One of the most iconic attractions in the Smoky Mountains is the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway, which has provided scenic rides for millions of people since its opening in 1973! As one of the largest aerial tramways in the United States, this attraction gains 1472 feet in elevation as it soars 2.1 miles from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Mountain! Here are the top 3 reasons why you’ll love riding the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway:
1. Breathtaking Views of the Smokies From the Sky
The Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking views of the Smokies from the sky, so bring your camera or cell phone along to capture some spectacular photos! The trip begins at 1341 feet above sea level and reaches a point of 2813 feet, which is higher than any other cable lift in Tennessee! The only exception is the Scenic Chairlift at Ober Mountain, where you can continue your journey to the peak of Mount Harrison! If those statistics don’t sound impressive enough, keep in mind that you’ll be about 300 feet above the ground during portions of the ride!
2. Fun and Convenient Transportation to Ober Mountain
Another one of the top reasons why you’ll love riding the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway is because it provides fun and convenient transportation to Ober Mountain! While you can drive to the popular mountaintop amusement park and ski area via Ski Mountain Road, you’ll miss the thrilling adventures of soaring through the air on the Aerial Tramway! Once reaching Ober Mountain, you’ll find lots of other exciting activities to experience including the Scenic Chairlift, Ski Mountain Coaster, Alpine Slide, Ice Skating, a Wildlife Habitat, and more!
3. Experience a Unique Part of American History
The Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway is a unique part of American history, as there are only 20 other aerial tramways in operation throughout the United States! Even if you hop aboard for a roundtrip ride without spending time at Ober Mountain, you won’t want to miss this special opportunity! The idea for the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway was born in the winter of 1972 as a means to provide a safer and more comfortable way to reach the ski area. The tramway was completed in August of 1973 and quickly became a famous destination in the Smokies!
Where to Stay
Make the most of your Smoky Mountain vacation by staying at our affordable hotel in downtown Gatlinburg! We offer an amazing location that is within easy walking distance of the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway and lots of other popular attractions, restaurants, and shopping destinations! You’ll find that our hotel has a variety of comfortable room types to meet your needs, including Spa King Suites for couples seeking a romantic getaway in the Smokies! While staying with us, enjoy amenities such as private balconies overlooking a mountain stream, gas fireplaces, an outdoor swimming pool, and a free grab-and-go breakfast!
Check out all of the rooms at our hotel in downtown Gatlinburg today to stay within minutes of the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway! We look forward to welcoming you to the Smoky Mountains!
