The 3 Most Popular Chair Lifts in Gatlinburg

Published Aug 24, 2021

See the spectacular Smoky Mountains from a soaring chair lift for ultimate views!

1. Ober Mountain Scenic Chairlift

For a gentle ride to the highest point of any chairlift in Gatlinburg, board the Ober Mountain Scenic Chairlift. You’ll be more than 1,600 feet higher than any other lift can carry you! On your ascent, enjoy the longest chair lift ride of its kind anywhere in the country, at 3,019 feet long.

Originally built to take skiers to the top of Mt. Harrison, the lift now carries passengers enjoying the smooth ride to see the breathtaking views. The lift is open seven days a week in all seasons, weather permitting. From May to November, as you reach the summit, you might hear the lively sounds of bluegrass music from the band at the top of the lift! 

2. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Catch the  bright yellow chairs on the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Ride up 500 vertical feet, enjoying expansive views over Gatlinburg and across the Smokies’ slopes. 

Arrive at the SkyDeck and SkyCenter, a huge viewing deck featuring a gift shop, snack bar and indoor viewing area. Hang out with a cold craft beer or a cup of coffee and munch on pizza, nachos, salads, wraps or sweets as you relax in the clouds. 

Leave time to stroll across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Glass floor panels in the bridge make you feel as if you’re floating over the valley far below. A scenic walkway, the SkyTrail, hugs the side of the mountain, connecting the two ends of the bridge. When you’re done, ride the chairlift back down into Gatlinburg. SkyLift Park is open year-round. 

3. Anakeesta

To reach this mountaintop theme park, ride the Chondola, a unique chair lift where you can choose an open-air, four-person chair or an enclosed gondola that seats six. You’ll ascend 600 feet to the top of Anakeesta Mountain. On the ride, watch for animals among the trees below. Lucky passengers might spot a black bear.

On the mountaintop, go ziplining, ride the coaster, mine for gems, walk through the treetops on suspended walkways and enjoy terrific food and drink at Anakeesta’s restaurants. Don’t forget a souvenir from one of the shops before you take the Chondola back to Earth.

Try all three chair lifts! Each takes you to a new destination and unveils different views. Come home to your vacation cabin and compare notes to find your favorite Gatlinburg chairlift. Reserve your rental cabin today.

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