Ober Mountain Gatlinburg Guide
Ride the aerial tram from downtown Gatlinburg to Tennessee’s only ski area and a year-round mountaintop adventure park.
About Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain, long known as Ober Gatlinburg, is a mountaintop adventure park and ski area above Gatlinburg and the only ski area in Tennessee. The easiest way up is The Gatlinburg Tram, which has run since 1973 from the Tramway Mall at 1001 Parkway.
The 2.1-mile ride climbs 1,472 feet to 2,813 feet above sea level, with views of Gatlinburg and the national park on the way. Skiing and snowboarding run in winter, and the adventure park is open the rest of the year. It pairs well with a day at Anakeesta.
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Top Things to Do at Ober Mountain
What to plan for, whether you visit for snow or summer views.
The Gatlinburg Tram
One of America’s largest aerial tramways. Two cars each carry up to 120 riders and depart about every 20 minutes, rising about 300 feet above the ground at the highest point.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Beginner to advanced slopes with lifts and a terrain park. The season usually runs from around Thanksgiving to mid-March, depending on the weather.
Snow Tubing
A winter favorite for families who want snow fun without skis. Check the slope report for daily conditions.
Ice Skating
The indoor rink lets you skate on a mountaintop no matter what the weather is doing outside.
Adventure Park Rides
In warmer months the mountaintop park offers rides and attractions with mountain views. Many are bundled in Ober’s Fun Pass and Adventure Pass.
Shopping & Dining
Grab a bite and browse the shops at the Tramway Mall downtown or at the top of the mountain.
Getting to Ober Mountain
Two ways up. The tram is the easiest, especially in winter.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Tram Station | The Tramway Mall, 1001 Parkway, at Parkway and LeConte Street, halfway between traffic lights #8 and #10. |
| Tram Parking | Ober lists its downtown lot at 314 Cottage Drive, Gatlinburg, paid at the kiosk. |
| Driving Up | Turn at traffic light #10 onto Ski Mountain Road and follow it about 3 winding miles to 1339 Ski Mountain Road. Parking at the top is limited, and the road can need 4-wheel drive in bad weather. |
| Tickets | The tram is included in the Fun Pass and Adventure Pass, or ride with a tram-only ticket. |
| Weather | Activities can close for weather or maintenance. Check the hours page and slope report at obergatlinburg.com. |
Best Time to Visit
Ober Mountain is open year-round, with a very different feel in each season.
Spring
Late ski days can linger into March, then the adventure park opens up as the weather warms.
Summer
Cooler air on the mountaintop and long views from the tram make it a good escape from the heat.
Fall
The tram ride shows off fall color across the ridges above Gatlinburg.
Winter
Ski season usually opens around Thanksgiving, weather permitting. Expect the busiest days over the holidays.
Ober Mountain FAQs
Quick answers from our local Casago team.
Where does the Gatlinburg Tram leave from?
The tram leaves from the Tramway Mall at 1001 Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, at Parkway and LeConte Street, halfway between traffic lights #8 and #10.
How long is the tram ride to Ober Mountain?
The Gatlinburg Tram travels 2.1 miles and climbs 1,472 feet to 2,813 feet above sea level. Cars depart about every 20 minutes.
Can you drive to Ober Mountain?
Yes. Turn at traffic light #10 onto Ski Mountain Road and follow it about 3 miles to the top. Parking at the top is limited, especially on holidays.
When is ski season at Ober Mountain?
The slopes usually open around Thanksgiving and stay open until about mid-March, depending on weather. Check the slope report before you go.
Is Ober Mountain open in summer?
Yes. The tram runs year-round and the adventure park is open in the warmer months, with rides, shopping and dining at the top.
Tips for Visiting
Make your trip seamless and memorable with these insider recommendations.
Take the Tram
The tram avoids the steep, winding drive and limited parking at the top, especially in winter weather.
Pack a Layer
It is usually colder at the top than downtown, so bring a jacket even outside ski season.
Stay Close By
Book direct with Casago Smoky Mountains for a cabin a short drive from downtown Gatlinburg, without third-party booking fees.