Ober Gatlinburg plays host to the Ski Mountain Coaster, a gravity-powered mountain coaster that the whole family can enjoy.
If you’re interested in finding out more about this ride then you’ve come to the right place.
We provide everything you need to know so keep reading to find out.
One of the fastest alpine coasters on offer, this ride reaches a speed of up to 25mp/h (40km/h). The Ski Mountain Coaster is 3,750 feet (1,143m) in length and offers riders an exhilarating ride with multiple 360-degree loops, twists and turns as it winds its way through the forest and down the mountain. The total ride time (including the cable-pulled ascent) is approximately 5 minutes.
The entire Ski Mountain Coaster experience is made up of two parts. Riders leave the loading station and enjoy a 1,000 ft. tree-covered and relaxing cable-pulled ascent to the top of the mountain. Riders are able to enjoy the beautiful scenery while watching their fellow riders descend down the mountain. As soon as the rider reaches the top, the cart is released from the cable system and gravity takes over. This is when the fun begins!
For the next 2,750 feet, the rider enjoys the exhilarating speed as the coaster turns, dips and corkscrews its way back to the starting point.
The cart takes 3:30 to reach the top of the mountain and 1:40 to reach the bottom (if you don’t use the brakes).
It is worth noting that this mountain coaster operates all year round. Rain, snow and sunshine! Each season provides a completely different ride experience.
What are Mountain Coasters?
If you’re unfamiliar with mountain coasters (also known as alpine coasters) then check out this post we wrote here.
Mountain coasters are a fantastic activity that the whole family can enjoy. However, given the nature of this ride, there are age and height restrictions that apply, these have been detailed below. A great feature of mountain coasters is that they offer the option of two seats.
This is great for parents with children too young to go on the ride themselves.
In addition, mountain coasters are equipped with a manual brake which enables riders to adjust the speed of their descent. This unique feature of mountain coasters allows riders to have greater control of their experience. If things get a bit too fast for your liking you can apply the brake, if you’re more of the daredevil type then leave the brake untouched for maximum speed.
Another great feature of mountain coasters is that no prior experience or training is necessary. You can just jump in and enjoy the ride.
Ski Mountain Coaster – What to Expect
We’ve selected this video of the Ski Mountain Coaster for you to have a look at in advance. Think of it as a “try before you buy”.
If this doesn’t get you excited (and maybe a little nervous) then we don’t know what will.
How much does the Ski Mountain Coaster cost?
The Ski Mountain Coaster offers a number of different ticket options for you to take advantage of. A breakdown of these different options and the related price is given below:
| Ride | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult single rider (per ride) | $16 |
| Child single rider (ages 5-11) | $12 |
Children between the age of 3 and 4 ride free with an adult. This is a good deal compared to almost all other mountain coasters where passengers are required to pay.
Please note that an Ober Gatlinburg All-Inclusive Wristband is inclusive of one ride on the Ski Mountain Coaster. Additional rides must be paid for.
Height and Age Restrictions
The key height and age restrictions to ride the Ski Mountain Coaster are listed below:
- Children must be at least 3 years old and 36″ (92cm) tall.
- The minimum age for single riders is 9 years or older and the rider must be at least 52″ (132cm) tall.
- Children under 9 must be accompanied by someone 18 years or older.
- If there are two people riding together, the minimum height for the passenger is 36″ (92cm) and the person driving the cart must be at least 52″ (132cm) and 18 years or older.
- The maximum weight per cart is 330 lbs (150 kg).
- The ride is not safe for pregnant women.
Contact Information and Website
Phone: 865-436-5423
Website: To access the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Mountain Coaster website click here.
Operating hours: Open every day from 10 am – 6 pm
Map: To get to the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Mountain Coaster take a look at the map below.
