If you have been looking for one of the top ski destinations in the country, you have picked right with a visit to Gatlinburg. Our vacation destination has everything you need for a thrilling winter sports journey like no other. If you are new to skiing in the area you may have a few questions about what kind of services are available and where you can find your gear at. Take a look at our handy ski guide to Gatlinburg:

Ober Gatlinburg

When you arrive at Gatlinburg you will know where exactly you need to do go. Ober Gatlinburg is the primary ski destination here in the area and it does not disappoint. This award-winning park features some of the finest slopes and services available in all of the area. Getting to Ober Gatlinburg is extremely easy too; all guests need to do is board the Aerial Tramway located in Downtown Gatlinburg without having to drive in the snow. This lets you book a vacation rental in downtown Gatlinburg and still have easy access to the immediate mountains. On average, Ober Gatlinburg is open for skiing and snowboarding from around early to mid-December through mid-March. Specific dates always fluctuate year to year depending on Mother Nature and the snowfall that the area has experienced. Ober Gatlinburg is also unique in how it creates snow from the moisture in the area. Their snow making machines ensure the slopes stay fluffy with real snow all season long.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The Ober Gatlinburg slopes are open to all skiers and snowboarder with approved gear and a ski area ticket. In order to use the slopes all riders need to purchase a ski area ticket in advance or at the time of your arrival. Skiing and snowboarding are always popular activities in the area, so prior reservations are always recommended, especially on the weekend. If your gear needs some tune-up or you do not have the necessary gear, you can always visit on the onsite gear shop. All beginner skiers and snowboarders who have yet to hit the slopes will be required to take an introductory lesson from Ober Gatlinburg’s qualified instructors. This way you will be ready to hit the steeper slopes all on your own without going in without experience.

Rental and Gear Shop

As mentioned, Ober Gatlinburg will take care of all your gear needs with their onsite gear shop. Due to the frequent use of the rental shop all rentals can only be made the day of and in person. If you are looking for a pair of skis or a snowboard you have come to the right place. Each rental is made for the day, allowing you plenty of time to carve down the slopes. Each ski rental will include the skis, boots, and poles while all snowboard rentals will include both the board and boots. Other rental shops in the area may make you pay separate fees for each individual rental. A limited number of helmets, jackets, and pants are also available to rent with adult and children’s sizes currently available. If you need rental gear, Ober Gatlinburg has you covered.

Introductory Lessons

Getting the hang of snowboarding and skiing varies for each rider out there. Some may become quick experts while others may need a few extra times of practice. All first-time riders will need to complete an introductory lesson with one of Ober Gatlinburg’s knowledgeable staff members. This allows you to get the hang of winter sports and lower your risk of injury. During your lesson you will learn how to glide, slow down, turn, and stop along the slopes. You can join one of the many group lessons offered each day where you will be paired with other beginners looking to get started. This low-pressure practice will have you ready in no time. Private lessons are also available for those looking for some additional one-on-one practice with the instructor prior to them hitting the slopes. All guests taking an introductory course needs to have a ski area ticket and proper gear to sign up and join any lesson.

Snow Tubing

If you do not quite feel ready for skiing or snowboarding guests can always try out snow tubing. This thrilling activity at Ober Gatlinburg is available from late November through the end of the ski season. Guests will be able to ride down the slopes on snow tubes for an all-ages activity. Each tubing session is reserved in 90-minute segments and are recommended for weekdays to avoid the heavier traffic on weekends that is the result of skiers and snowboarders being on the slopes.

Your Ski Team in Gatlinburg

Now that you know a little more of the skiing in Gatlinburg you can book ahead for your vacation getaway. Reserve one of our vacation rentals today for a thrilling winter season.

The perfect vacation getaway is located right here just outside of the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg. Our travel destination features all kinds of incredible activities and attractions that will make for an exciting vacation. During your stay, make sure you treat your loved one to a romantic date that shows how much you care for them. Gatlinburg has a variety of romantic activities that are frequented for date nights. Take a look at these places to go in Gatlinburg:

Spend the Day at Ober Gatlinburg

One of the most popular attractions right here in Gatlinburg can be seen when you simply look up. That’s right, Mount Harrison offers one of the best date spots here in the Smoky Mountains. Ober Gatlinburg features one of the best ski resorts in the country. You can find a variety of ski slopes with various experience levels. Winter sports enthusiasts will find all they need for a romantic yet exciting date as they glide down the mountain trails together. If you need a little more romance on your Ober Gatlinburg date, simply walk inside and see what else is offered. Take your loved one on a shopping spree in one of the two malls located in the complex. Onsite restaurants offer delicious food. The best part of a date at Ober Gatlinburg is the ride on the gondola. The aerial tramway takes guests from downtown Gatlinburg up to the top of Mount Harrison. You can expect amazing views from this altitude. Cuddle up with your loved one and enjoy the ride!

SkyLift Park

Sharing an amazing view together is one of the greatest ways to spend a romantic date here in Gatlinburg. Another great spot where you can find unbelievable views is over at SkyLift Park. This local landmark features the SkyLift, a gondola ride that will take you up to Crockett Mountain. The ride has you elevated 500 feet above the ground for majestic views. At the top share a quiet moment together as you overlook the SkyDeck where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Gatlinburg. Another great part of SkyLift Park is the SkyBridge. This recent addition is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world; when you get out to the middle you will find glass panels let you look down below. You can find a combination of thrills and beautiful views when you take your date to SkyLift Park!

Gatlinburg Space Needle

One thing you will notice about most of Gatlinburg’s date night hotspots is the incredible views they provide. The same can be said when you take your date to the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This iconic landmark found right here in the city stands over 407 feet tall. A date spent on top of the observation deck allows you and your loved one to enjoy panoramic views of the city down below. We recommend enjoying this sight at sundown when the sun starts falling in the backdrop creating a splash of beautiful colors across the sky.

Go Wine Tasting at a Local Winery

Gatlinburg features various places where you and your loved one can share a nice bottle of wine together. Visit a local winery to slow down your evening and enjoy locally crafted wines. Gatlinburg Wine Cellar is a local favorite that is open daily and offers free wine tastings. Once you have found your favorite wine buy a bottle to bring back with you to your vacation rental. Smoky Mountain Winery is another great option and is the oldest winery in this part of the country. You will immediately notice how their award winning wines have become local favorites.

Romantic Dining Places to Go in Gatlinburg

Of course, you cannot have a wonderful date without having a meal at one of the several romantic restaurants right here in town. Visit Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse where you can find a romantic ambience and incredible food. This restaurant features traditional American food such as seafood, steak, and burgers inside a mountain lodge setting. Each entrée is made to order and absolutely worthy for your date. Try out one of the handcrafted cocktails that can easily pair with a steak. Another great option is the Melting Pot, a fondue restaurant that offers luxury dining and romantic settings. You will enjoy a multi-course meal where you can enjoy items cooked in the fondue pot right in front of you. The selection of wine cannot be beat along with the sweet and delicious dessert options too. Both restaurants continue to serve for indoor dining.

More Romance in Gatlinburg

As you can see, there are plenty of romantic hotspots right here in Gatlinburg. Make the most of your stay by reserving one of our luxury vacation rentals. You will have access to fine amenities and privacy that other local lodging options cannot provide. Call today and find the perfect rental for you.