Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains area boast a spectacular selection of mountaintop attractions that offer stunning views, exciting activities, and unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to soak in the natural splendor, these attractions promise a memorable addition to your Smoky Mountain getaway! Keep reading to learn more about the mountaintop attractions in Gatlinburg and the Smokies that you won’t want to miss.
1. Anakeesta
One of the popular mountaintop attractions in Gatlinburg is Anakeesta. This attraction offers a unique escape high above downtown. Your adventure starts with a scenic ride on the Chondola, which has both gondola cabins and open-air chairs. At the top, Firefly Village welcomes you with charming shops, delightful culinary treats, and outdoor adventures. For thrill-seekers, the mountain coasters deliver an exhilarating gravity-powered ride winding through the lush forest, perfect for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush! Grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants to savor tasty food while taking in sweeping views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Explore the botanical gardens at Anakeesta for a tranquil retreat surrounded by nature's beauty. Other activities at this Gatlinburg attraction include the Dueling Zipline Adventure, Treetop Skywalk, AnaVista Tower, gem mining, treehouse play areas, and more!
2. Gatlinburg SkyPark
For unparalleled views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains, visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark–one of the most iconic attractions in Gatlinburg! Your visit begins with a ride on the scenic chairlift up the side of the mountain. From there, you can walk across the iconic SkyBridge, North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. From the SkyBridge, take a hike on the SkyTrail, which follows along the hillside of the ravine and features interactive signage. Head over to the SkyDeck to grab a drink and take in breathtaking views of the sprawling scenery from high above the town, ideal for photography enthusiasts eager to capture the beautiful Smoky Mountain landscape. The Gatlinburg SkyPark promises a fun adventure for those who seek the thrill of traversing new heights, making it a must-visit for an elevated exploration experience!
3. Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain is another one of the mountaintop attractions in Gatlinburg situated above downtown. It offers the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility. Ride the aerial tramway to the top and enjoy beautiful views as you soar more than 1,000 feet in the air! At the top, thrill-seekers enjoy the alpine slide, mountain coaster, and zipline. There are also plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as ice skating, chair swings, jump pillow, carousel, and Spider Jump. Stop by the Wildlife Habitat to see Smoky Mountain wildlife up close, including black bears, otters, bobcats, foxes, birds, reptiles, and more! In summer, you can go mountain biking on the downhill slopes. Ober Mountain in winter offers snowsports like skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.
4. SkyLand Ranch
SkyLand Ranch is a mountaintop attraction in Sevierville that provides an engaging blend of entertainment and pastoral charm. A scenic chairlift ride unveils breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic mountains and town below. At the top of this Western-themed attraction, you can meet adorable animals such as miniature horses, miniature donkeys, miniature cows, goats, and more! Live music performances and special events add to the vibrant atmosphere. There are plenty of activities suitable for all ages, ranging from scenic walks to fun playgrounds and gem mining to the exciting WagonWheeler Swing Tower. When you get hungry, grab a bite to eat or a sweet treat from the cafe. SkyLand Ranch is also home to The Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster–the longest mountain coaster in the Southeast!
5. Kuwohi
One of the most captivating mountaintop attractions in the Smoky Mountains is Kuwohi. Connect with the region's natural beauty from an elevated perspective, with cool mountain air and panoramic views creating an unforgettable experience. At 6,643 feet, Kuwohi is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the state of Tennessee! To reach the observation tower at the top, you’ll hike up a paved half-mile trail. It’s a steep path, but there are benches along the way where you can catch your breath and take in the scenery. From the observation tower, you can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain landscape, stretching as far as 100 miles on a clear day!
More Attractions in Gatlinburg and the Smokies You Need to Visit
You’ll love visiting these mountaintop attractions in Gatlinburg and the Smokies to experience breathtaking views and exciting activities! Are you looking for more things to do during your vacation? Make sure you visit these must-see attractions in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains!
