 1,800 feet above sea level, the SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian cable bridge in all of North America. It ranges over 700 feet across a deep valley and it stands 500 feet above downtown Gatlinburg. The most fascinating part of the bridge is the 30 foot portion that is made of a glass floor, giving you the chance to look down and see how high up you are! If you make it across the bridge, that is one thing that you can cross off the bucket list of things to do in the Smokies.
Tickets, Hours, and More
You can either purchase your tickets to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park online or at the box office on the date of your arrival. However, if you purchase the “SkyPass” tickets online you can skip the line at the ticket window and get straight in line at the SkyLift. If you purchase tickets two days or more in advance, you will also receive a special discount. The park hours vary depending on the time of year, so be sure to check out the park schedule before planning your trip!
Now that you know about the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, be sure to check out our free Smoky Mountain attraction tickets to save money during your stay in one of our cabins. We look forward to seeing you soon!
