Snow Tubing at Ober Gatlinburg: No Skills Required
Snow Tubing at Ober Gatlinburg: A Family-Friendly Winter Adventure
Perched on Mt. Harrison above Gatlinburg, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area offers an exciting snow tubing experience that requires no special skills—just the ability to sit back, hold on, and enjoy the ride. This activity provides a fun and accessible way for the entire family to enjoy the snow together.
The snow tubing hill typically opens around Thanksgiving and remains operational through Easter, often making it one of the first winter attractions available each season—even before the main ski slopes are ready.
Snow tubing is exactly as it sounds: participants sit in inflatable tubes and glide down a snowy slope before being gently brought to a stop at the bottom. Thanks to a convenient "Magic Carpet" lift, riders are transported back to the top of the hill with ease, ready to go again. The simplicity and thrill of the activity have made it a favorite winter pastime in the Gatlinburg area.
To ensure reliable snow conditions, Ober Gatlinburg utilizes a combination of natural snowfall and advanced snowmaking systems. Snow is created using tower-mounted snow guns that disperse fine, powdery flakes similar in texture to natural snow. The resort also incorporates SnowMagic technology, which freezes water before releasing it into the air, allowing snow to be produced even before temperatures fall consistently below freezing. The process uses no chemicals and results in nothing but water runoff when the snow eventually melts.
Unlike skiing or snowboarding, which often require lessons and specialized gear, snow tubing at Ober Gatlinburg is an easy and inclusive activity suitable for nearly all ages. Tubes are provided by the resort, and the only real requirement is enthusiasm. Children aged 3 to 5 must ride with an adult, and height guidelines apply for solo riders.
Each tubing session lasts 90 minutes, giving guests ample time for multiple runs. Due to its popularity, especially on weekends and holidays, walk-up ticket holders may experience extended wait times. To guarantee your spot and minimize delays, it is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance through the official Ober Gatlinburg website. There, you can also access current pricing and download the required participation waiver.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, snow tubing at Ober Gatlinburg promises laughter, adventure, and lasting memories in a beautiful mountain setting.