Posted in Tennessee
July 22, 2017
The Quintessential Tennessee Ski Town That’s Even Better In The Summertime
Have you ever visited Gatlinburg, Tennessee? Well, many folks have scratched the fun Tennessee tourist spot off their bucket list, but a majority visit during the snowy wintertime. Ober Gatlinburg is great for those looking to hit the slopes in our landlocked southern state, but what about during the summertime? We have quite a bit to tell you. East Tennessee deserves to be recognized ALL year ’round.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Gatlinburg is a well-known Tennessee mountain town, located at the the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains and known as their "gateway." One of its most popular places for tourists is the ski resort and amusement park located in Ober Gatlinburg.
You can also visit the Space Needle observation tower, which raises 407 feet in the air and offers insanely beautiful views, or take a ride on the Sky Lift. It runs 2.1 miles from Ober Gatlinburg to the heart of Gatlinburg's downtown.
You can visit Ripley's Aquarium, where, interestingly enough, more fish are housed than the actual number of people that live in Gatlinburg. There are over 10,000 animals that make their home in the aquarium - and 4,000 Tennesseans that live in town. Crazy, right?!
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains is a necessary experience, especially since it is the most visited national park in the country. That's quite the achievement!
Scientists believe that 1,600 bears live in the smoky mountains, which means you may get lucky (maybe?) and see a beautiful representation of Tennessee wildlife. Obviously don't get close or put yourself in harm's way, but do know that you are visiting a place that is close to nature - not just outlet stores.
There are multiple cabins that are available for rent, great for families and hikers and single travelers alike.
Gatlinburg is also home to a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, best for hiking during the prettier months. As the second most popular wedding destination in the United States, you can also find a VERY willing pastor to link you to your partner forever and ever.
There may be bears in the woods, but the Great Smoky Mountains are also known as the "Salamander Capital of the World," since it is home to 24 different types of lungless salamanders. So insane.
So...are you ready for an adventure?
Can you even get enough of that view?! What a beautiful, beautiful place. The park offers free admission and has more than 800 square miles of wilderness to explore.
Continue the fun with this map of Nashville wineries – it’s pretty exciting!
