The Smoky Mountains are renowned for their beauty, and there is no better way to view the majestic natural scenery than from above the trees! Gatlinburg is home to several scenic rides where you can glide above the forest floor to see the Smoky Mountains from a completely different perspective! Here are 4 fun Gatlinburg rides where you can experience a stunning aerial view of the Smokies:
1. Chondola at Anakeesta
One of the most unique rides in Gatlinburg is the Chondola at Anakeesta, which is the first fixed-grip transportation system of its type to be built in the United States! This scenic ride takes you on a 600-foot journey to the top of Anakeesta Mountain, where you can enjoy spectacular views and the whimsical Firefly Village filled with fun attractions, shops and restaurants. When riding the Chondola, you can choose to board one of the traditional 4-person ski-lift style chairlifts with a safety bar or one of the enclosed gondola cabins with seating for 6.
2. Gatlinburg Sky Lift
Kick back on the best seat in Gatlinburg as you travel to the top of Crockett Mountain on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift! This ski-lift style attraction takes you 1,800-feet high where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. The slow climb to the peak is the perfect time to relax before slowly turning around for the exhilarating ride back down! Ride during the daylight hours to see the gorgeous scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, then ride again at night to witness the twinkling lights of downtown Gatlinburg!
3. Aerial Tramway
One of the most exciting Gatlinburg rides is the Aerial Tramway that travels for 2.1 miles from downtown Gatlinburg to the Ober Gatlinburg ski and amusement park area. Each of the counter-balanced tram cars has a capacity for 120 passengers and provides an incredible experience for guests of all ages! The Aerial Tramway departs every 20 minutes from each station and can be quite popular, so be sure to allow plenty of time when visiting during peak periods.
4. Scenic Chairlift at Ober Gatlinburg
While visiting Ober Gatlinburg, be sure to take a ride on the Scenic Chairlift for some of the best views of the Smokies! You can purchase individual tickets for this ride or buy a wristband that includes other Ober Gatlinburg attractions such as the alpine slide, mountain coaster, miniature golf, ice skating and more!
Where to Stay
Stay just minutes from these fun Gatlinburg rides with a vacation at the Black Bear Inn & Suites! Our affordable hotel is situated directly on the Gatlinburg Parkway and is within easy walking distance of many restaurants and attractions. While staying in our comfortable rooms, enjoy a wonderful variety of amenities, including a delicious complimentary breakfast, an enclosed heated swimming pool, free wireless internet access, and a microwave and refrigerator in every room!
Check out all of the rooms at our hotel in Gatlinburg TN today to plan your vacation near these scenic Gatlinburg rides! We hope to see you soon at the Black Bear Inn & Suites!