Everything You Need to Know About Riding the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

tram at Ober Gatlinburg

When it comes to the perfect way to experience the Smoky Mountains, there is nothing like a ride on the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway! This iconic cable car ride takes guests on a scenic 2.1 mile journey from downtown Gatlinburg to the Ober Gatlinburg amusement park and ski area. While soaring 11,000 feet above Gatlinburg, there are breathtaking views that can be seen in every direction! Here is everything that you need to know about riding the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway:

1. What to Expect

Ober Gatlinburg sign

The Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway is not just a convenient way to access Ober Gatlinburg, but a scenic attraction that carries more than 3,000 guests daily! The cable car departs regularly at 20-minute intervals from downtown Gatlinburg at Parkway and LeConte Street. After boarding one of the two 120-passenger counter-balanced cars, get ready for your exciting descent up the mountain! This is a fun activity that family members of all ages can enjoy, from young children to grandparents. Don’t forget to bring your camera or cell phone along to take the best pictures of your vacation!

2. Ticket Information

Tickets for the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway are an excellent value, and there are separate ticket prices for adults and children ages 5 to 11. If you have kids that are 4 years old and younger, they get to ride for free! All tickets include a roundtrip ride, and you can purchase Aerial Tramway tickets online or at the lower terminal in downtown Gatlinburg station. If you have driven to the top of the mountain, you can also purchase tickets there and start your roundtrip ride from the top.

3. Hours of Operation

The tramway is open daily from 9:40 a.m. to 9 p.m., but be sure to confirm the hours prior to your visit. The operating hours are subject to change due to weather conditions or other concerns. Due to the popularity of the tramway, it is recommended that you arrive as early as possible during holiday periods and on weekends. 

4. History of the Tramway

The history of the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway dates back to 1972 when it was decided that there needed to be a safer and more comfortable way to reach the ski area. Just as simple as that, the Aerial Tramway was born and completed in August of 1973! Since that time, the tram has carried millions of delighted guests to Ober Gatlinburg!

bearadise cabin in gatlinburg tennesseeWhere to Stay

Stay just minutes away from the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway with a vacation at Chalet Village! Our affordable cabins have everything you need for a relaxing getaway! That includes comfortable bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, bubbling hot tubs, fireplaces and much more! Whether you are planning a romantic getaway for two or a large family reunion, we have cabins of all sizes to meet your needs!

Check out all of our cabins in Gatlinburg TN today to enjoy a wonderful vacation near the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway! We look forward to seeing you soon at Chalet Village!