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Top things to do in Gatlinburg, Tenn. – SkyLift Park
Set in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park features North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge – spanning ~700 feet across and 500 feet above the ground.
One of the top things to do in Gatlinburg, Tenn. is to experience Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – SkyBridge, SkyDeck, SkyTrail, and SkyCenter. The oldest and the top attraction in Gatlinburg, Tenn. provides the best views of the city and of the Smoky Mountains. While I was provided complimentary tickets to Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, opinions are always my own. And I highly recommend visiting Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
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The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers fun things to do for the entire family. Originally built in 1954, the Gatlinburg SkyLift chairlift operated through 2016 until a wildfire destroyed the gift shop, 90% of the trees on Crockett Mountain, and extensively damaged the SkyLift. It was rebuilt and fully functional the following year. Two years later, they added the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, SkyDeck, SkyCafe, SkyTrail, and SkyCenter at the top of the mountain.
SkyLift Park, an award-winning attraction, is the best thing to do in Gatlinburg, Tenn.
Here are the top five things to do at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
1.Ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift chair lift
You’ll enjoy a peaceful open-air chairlift ride up Crockett Mountain on the Gatlinburg SkyLift. That’s the only way for you to access the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, SkyDeck, SkyCenter, and SkyTrail.
2. Walk the 680-foot long Gatlinburg SkyBridge
Gatlinburg SkyBridge is about the same length as two football fields.
How long is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge? About two football fields or nearly 700 feet. How high up is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge? About 500 feet. How wide is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge? Five feet. And at the highest point, you’ll walk across about 30 feet of see-through glass (if you dare look down).
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge features 30 feet of see-through glass on the bridge.
3. Enjoy the scenic photo ops from the Gatlinburg SkyDeck
Enjoy panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg on the SkyDeck.
Admire the views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains on the amphitheater-style SkyDeck where you can take scenic photos.
4. Take a short hike on the SkyTrail
The short and scenic hike on the SkyTrail is only 0.6 miles roundtrip that connects both ends of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. Here you’ll find more gorgeous views as well as an elevated boardwalk with interpretative signs and a 70-foot Tulip Tower that you can access by two rope bridges. You’ll also find four elevated viewing platforms for more stunning views.
5. Shop, eat, and drink at the Gatlinburg SkyCenter and SkyCafe
You can grab a souvenir photo, other gifts, snacks, and beverages at the SkyCafe in the Gatlinburg SkyCenter. The second level even includes a full bar and indoor seating with beautiful views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.
Plan ahead to enjoy special events throughout the year at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – offering panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg.
New Year’s Eve fireworks viewing party
Love is in the Air (bridge lights in February)
St. Patrick’s Day fireworks viewing party
Fourth of July fireworks viewing party
Fall foliage season
Lights over Gatlinburg (winter lights)
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Here are a few frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – things to know before you go.
Where is Gatlinburg SkyLift Park located? Is parking available?
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park yellow chairlift
You can’t miss the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – just look for the bright yellow chairlift. Located at 765 Parkway in Gatlinburg, Tennessee (the main drag), you’ll need to find parking at one of the three public parking lots in the area or walk from your hotel if nearby.
Where can I purchase tickets for Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and SkyLift Bridge?
You can purchase tickets (wristbands) for Gatlinburg SkyLift Park online or in person. This gives you admission to the entire SkyLift Park attractions including the chairlift, the SkyLift Bridge, the SkyLift Deck, and SkyLift Center. You must ride the chairlift to access entry to the SkyLift Bridge.
Note that even if you purchase tickets in advance, you will need to line up in the queue. Tickets are good for all day – so make sure you check out the views from the SkyLift Deck and SkyLift Bridge during the day, at sunset, and at night. If you redeem your tickets after 8 p.m., you can access SkyLift Park the following day as well (make sure to keep your wristband on).
See the SkyLift Park website for current ticket prices for all age ranges. Also check out the combo ticket deal if you plan to visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not in Gatlinburg – located across the street.
What are the hours for Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is open every day with the exception of Christmas Day and Maintenance Week (Jan. 30 through Feb. 3). Note that the closing time is for the ticket booth. SkyLift Park closes one hour after the ticket booth closes.
Summer hours (end of May through Labor Day): 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Fall, winter, and spring hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Check the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park for reduced operating hours during fall and spring maintenance weeks, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.)
What are the social-distancing guidelines at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
How long should I plan to visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
Allow at least an hour to enjoy the SkyLift chairlift ride up and down Crockett Mountain, walk the SkyLift Bridge, enjoy the scenic Smoky Mountain views on the SkyDeck, hike the 0.6-mile SkyTrail, and shop and grab refreshments at SkyCafe. You can stay as little or as long as you want – and even leave and come back later in the day. Just remember to keep your wristband on.
How many people can ride in the SkyLift chairlift?
The Gatlinburg SkyLift chairlift can seat up to three people comfortably, but you may also ride up as a pair or single.
Are there minimum height or age requirements for the Gatlinburg SkyLift chairlift?
No minimum height or age requirements to ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift chairlift. However, babies must ride in a baby harness attached to a parent and toddlers must ride in a parent’s lap. Children ages 3 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times while visiting Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
Can you drive up to the Gatlinburg SkyBridge?
No, the only way to access the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is by riding up the SkyLift.
Are strollers allowed at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
No, strollers are not allowed at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
Is Gatlinburg SkyLift Park dog-friendly?
Yes, leashed (and well-behaved) dogs are allowed to ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park chairlift and access other areas of the park.
Is photography allowed at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
Absolutely! You’ll appreciate the beautiful panoramic photo-ops at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. However, drones are not allowed.
Is Gatlinburg SkyLift Park wheelchair-accessible?
Many areas of Gatlinburg SkyLift Park are wheelchair-accessible. Please check the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park website to learn more about their ADA accommodations.
Does Gatlinburg SkyLift Park have a restaurant?
Yes, Gatlinburg SkyCafe offers snacks such as pizza, hot dogs, salads, wraps, etc. and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. You’ll find a full bar on the second level in the SkyCenter with great views.
Is seating available at the top of the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park?
Gatlinburg SkyDeck is a great place to grab a snack and beverage and take in the scenic views of the Smoky Mountains.
Yes, you’ll find lots of amphitheater seating and charming Adirondack chairs on the Gatlinburg SkyDeck to take in the sweeping views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Visitors also enjoy the waterfall and firepit.
Does Gatlinburg SkyLift Park have restrooms?
Yes, you’ll find restrooms at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Center.
Does Gatlinburg SkyLift Park have a gift shop?
Yes, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park has a gift shop at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Center (as well as online store).
Fun Facts about Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Here are a few fun facts about Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is the oldest attraction in Gatlinburg – operating since 1954.
It’s the first four-season chairlift in the South.
The chairlift takes you up 1,800 feet above sea level overlooking Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.
At nearly 700 feet across, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America.
Thirty feet of the SkyBridge includes see-through glass flooring. I saw a few people scared of heights turn back as they did not want to walk over the glass. I felt safe crossing it; however, if you are scared of heights, you may want to enjoy the views prior to reaching that point of the bridge.
The SkyBridge sits 500 feet above Gatlinburg.
At five feet wide, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge allows people to walk both ways.
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Twin Cities-based blogger sharing memorable emptynester, solo, family and girlfriend-getaway adventures, as well as my day hiking adventures (including all 66 Minnesota state parks), latest book reviews, and updates on my quest for the best adult mac and cheese.
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64 comments
You had me at the Skybridge Karen! I’ve never heard of this park, but it’s so unique, and the deck’s a perfect place to see all the views.
Sign me up! The view of the lift from the bottom looks so cool! I would struggle over the clear part of the bridge but I’d try to look straight ahead on that section. Haha. Sitting in one of those deck chairs looks so relaxing and a great way to end a day there!
That SkyBridge looks fun, Karen. But 700ft long, a mere 6ft wide, involving just a few tiny wires to keep it up in the air… and to top it all off they added a glass floor section… rather adventurous…
Now that you did the math, it does sound a little adventurous! I did feel safe, however, crossing the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. But some people needed to turn around especially when they saw the glass flooring panels.
How have I never heard of the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park before? What a neat place! This is right down my alley; I love being outside, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful weather, and I’m a huge fan of heights! That bridge looks like so much fun, and I can only imagine how gorgeous it is in the fall. I will definitely be adding this to my bucket list :). Thanks so much for opening my eyes to a new adventure! Xx Sara
I have not heard of Gatinburg skylift park before, but looks like a cool place! I would love to take the chairlift and walk the sky bridge. I would love the thrill of walking the glass floor too. The views must be awesome from such a high place. Love your images. 🙂
The glass section of the SkyBridge is pretty cool, but can understand it may freak some people out. You can still enjoy stunning views at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and on the SkyDeck.
I know I would love to go to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The bridge however, I will go on as long as it’s not shacking too much. I’m not a big fan of heights.
What beautiful views from the Gatlinburg Skydeck, I would enjoy sitting in those chairs taking in the vista. The Skybridge looks a bit scary but I would love to do walk across it though.
This looks like so much fun! We’ve been to the area a few times, but we’ve never done this. I really want to do the Skylift Bridge. And the views down on Gatlinburg look cool. I’m putting this on my list!
A ride in the Gatlinburg SkyLift chair lift or a stroll across the Skybridge look a bit hair-raising for someone who is afraid of heights, but I’d totally suck it up for a glimpse of those beautiful views! I’d love to visit one day! Thanks for the great guide!
I think it could be a bit adventurous for anyone scared of heights. We loved our visit to Gatlinburg SkyLift Park especially the chairlift and the SkyBridge with stunning views.
I had never heard about this place, but I am glad I discovered it. The Gatlinburg SkyLift chair lift seems to be so much fun 🙂 I would love to visit this place one day.
Wow I’d never heard of SkyLift Park in Gatlinburg! The skybridge sounds like so much fun. I can be a bit nervous with heights, but I think it’d be so cool to walk over the glass portion. Great guide, thanks for sharing!
We would definitely visit Gatlinburg in Tennessee if only for the SkyLift Park. A great way to get an amazing view of the Smokey Mountains. I would have no trouble looking down through the glass on the SkyBridge! Sounds like a great fun way to spend the day.
I visited Gatlinburg years ago, but we never visited SkyLift Park! I’d love to go back to Gatlinburg to experience this. What a unique place to visit with great views of the gorgeous surrounding landscape. Thanks for sharing this super helpful guide!
Ooo, thanks for putting this together! I’ve never been to Tennessee but it’s definitely on my list — I’d love to check out the Smoky Mountains! The SkyLift and SkyBridge would be awesome to check out!
Thank you and my pleasure. I loved my road trip around Tennessee especially the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. I want to return and hike in the Smoky Mountains.
You had me at the Skybridge Karen! I’ve never heard of this park, but it’s so unique, and the deck’s a perfect place to see all the views.
Awesome…I highly recommend Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Loved the SkyBridge and the views…best thing to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
I love a good skybridge. There are so many worldwide I’d like to visit!
Me too – that would be an epic adventure challenge. Highly recommend the Gatlinburg SkyBridge in Tennessee…great views of the Smokies!
Sign me up! The view of the lift from the bottom looks so cool! I would struggle over the clear part of the bridge but I’d try to look straight ahead on that section. Haha. Sitting in one of those deck chairs looks so relaxing and a great way to end a day there!
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is so cool and especially loved the SkyBridge. Such great views from the SkyDeck.
This looks so fun! I always hesitate for a second on glass floors but then it is such a cool experience. Thanks for sharing all the tips!
Thank you and my pleasure! Those glass floors can be a little unnerving, but felt completely safe on the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. Sunny beautiful views!
That SkyBridge looks fun, Karen. But 700ft long, a mere 6ft wide, involving just a few tiny wires to keep it up in the air… and to top it all off they added a glass floor section… rather adventurous…
Now that you did the math, it does sound a little adventurous! I did feel safe, however, crossing the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. But some people needed to turn around especially when they saw the glass flooring panels.
Wow, the sky trail looks incredibly cool! And i’d love the opportunity to get on the chair lift too, the views must be magnificent!
The views are magnificent throughout Gatlinburg’s SkyLift Park! The chairlift to the top is fun as is walking the SkyTrail and the SkyBridge.
How have I never heard of the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park before? What a neat place! This is right down my alley; I love being outside, hiking, and enjoying the beautiful weather, and I’m a huge fan of heights! That bridge looks like so much fun, and I can only imagine how gorgeous it is in the fall. I will definitely be adding this to my bucket list :). Thanks so much for opening my eyes to a new adventure! Xx Sara
Thank you and my pleasure! SkyLift Park in Gatlinburg sounds like it was made for you! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
I would each of these attractions!! That skybridge is beautiful and the views from the Skydeck are incredible! Such a beautiful area of the country!
Thank you! All five of these attractions at SkyLift Park in Gatlinburg are fun things to do. Especially love the views from the SkyBridge and SkyLift.
Gatlinburg looks like a fantastic place to visit! I would love to take the chairlift and also check out the views from the SkyDeck. Added to my list!
Awesome! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is so fun – great views from the SkyBridge and SkyDeck.
I have not heard of Gatinburg skylift park before, but looks like a cool place! I would love to take the chairlift and walk the sky bridge. I would love the thrill of walking the glass floor too. The views must be awesome from such a high place. Love your images. 🙂
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is a very cool place! Highly recommend!
We would love to go on the SkyBridge. Hunter is a big fan of bridges.
Then Gatlinburg SkyLift would be perfect for you guys. I especially loved the SkyBridge- so many stunning views.
The bridge might freak me out a little bit with the glass bottom! Gatlinburg has some fun things to do for sure!
The glass section of the SkyBridge is pretty cool, but can understand it may freak some people out. You can still enjoy stunning views at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and on the SkyDeck.
I know I would love to go to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The bridge however, I will go on as long as it’s not shacking too much. I’m not a big fan of heights.
I think you and your family would enjoy Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The bridge is pretty sturdy…I felt very safe.
What beautiful views from the Gatlinburg Skydeck, I would enjoy sitting in those chairs taking in the vista. The Skybridge looks a bit scary but I would love to do walk across it though.
Such beautiful views from Gatlinburg SkyLift Park in Tennessee. The bridge can seem a little daunting, but rewarding.
This looks like so much fun! We’ve been to the area a few times, but we’ve never done this. I really want to do the Skylift Bridge. And the views down on Gatlinburg look cool. I’m putting this on my list!
Yay…so happy to hear! I hope you enjoy Gatlinburg SkyLift Park as much as I did. The views from the SkyBridge are stunning.
We were just in Gatlinburg last year and went to the Skylift Park. The kids really loved the clear sections of the bridge.
Awesome! I loved Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and thought the glass sections were pretty cool.
That looks soooo COOL! We would definitely enjoy a visit to the Gatlinburg Skylift park! Will be adding it to my list!
I know you and your family would love SkyLift Park. It’s the best thing to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
A ride in the Gatlinburg SkyLift chair lift or a stroll across the Skybridge look a bit hair-raising for someone who is afraid of heights, but I’d totally suck it up for a glimpse of those beautiful views! I’d love to visit one day! Thanks for the great guide!
I think it could be a bit adventurous for anyone scared of heights. We loved our visit to Gatlinburg SkyLift Park especially the chairlift and the SkyBridge with stunning views.
I had never heard about this place, but I am glad I discovered it. The Gatlinburg SkyLift chair lift seems to be so much fun 🙂 I would love to visit this place one day.
I hope you get the opportunity to visit Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. It is a great way to see some beautiful views.
Wow I’d never heard of SkyLift Park in Gatlinburg! The skybridge sounds like so much fun. I can be a bit nervous with heights, but I think it’d be so cool to walk over the glass portion. Great guide, thanks for sharing!
Thank you and my pleasure! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is super cool with lots of fun things to do. And the views are amazing.
We would definitely visit Gatlinburg in Tennessee if only for the SkyLift Park. A great way to get an amazing view of the Smokey Mountains. I would have no trouble looking down through the glass on the SkyBridge! Sounds like a great fun way to spend the day.
Awesome! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is a great way to enjoy some stunning views.
Glad I am not afraid of heights. This trip might pose a problem otherwise. Looks like a lot of great opportunities for pictures though!
So true! Lots of great photo ops at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
Wauw looks amazing! And the panoramic view looks absolutely stunning. Would love to visit this one day!
Thank you! I hope you get the opportunity to experience Gatlinburg SkyLift Park in your future travels.
Really enjoyed this Karen. I’d never heard of it but sounds like there is so much to do, and the views from the terrace are amazing.
Thank you, Bea! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is fun for the entire family.
I visited Gatlinburg years ago, but we never visited SkyLift Park! I’d love to go back to Gatlinburg to experience this. What a unique place to visit with great views of the gorgeous surrounding landscape. Thanks for sharing this super helpful guide!
Thank you and my pleasure. Highly recommend SkyLift Park and the SkyBridge the next time you visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
This looks like so much fun! I love riding chairs up the mountain, even (especially!) in summer. I really love the bridge. What incredible views!
Thank you! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and the SkyBridge were so much fun and offered stunning views.
This is great info! I’m planning on visiting Gatlinburg this spring so this is timely.
That’s perfect timing! I hope you enjoy Gatlinburg SkyLift Park as much as I did! Great views!
I love that it’s dog friendly! This is def going on my list of things to visit when we go!!
I thought that was awesome to learn the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park was dog-friendly. I hope you get the opportunity to visit.
My husband and I were just talking last night about how beautiful TN was! Gatlinburg SkyLift Park looks amazing!
Tennessee is so beautiful! Loved the views at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.
Ooo, thanks for putting this together! I’ve never been to Tennessee but it’s definitely on my list — I’d love to check out the Smoky Mountains! The SkyLift and SkyBridge would be awesome to check out!
Thank you and my pleasure. I loved my road trip around Tennessee especially the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. I want to return and hike in the Smoky Mountains.
Wow that looks like such a fun park! Although I feel like I’d be doing it on my own cause all my friends are terrified of heights :p
Thank you! Loved Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. It’s a fun place to visit solo! 😂
Your article makes me so excited to visit the Smoky Mountains and Tennessee! Gatlinburg looks quite amazing and fun!
Thank you! Especially loved SkyLift Park in Gatlinburg for the great views of the Smoky Mountains.