Ober Gatlinburg shuts down for major updates
March 23, 2021

GATLINBURG, TN - Until May 28 the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway will be closed for major upgrades and preventative maintenance. During this time, Ober will be replacing the existing Track Ropes and switching to an AC drive with a variable frequency controller. The Track Ropes have a 50-year lifespan, and they will be replacing the original Track Ropes from 1973 when the Aerial Tram was built with 9-miles of steel cables. Estimated cost of the project will be $4.5 million.

Ober Gatlinburg will have its Annual Shutdown for maintenance and improvements April 26 - May 6, 2021. The Shutdown will consist of all departments making cosmetic improvements as well as inspections and maintenance on activities including some capital improvements. Ober Gatlinburg will be completely closed to the public during this time. In addition to the annual shutdown, the Aerial Tramway will be closing for preventative maintenance and upgrades.

During this time, Ober Gatlinburg will offer a free shuttle from downtown to our mountaintop park. Although the Aerial Tramway will not be in service, Ober Gatlinburg will continue to operate all other attractions, retail malls/shops and food service locations. The duration of this upgrade project is estimated and could be accelerated or extended as needed. Please monitor Ober Gatlinburg’s website and social media for updates regarding operating hours and activity schedules.

Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area & Amusement Park is Tennessee’s only ski area and a favorite year-round family friendly destination. Shopping, dining, and amusements are just an Aerial Tram ride away from downtown Gatlinburg. Upon arrival, visitors can take a ride on the Ski Mountain Coaster, spin around the rink on the Ice Bumper Cars or listen to Bluegrass music atop Mount Harrison via the Scenic Chairlift. Seasonal activities include: snow skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in the winter; Alpine Slide, Rock Climbing Wall, Chair-Swing, Maze, and Mini-Golf in spring, summer and fall, and the Ski Mountain Coaster, Scenic Chairlift, Wildlife Encounter and Indoor Ice Skating year round. The summer season adds Water Raft Rides and Summer Tubing. Scenic dining awaits in Seasons of Ober Restaurant or grab a bite at one of three on-site cafes.

For more information regarding Ober Gatlinburg, visit www.obergatlinburg.com