Gatlinburg SkyLift Park kicks off its winter celebration on Friday, with new attractions and a return of Lights Over Gatlinburg, a holiday light spectacular to remember. Beginning this week, visitors can treat themselves to memorable adventures during the day, then return after dark for an enchanting display of lights.
Visitors who come to the park at night can cross the SkyBridge through a tunnel of lights, see lighted trees sparkling along the new SkyTrail, and take advantage of photo opportunities with a 30-foot tree and more than 60,000 twinkling lights blinking to synchronized holiday music.
During the day, visitors can walk along the SkyTrail, a unique and easy hiking path with views of the record-breaking SkyBridge, on their way to the new Tulip Tower.
The tower is a dramatic addition to the iconic attraction and tells an inspiring story of renewal and rebuilding, with unforgettable views on each level.
Interactive signage along the trail provides information about the engineering of the SkyBridge, the history of the SkyLift and the devastating wildfires of 2016. The signs feature interactive QR codes that provide additional information, images and videos for a fully immersive experience.
The striking steel Tulip Tower, accessed by two rope bridges along the trail, is an adventure for all ages. The tower’s four elevated viewing platforms feature the story of recovery after the 2016 wildfires, as well as interesting local information in relation to the Tulip Poplar tree and other local flora and fauna. At the top of the tower, visitors will enjoy a unique view of the Smokies and the SkyBridge.
“The Smokies are beautiful in every season, and winter brings new activities and holiday events. We’re so excited to be able to offer even more unique ways for our visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area,” said Randy Watson, general manager. “The SkyLift Park’s new SkyTrail offers unsurpassed views of the Smokies and the SkyBridge during the day, and our Lights Over Gatlinburg event offers a spectacular light display at night.”
Visitors can get their tickets online or at the SkyLift ticket booth at the base of Crockett Mountain. The tickets are valid for the entire day at the SkyPark.