Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort Opens for the Season
The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.
1. Elkmont Trollbridge
Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.
2. House Of The Fairies
This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells.
3. Synchronous Fireflies
The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.
4. Elkmont Ghost Town
Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.
There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.
The Great Smoky Mountains are a year round destination for people seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities. In the winter you can find some of the region’s best opportunities for skiing and other winter sports at the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. Read on for everything you need to know about what is going on at Ober in the winter time.
(See Also: 5 Reasons to Take a Christmas Vacation in a Smoky Mountain Cabin)
Snow Tubing at Ober Gatlinburg
Late November is the perfect time to go snow tubing at Ober Gatlinburg! This activity requires no prior experience; all you have to do is jump on an innertube and let gravity do the rest. Snow tubing at Ober is appropriate for everyone ages three and older, so your whole family can enjoy a day on the slopes.
Ober is open for snow tubing Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Weekday snow tubing sessions are $20 and weekend sessions are $25. Each session lasts one hour and thirty minutes.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Ober Gatlinburg
While the slopes are open for snow tubing in November, skiing and snowboarding season begins in the middle of December. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort has nine ski slopes to accommodate people of all levels of experience.
If you are coming with a large family or group of friends, you can take advantage of group rates for skiing. People who live nearby or who plan to visit the area several times during the winter can purchase an Ober Gatlinburg season pass. This not only gives you access to slopes but also added benefits such as unlimited ski lift rides and aerial tramway rides.
Other Activities at Ober Gatlinburg
Here are just a few of the other great things guests will enjoy when they visit Ober Gatlinburg this winter:
Ice Skating – The indoor ice skating arena is open year round. You can go skating for three hours for $9, which includes renting skates.
Aerial Tramway – Provides spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains. This ride will take you from downtown Gatlinburg to the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort in the most scenic route possible. The tramway is also a great way to avoid the hassle of driving to Ober.
Kiddie Land – A playground with tunnels, slides and ladders for your kids to enjoy.
Wildlife Encounter – See a variety of wild animals, including bear cubs, birds of prey, otters, and bobcats.
For more information about all of the seasonal fun, visit the official Ober Gatlinburg website:https://www.obergatlinburg.com
Where to Stay Near Ober Gatlinburg
Going skiing in Gatlinburg is just one of the many reasons to visit this beautiful area during the winter. Bear Camp Cabins offers a variety of comfortable and luxurious cabins in Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Pigeon Forge. Our cabins come in all sizes and have amenities such as hot tubs, Wi-Fi, fireplaces, game rooms and incredible mountain views. The particular features differ from cabin to cabin, so you can find a cabin with the perfect accommodations for your group. Give us a call today to book your getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains!
