While Great Smoky Mountains National Park is certainly known for its wonderful and diverse selection of hiking trails, one of the most unique places to hike is right here in downtown Gatlinburg! Gatlinburg SkyPark is home to 1.5 miles of pristine hiking trails that start at the top of a mountain and offer spectacular views of the surrounding area! Here are the top 4 reasons why Gatlinburg SkyPark is the coolest place to hike in the Smokies:
1. Elevated Hiking Trails
When we say that Gatlinburg SkyPark is the coolest place to hike in the Smokies, we mean that literally! The SkyTrail system is situated at the top of Crockett Mountain, which is approximately 1,800 feet above sea level, so you’ll find much milder temperatures than in the valley below!
The trails start in the heart of Gatlinburg SkyPark at Clayton’s Landing and offer breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, so get ready to capture some of the best photos of your vacation!
2. Half the Fun is Getting There
If you ever heard that “half the fun is getting there”, this is definitely true when heading to the hiking trails at Gatlinburg SkyPark! To access the peak of Crockett Mountain, you’ll take a ride on the SkyLift, which departs from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. Throughout the 10-minute ride on the iconic yellow chairlift, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the picturesque scenery before arriving at the top! The Gatlinburg SkyLift was the first four-season scenic chairlift in the South when it opened in 1954 and is now the longest-running attraction in Gatlinburg!
3. Natural Wonders to Explore
While exploring the hiking trails at Gatlinburg SkyPark, you’ll find a variety of natural wonders that make the Smoky Mountains so special! In fact, every step is a reminder of the rich biodiversity that thrives in this protected wilderness!
Every season has something to offer, ranging from the gorgeous wildflowers of the spring months to the incredible fall foliage colors! Remember to keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls these mountains home, including some of the black bear neighbors!
4. No Additional Fees Required to Hike the Trails
There are no additional fees to hike the trails at Gatlinburg SkyPark as they are included with your park admission! You’ll also have access to the Skylift and SkyBridge, as well as another hiking opportunity along the SkyTrail! This trail features an elevated boardwalk that traces the ridge behind the SkyBridge, complete with signage about the SkyBridge's engineering, the history of the Gatlinburg SkyLift, and the 2016 wildfires that swept through Crockett Mountain.
Don’t miss the Tulip Tower, a striking 70-foot steel edifice just off the SkyTrail that beckons adventurers with 4 viewing platforms that are accessed via 2 rope bridges!
Book a Condo in Downtown Gatlinburg
Check out all of our vacation rentals in Gatlinburg TN today to stay close to Gatlinburg SkyPark and all of the other exciting attractions throughout the Smoky Mountains! We look forward to seeing you soon!
