5 Places
Ropes Courses & Climbing
Test your balance and bravery on aerial ropes courses, treetop obstacle paths, and climbing walls high above the mountain floor.
Gatlinburg
SkyBridge at Gatlinburg SkyPark
North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge
Pigeon Forge
WonderWorks
Interactive exhibits in upside-down building
Pigeon Forge
Sky Trail Explorer Ropes Course at The Island
Aerial ropes course with obstacles
Pigeon Forge
Sky Tykes Ropes Course at The Island
Ropes course designed for kids
Gatlinburg
Aerial Adventure Park
Multi-level ropes courses & obstacles
What to Know
Best Seasons
Outdoor courses are best from spring through fall in dry weather and may close in rain or storms. Some are indoor or covered and run year round. Mornings are cooler and less crowded in summer.
What to Bring
Closed shoes, comfortable clothes you can move in, and tied back hair. Leave loose items behind, since you will be harnessed and clipped in. Gloves can help on rope heavy courses if you have them.
Finding the Right Course for Your Group
For Families with Young Kids
Look for a park with a dedicated junior course built low to the ground. Little climbers get the harness and the thrill on a scale that suits them, while parents watch from below.
For Confident Climbers
Full height aerial courses test your balance and nerve across suspended bridges, cargo nets, and zip elements. Take the harder routes for a genuine workout and a real sense of accomplishment.
For Groups
Ropes courses are great for groups who like a friendly challenge. Everyone moves at their own pace and cheers each other across the tricky sections. Call ahead for larger parties.
Tips and Getting There
Insider Tips
- Book a morning slot in summer. Climbing in the midday heat is tiring and the courses get busier as the day goes on.
- Check the height and age requirements before you go, especially if you want the younger kids to climb their own course.
- Wear closed shoes and tie back long hair. You will be harnessed in, so leave loose items in the car.
Getting There and Parking
Aerial parks and ropes courses are around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, some on the Parkway and some at the mountain top attractions. Most have parking on site or nearby. Allow extra time for the harness fitting and safety briefing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old or tall do you have to be?
Is it safe?
What should I wear?
Are the courses open year round?
Can young children do a ropes course?
Do I need to book ahead?
Vantage Stays · Smoky Mountain Guide
Ropes Courses & Climbing
Ropes courses and climbing adventures in the Smoky Mountains. Treetop obstacle courses, sky bridges, and climbing walls in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
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hours & details
What to Know
Best Seasons
Outdoor courses are best from spring through fall in dry weather and may close in rain or storms. Some are indoor or covered and run year round. Mornings are cooler and less crowded in summer.
What to Bring
Closed shoes, comfortable clothes you can move in, and tied back hair. Leave loose items behind, since you will be harnessed and clipped in. Gloves can help on rope heavy courses if you have them.
The Checklist
| Place | Rating | Hours | Phone | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gatlinburg | |||||
| SkyBridge at Gatlinburg SkyPark | 4.6 ★ | Mon-Sun: 9AM - 10PM | (865) 436-4307 | 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | |
| Aerial Adventure Park | 4.3 ★ | 10 AM - 6 PM | 865-436-4800 | 1004 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | |
| Pigeon Forge | |||||
| WonderWorks | 4.4 ★ | Daily: 10AM-9PM | (865) 868-1800 | 100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
| Sky Trail Explorer Ropes Course at The Island | 4.5 ★ | 10 AM - 9 PM | 131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | ||
| Sky Tykes Ropes Course at The Island | 4.4 ★ | 10 AM - 9 PM | 131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | ||
Picking the Right One for Your Group
For Families with Young Kids
Look for a park with a dedicated junior course built low to the ground. Little climbers get the harness and the thrill on a scale that suits them, while parents watch from below.
For Confident Climbers
Full height aerial courses test your balance and nerve across suspended bridges, cargo nets, and zip elements. Take the harder routes for a genuine workout and a real sense of accomplishment.
For Groups
Ropes courses are great for groups who like a friendly challenge. Everyone moves at their own pace and cheers each other across the tricky sections. Call ahead for larger parties.
Insider Tips
- Book a morning slot in summer. Climbing in the midday heat is tiring and the courses get busier as the day goes on.
- Check the height and age requirements before you go, especially if you want the younger kids to climb their own course.
- Wear closed shoes and tie back long hair. You will be harnessed in, so leave loose items in the car.