Ober Mountain
local_activityAttractions - Theme Parks

Ober Mountain: Gatlinburg's Year-Round Mountain Playground

starstarstarstar½ 4.4 (8,765 reviews)
location_onGatlinburg scheduleMon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM timer4-8 hours
Scenic Views

About

Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg offers a variety of mountain activities throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy skiing, ice skating, and snow tubing during the winter months. When summer arrives, attractions include the alpine slide, mountain coaster, and wildlife encounters with bears and otters. The scenic 8.5-mile Aerial Tramway connects downtown Gatlinburg to the mountain summit, providing stunning views and easy access to dining and shopping options.

Established in the 1960s, Ober Gatlinburg has grown into a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. The mountain is part of the Great Smoky Mountains, a range known for its ancient geology and rich biodiversity. Ober’s location at traffic light #9 in downtown Gatlinburg makes it a convenient gateway for exploring the surrounding national park. Over the decades, it has maintained a balance between recreational development and preserving the natural beauty of the area.

Visitors to Ober Mountain can expect a full day of outdoor fun combined with relaxing mountain views. The tram ride itself is a highlight, climbing 1,500 feet in elevation and offering panoramic sights of Gatlinburg and the Smokies. Families appreciate the mix of activities that cater to all ages, from thrilling rides to gentle wildlife exhibits. On-site restaurants provide a comfortable spot to refuel before heading back down or continuing adventures on the slopes or trails nearby.

Did You Know

  • Ober Gatlinburg's Aerial Tramway was built in 1973 and spans 8.5 miles, gaining 1,500 feet in elevation (Ober Gatlinburg official site).
  • Ice skating is available year-round at Ober Gatlinburg, making it one of the few mountain resorts with this feature (Tennessee Tourism Board).
  • The mountain is home to a small wildlife sanctuary featuring native bears and river otters rescued from the wild (Ober Gatlinburg Wildlife Program).
  • Ober Mountain sits within the Blue Ridge physiographic province, known for some of the oldest rocks in North America, dating over 500 million years (US Geological Survey).
  • The ski slopes at Ober are among the few in the Smokies, offering a rare winter sports experience in the region (Great Smoky Mountains National Park records).

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location_on
Address
1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
phone
Phone
(865) 436-5423
schedule
Hours
Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM
timer
Typical Visit
4-8 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ober Mountain suitable for beginners in skiing or snowboarding?

Yes, Ober Mountain offers beginner slopes and lessons to help new skiers and snowboarders get started safely.

Can I take the Aerial Tramway both ways in one day?

Absolutely, the tram runs continuously and guests can ride up and down as many times as they like during operating hours.

Are pets allowed at Ober Mountain attractions?

Pets are not permitted on the Aerial Tramway or in most activity areas, but service animals are allowed following ADA guidelines.

What dining options are available at the summit?

Several casual restaurants and snack bars are located at the summit, offering a range of meals from quick bites to sit-down dining.

Is there an admission fee to access Ober Mountain activities?

While some activities require individual tickets or passes, there is no general admission fee to visit Ober Mountain.

Take Home a Piece of Ober Mountain

Branded Locale sticker set arriving soon. Use the heritage benchmark, the editorial illustration, and the photo frame on your water bottle, laptop, or Instagram story.

Part of our Gatlinburg Travel Guide -- aerial rides, restaurants, national park tips, and where to stay.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Ober Mountain is a popular attraction located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Year-round mountain activities. Winter: skiing, ice skating, snow tubing. Summer: alpine slide, wildlife encounters. Aerial tramway access. It is one of the most visited spots in the Great Smoky Mountains region.

Ober Mountain is located at 1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It is easily accessible from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, making it a convenient stop for visitors staying in Smoky Mountain cabin rentals.

Ober Mountain is typically open Mon-Sun: 9AM - 9PM. Hours may vary seasonally, especially during peak tourism months (June through October) and holiday periods. We recommend checking their official website or calling ahead before your visit.

Most visitors spend 4-8 hours at Ober Mountain. However, the actual time depends on your pace and interests. We recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and giving yourself plenty of time to enjoy everything the venue has to offer.

Admission prices at Ober Mountain vary by age and season. Check their official website for the most current ticket prices and any available discounts. Many visitors find combo deals and online advance purchase discounts that can save money.

Ober Mountain is a popular choice for families visiting the Smoky Mountains. Most visitors with children report having a great experience. The attraction offers something for guests of all ages and is conveniently located near many Smoky Mountain cabin rental communities.

With a 4.4/5 rating from over 8,765 visitor reviews, Ober Mountain is widely considered one of the top destinations in Gatlinburg. Most visitors report that the experience is well worth the time and investment, particularly for first-time visitors to the Smoky Mountains.

Popular nearby cabin communities include LeConte Mountain View (featuring Mountain views, Wooded settings), Chalet Village (featuring Clubhouse, Outdoor Pool), and Black Bear Falls Resort (featuring Clubhouse with meeting room, Heated Adult Pool and Children's Pool). Each offers mountain views, resort amenities, and easy access to Gatlinburg attractions. Browse all Smoky Mountain cabin communities to find the perfect fit for your trip.

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