Posted by Jon Hoffman in Gatlinburg
When Sevier County businessman Joe Baker purchased Ober Gatlinburg, he aimed to do more than just upgrade it. He and his two local partners planned to transform the iconic ski resort into a world-class attraction offering family-friendly fun all year 'round.
Now they're doing exactly that. Rebranded as Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area, the Gatlinburg landmark already boasts brand-new snowmaking equipment, a totally renovated restaurant, plus a downhill mountain biking course (new as of 2023).
And that's just for starters.
Ober Mountain's ski season typically ends in mid-March, although exact closing dates vary depending on weather conditions. If you're headed to the slopes this year before the season's end, be prepared for more snowy fun than ever before.
In 2023, Ober Mountain invested $4 million into new snowmaking equipment. Now the ski area has added a heaping helping of fresh, powdery snow and opened additional trails for skiing and snowtubing. Be sure to book ahead to get in on all the enjoyment.
If you visited Ober Mountain in years past, you may remember Seasons of Ober, a traditional fine-dining restaurant with a breathtaking mountain view.
Today the spectacular view remains but everything else has been completely transformed. Now the updated dining area boasts a relaxing casual vibe, with a fresh new coat of paint, sleek mid-century furnishings, and several cozy conversation areas. Sectional sofa seating and comfortable armchairs cluster around the massive fireplace, providing the perfect spot for hanging out with friends and family. There's even a professional stage for updated live entertainment.
As for the food, it's all the scrumptious après-ski fare you love, perfect for laid-back noshing while you enjoy the eye-popping view.
How would you like to zoom down meticulously maintained trails amid magnificent mountain scenery?
That's what awaits you at Ober Mountain's new Downhill Mountain Biking Course, slated to re-open in Spring 2024.
From its starting point 2,700 feet above sea level, this exhilarating adventure lets you feel the rush of speed as you conquer the thrilling descent. It's a blast for both beginners and seasoned cyclists – and you don't even have to bring along your own equipment. Ober Mountain offers bike, pad, and helmet rentals. Plus, skilled instructors are on hand to provide expert lessons for all experience levels.
If you do plan to bring your own bike, it must meet certain suspension standards, so be sure to call ahead for details. Safety is the top priority!
Love ziplining? You're in for a treat. Construction is now underway for Ober Mountain's new zipline experience. Once completed, it will be the only four-line-wide ziplining course in the Eastern United States. Suspended from four lofty towers, the ziplines will run along a scenic route through lush tree-canopied forest – and the longest run will cover nearly 3,200 feet!
All this is just the beginning of Ober Mountain's four-season transformation. Plans are also in the works for an ATV/UTV course and a whitewater-rafting adventure. Plus, the famous Aerial Tramway is adding spiffy new chairlifts, and the existing Wildlife Habitat is undergoing a major renovation.
You'll find these cool new attractions and so much more in the beautiful Tennessee Smokies. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals now to reserve your Gatlinburg cabin just minutes from all the excitement.
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