SCENIC CHAIRLIFT

One of the most peaceful rides in our Park, the Scenic Chairlift allows you to see the best view in the Smokies without hiking. It provides an impressive 779 foot rise in elevation above our mountaintop park and, at 3019 feet in length, it is the longest Chairlift of its kind in the United States. This smooth ride takes you to the peak of Mt Harrison at 3455 feet above sea level … more than 1650 feet higher than any other chairlift in Gatlinburg or the entire state of TN!  Here, you can see as far as Douglas Lake on a clear day and the flawless view of Mt LeConte is breathtaking!

The lift is open all four seasons (weather permitting) and every day offers a uniquely beautiful experience. From May-November (Wed thru Sun), we have live Bluegrass Music from “Mountain Grass” playing for our guests’ enjoyment.

Fun facts:

The Towers used on our Scenic Lift were built for the 1956 Cortina D’Ampezzo, Italy Winter Olympic Games, but were not actually used for them. The Gatlinburg Ski Corporation bought them to create the lift for the “Big John” slope. Made of pure steel, these towers can last indefinitely with proper care. They have been upgraded including new drive system and chairs in 2014.

This Lift was placed on the mountain to access the original Advanced Slope, “Big John” in 1962 for the Gatlinburg Ski Corp. before the ownership was transferred to Ober Gatlinburg in 1977. Long ago, “Big John” was closed because the south-facing, very steep terrain created conditions too difficult for effective snow-making and could only open for about 2 weeks per year. Alpine Way was created in its absence.