Your Guide to Visiting the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is a must-visit on your Smoky Mountain vacation! It’s home to plenty of opportunities for fun, including taking in gorgeous views and walking across the largest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. With it’s constant growth over the years and all the opportunities for fun and relaxation it offers, we want to make sure you know what to do while you’re there! To help you plan your visit, we’ve put together a guide of everything you need to know about the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
What is there to do there?
We know you’re familiar with the famous Gatlinburg SkyLift, but now you can enjoy more activities at this popular attraction! Learn more about them here:
Gatlinburg SkyLift: Since 1954, the Gatlinburg SkyLift has been providing visitors gorgeous views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Today, the SkyLift is a 3-seat chairlift that takes guests up 500 feet to the top of Crockett Mountain. At the top, visitors can get off the chairlift and explore the SkyDeck, SkyBridge, SkyCenter, and SkyTrail, before riding back down the mountain.
Gatlinburg SkyDeck: The SkyDeck is the best place to relax and take in the breathtaking views! There is an expansive viewing deck, outdoor seating areas, and the SkyCenter building. You can also grab a snack or a cold beer while you sit. You’ll love soaking up the sights of the Smokies. If you want to see one of the most incredible sights, watch the sunset from the viewing deck!
Gatlinburg SkyBridge: From the SkyDeck, you can walk across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, which is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America! The bridge stretches for 680 feet across a deep valley. In the middle of the bridge, you’ll get to walk across glass-floor panels that allow you to look down and see what’s below you! You can cross the bridge at your own pace, taking the time to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
Gatlinburg SkyTrail: The Gatlinburg SkyTrail is a scenic walkway that connects to each end of the SkyBridge and allows guests to take an easy hike in the mountains. It features 3 sections: the Elevated Boardwalk, the Tulip Tower, and The Path. The Elevated Boardwalk is a wooden walking from the back of the SkyDeck along the hillside that cuts under the SkyBridge. Along the walk, you’ll find interactive signage about the SkyBridge, SkyLift, and the wildfires that swept across Crockett Mountain in 2016. The Tulip Tower is a 70′ observation tower accessed by two rope bridges and featuring 4 elevated viewing platforms, with information about story behind the tower on each level. The Path is a non-boardwalk portion of the trail that’s cut into the natural hillside and offers incredible views of the Smokies.
When are the best times to visit?
If you want to try to avoid the crowds when you visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, the best times to visit are early morning and late in the day. The ticket booth opens at 9 a.m. each day, but you can arrive even earlier to get in line. If you want to come later in the evening, purchase a ticket after 8 p.m. — any ticket purchased after 8 p.m. is valid the next day too! This special offer is available to guests who have the online SkyPass ad the onsite Unlimited Visits Tickets.
Here are the official operating hours for the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park:
Summer (Late May – Early September) – 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Ticket window closes at 10 p.m., mountain closes 11 p.m.
Fall, Winter, Spring (Early September – Late May) – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ticket window closes 9 p.m., mountain closes 10 p.m.
Holidays (Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day) – 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Ticket window closes 9 p.m., mountain closes 10 p.m.
Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Where is it located?
The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is located in the heart of Gatlinburg at 765 Parkway. There are two public parking lots a short walk away. All you have to do is hop on the SkyLift to enjoy all the fun on the top of Crockett Mountain!
How much does it cost?
Ticket prices for the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park are as follows:
Adults (12-64) – $32.95
Juniors (4-11) – $18.95
Seniors (65+) – $25.95
Children (3 and under) – Free
The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park also offers a SkyPass online that includes unlimited visits the day of visit, the ability to skip the line, and the opportunity to save when buying at least 1 day in advance.
Why should I visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
You don’t want to miss the chance to visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park! Not only can you enjoy a scenic ride on the SkyLift, but you take in views of the mountains you won’t get anywhere else. It’s perfect for everyone in the family, from the kids to the grandparents! And, of course, you have to try walking across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge. Whether you just want to relax or are looking for a fun adventure, you’ll fall in love with this Gatlinburg attraction. The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park helps you make memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Check out other great things to do in Gatlinburg and start planning your trip to the Smoky Mountains!