Duration
1-2 hours (longer if hiking the full SkyTrail to Tulip Tower)
Price
$25.95-$39.95 per person (kids 5 and under free)
Best For
Families with kids 6+ • Couples seeking mountain views • Adventure seekers who want scenic thrills
Pro Tip
Head to SkyCenter's second-floor bar seating area for the best uncrowded views and grab a drink while everyone else crowds the main SkyDeck below.
About SkyCenter
The yellow chairlift to SkyCenter provides a scenic 10-minute journey up Crockett Mountain to 1,800 feet elevation, offering consistently stunning panoramic views. The main attraction is North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge, stretching an impressive 680 feet across the mountainside.
SkyBridge features glass-floor panels that create an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages - children particularly enjoy testing their courage on the transparent sections while families capture memorable photos. The souvenir chairlift photos, available for an additional fee, continue a beloved tradition dating back to the 1950s.
SkyCenter's dining options include casual pizza service and a second-floor bar area that typically offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling main observation deck. Adventure seekers can tackle the 1.5-mile SkyTrail hike leading to Tulip Tower for those seeking additional exploration.
Adult admission is $39.95, providing full access to all mountaintop attractions and facilities. The experience transforms after dark when visitors gather around fire pits to watch Gatlinburg's lights twinkle in the valley below, creating a truly magical atmosphere that showcases the area's natural beauty from this unique elevated perspective.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
SkyBridge Suspension Bridge
At 680 feet long, this is North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. The glass-floor panels in the middle will test your nerves, but the mountain views are incredible. Our kids love bouncing on them while we grab photos.
Yellow Chairlift Ride
The iconic 10-minute ride up Crockett Mountain has been running since the 1950s. No safety bar means you'll want to secure loose items, but the gradual climb gives you amazing views of Gatlinburg below.
SkyTrail Hiking System
This 1.5-mile trail network leads to Tulip Tower and gives you a real mountain hiking experience. We recommend going counterclockwise to hit the tower first when you've got the most energy.
SkyDeck Viewing Area
The main observation deck at 1,800 feet gives you panoramic Smoky Mountain views. It gets crowded, but there's plenty of space to find your own spot for photos and just taking in the scenery.
SkyCenter Cafe and Bar
The mountaintop facility has pizza, snacks, drinks, and a full bar. The second-floor seating area is our secret spot - way less crowded than the main deck with the same amazing views.
Nighttime Fire Pit Experience
After dark, they light fire pits on the deck and all of Gatlinburg twinkles below you. It's honestly magical and totally different from the daytime experience - definitely worth staying for.
Know Before You Go
- Parking fills up fast during peak season - arrive early or walk from downtown Gatlinburg
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layers since it's cooler at 1,800 feet elevation
- Tickets are cash or card at the base station, no advance purchase needed
- Weather can shut down operations so check conditions before heading over
- Chairlift has no safety bar so secure loose items and hold onto small children
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsSkyCenter receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
SkyCenter Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit SkyCenter
Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for SkyCenter?
SkyCenter operates year-round with seasonal hour variations, including nighttime rides. We recommend checking their official website before visiting since weather can affect operations.
How much does SkyCenter cost?
Adult tickets are $39.95, kids 6-11 pay $25.95, and seniors 65+ get tickets for $32.95. Children 5 and under ride free, and your ticket includes access to everything up top.
Do I need reservations for SkyCenter?
No reservations required - it's first-come, first-served. Just show up and buy tickets at the base station, though lines can get long during peak times.
How long should I spend at SkyCenter?
Plan on 1-2 hours total. That includes the 10-minute chairlift ride each way, time on SkyBridge, and exploring SkyTrail if you're up for the hike.
Is SkyCenter good for kids?
Kids 6 and up love it, especially the glass panels on the bridge. The chairlift has no safety bar though, so you'll need to keep little ones secure during the ride.
Is there parking at SkyCenter?
Yes, there's parking at the base station in downtown Gatlinburg. It fills up during peak times, so we suggest arriving early or walking from nearby attractions.
Is the SkyBridge scary to cross?
The glass panels definitely give you that stomach-drop feeling, but the bridge is completely stable. Our kids bounce on them while some adults stick to the solid sections.
Can you ride the chairlift at night?
Yes! Night rides are some of our favorites - you'll see all of Gatlinburg lit up below, plus they have fire pits going at the top for a cozy mountain vibe.
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More great places in Gatlinburg
We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
SkyCenter receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
765 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
765 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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