Taking a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from the north will take you through Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Both locations offer plenty of hotels and resort options, tourist attractions, and dinning. One great tourist attraction found in Gatlinburg is the Sky Lift. The Sky Lift takes anyone willing to ride the chairlift to the top for a breath taking view of the mountains.

What to Expect from the Sky Lift

A small building in downtown Gatlinburg is the home of the Sky Lift ticket sales. Each person riding the lift must first purchase a ticket from the office. Once purchased, the ticket is good for one ride anytime during the day. Hop in line and wait your turn with your camera ready (wrist strap securely fastened) and board the lift.

The chairlift takes visitors from downtown Gatlinburg high atop Crockett Mountain (1,800 feet) proclaiming it to be “Gatlinburg’s #1 Scenic Overlook,” (Gatlinburg Sky Lift, 2011). Going up the mountain it is difficult for sightseeing since visitors face the mountain, but on the way down many photo ops await as you descend.

At the top of the lift, attendants help guest off of the chairlift where they are free to view the mountains, browse the small gift shop, or eat a snack such as ice cream or drinks that are available for purchase.

Looking south visitors can enjoy the beauty of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park with spectacular views of the forest and below at the hustle and bustle of Gatlinburg.

Tips on Taking the Sky Lift

Tip #1: Avoid long lines and wait for a less busy time of the day. If the lift is crowded then the viewing platform will also be crowded. It is not as spacious up on the mountain as desired, so choose a good time to go so you can sit and enjoy the view.

Tip #2: For a small fee you can turn your ticket into an all day ride ticket. The lift typically opens at 9 am so you can see the low lying fog in the valleys and then return later in the day to see the mountains, and then again at night to see Gatlinburg all lit up nestled in the valley of the mountains.

Tip #3: Ask about discounts such as military or veteran and look for discount coupons in local coupon books before going. Group rate are available for groups of 15 or more people. Saving money is always a great option.

Tip #4: Don’t forget to pack your camera and binoculars to use while on the viewing platform. Just keep them secured while on the chairlift!

Tip #5: Near the top of the lift, smile for the camera. Yes, the company offers souvenir photos while you are riding the Sky Lift. Don’t forget to view the picture before heading down the mountain–it may be one you can’t live without.

Taking the Sky Lift to the top of Crockett Mountain will provide a lasting memory and beautiful sights of The Great Smoky Mountains.

Feel free to share your tips and advice about visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or The Great Smoky Mountain National Park below. We would love to hear about your vacation experiences.