Tennessee Ski Vacations

Located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski resort in the state. It is more than just a ski resort, however. It is a complete family vacation spot with an amusement park, indoor ice skating, a bungee tower, an alpine slide, and many other activities and attractions - there is something to please everyone. Gatlinburg is a lovely town in the valley that offers quaint cottages for rent.

Many honeymooners have rented these quiet and secluded getaways so they could have time to themselves and enjoy some skiing. With an elevation of 3,301 feet, and a vertical drop of 600 feet, Ober Gatlinburg features eight trails: two beginner trails, four intermediate trails, and two advanced trails. There are three lifts, including two quad lifts, one double lift, and one surface lift.

The season runs from the middle of December through early March, and night skiing is allowed on all trails except the Grizzly trail. Rentals are available for both ski equipment and snowboarding equipment. Private and group lessons for skiing and snowboarding are also available through the Smokey Mountain Snow Sport School.

You can also easily find food at the many snack bars, food carts, the café, the restaurant, or in the lounge. You must not miss the longest chair lift ride in the south! You will see awesome views of the Great Smoky Mountains. You will also get a bird's eye view of some of the slopes, and you can have your picture taken on top of the mountain. If you don't ski, don't worry! You can ride back down the mountain on the chair lift as well. Even if you don't ski, you can still explore the thrill of flying down a mountain at a high speed - or a slow speed if you choose. This is possible with the Alpine Slide.

The slide is approximately 1,800 feet long, and takes you down a winding wooded slope. You have total control over your speed with the use of a braking device on each sled. Other attractions at the amusement park include the Black Bear Habitat, a bungee jump, a water race, go karts, indoor ice skating, kiddie land, an arcade, miniature golf, a Spider Web Velcro Wall Jump, water rides, and a shooting range. No matter what type of fun or adventure you are seeking, there is something to satisfy everyone in the family at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park.

This is definitely a trip worth taking - especially if you have younger kids or senior citizens traveling with you. .

By: Ethan Dougan