Smokies Guide
Your online resource for the Smoky Mountains
Ober Gatlinburg: Upgraded & Ready for Winter Snow Tubing
While many assume that top-tier winter sports are strictly reserved for the Northeast or Out West, Tennessee’s premier mountain destination continuously proves otherwise. Over the past decade, Ober Gatlinburg has undergone massive resort-wide enhancements—solidifying its reputation as an unmissable, year-round mountain paradise in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Early Season Snow Tubing: What to Expect
❄️ Early Season Advantage: Thanks to high-efficiency snowmaking technology—including the advanced Snow Magic system capable of producing snow even in above-freezing temperatures—snow tubing at Ober Gatlinburg reliably kicks off around mid-November and runs continuously through March.
Unlike traditional sledding, there’s no exhausting hike back up the mountain. Here is what makes the experience seamless and fun:
🛗 The Magic Carpet Ride
A built-in conveyor surface lift effortlessly transports riders and their tubes back to the top of the 50-foot, 8-lane tubing hill.
⏱️ 90-Minute Timed Sessions
Tubing sessions run daily, but because of high demand, pre-purchasing tickets online in advance is strongly recommended.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Thrills
Anyone ages 3 and older can join in on the fun (children ages 3–5 ride free with a paid adult).
Hit the Slopes: Skiing & Snowboarding
For winter sports enthusiasts, Ober Gatlinburg offers 10 distinct slopes and trails tailored to every experience level—from gentle, beginner-friendly runs like Cub Way to challenging downhill routes like Ober Chute and Mogul Ridge.
Smoky Mountain Snow Sport School: Whether you're strapping into skis for the first time or looking to polish your snowboarding technique, qualified instructors offer both private and group lessons for all age groups.
Rental Shop & Gear Mall: No need to pack heavy equipment. The on-site rental shop provides full ski and snowboard packages, including high-quality gear, boots, and winter clothing rentals.
Year-Round Attractions & Recent Enhancements
Ober Gatlinburg doesn't slow down when the snow melts. Beyond its winter sports lineup, the park features an array of multi-season activities for visitors of all ages:
🚠 The Aerial Tramway
Enjoy a breathtaking, 2.1-mile scenic ride starting in downtown Gatlinburg and ascending up Mount Harrison.
⛸️ Indoor Ice Rink & Ice Bumper Cars
A massive, climate-controlled indoor arena open year-round for ice skating and bumper car rides.
🛷 Bobsled & Alpine Slide
Experience gravity-powered sled rides weaving smoothly down the mountainside.
🎢 Tennessee Flyer Coaster
A custom-built mountain coaster that winds through the lush Smoky Mountain canopy.
More Recent Additions & Activities:
💡 Pro Tip for Visitors
Book Ahead: Snow tubing sessions and tramway passes sell out quickly during peak winter weekends and holiday periods. Always secure your timed entry online prior to your arrival!
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Whether you're flying down the 8-lane tubing hill, taking in panoramic views from the Aerial Tramway, or hitting the slopes with the family, Ober Gatlinburg delivers an unforgettable Smoky Mountain getaway in every season.
📍 Location & Contact Information
Ober Gatlinburg
1339 Ski Mountain Rd
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
865-436-5423