In my opinion, yes. The Gatlinburg SkyBridge and SkyPark are worth the time and money to experience at least once. But don’t take my word for it. Keep reading to find out what to expect and decide for yourself.

Everything You Need to Know about the Gatlinburg SkyPark and SkyBridge

First, in case you’re not familiar, the Gatlinburg SkyPark includes the SkyBridge experience. The SkyPark itself also offers shopping, snacks and other food and drink options, a SkyDeck to enjoy the view, and even a SkyTrail and other hiking trails at the top.

Whether you’re planning a trip or deciding whether to add this experience to your agenda, here are answers to some FAQs.

Gatlinburg SkyPark and SkyBridge Parking

There is no designated parking for the SkyPark or SkyBridge. However, you will find a small parking garage on the street adjacent to the SkyPark—at the corner of Maples Lane and River Road—and another open air lot across the street from the river. Generally speaking, the cost is similar for most parking options in Gatlinburg.

If you plan to stay at a nearby hotel or rental property, consider walking to save money.

Is the SkyBridge in Gatlinburg free?

Wishful thinking, but no. The SkyBridge is not free—with the exception of kids under five years old. For everyone else, you can choose between three ticket types: Single Ride, Unlimited, or SkyPass. Below is a quick breakdown of each one:

Single Ride — Just like it sounds, this ticket gets you one roundtrip ride up and down the mountain on the SkyLift, with access to the SkyPark and SkyBridge.

Unlimited — This ticket type offers unlimited round-trip rides up and down the mountain for one day, for those who may want to experience the SkyPark and SkyBridge during the day and around sunset or after dark. Unfortunately, the Unlimited ticket is only available seasonally, so be sure to check the website for options available on your preferred date.

SkyPass — This option is basically the Unlimited ticket with skip-the-line privileges, which can come in handy during peak season or peak times of day. However, this is also the most expensive ticket type.

You can purchase tickets online for a specific date or purchase in person. I recommend buying online to avoid the ticket line.

The ride on the SkyLift chair lift takes between five and ten minutes. I didn’t time it, so I can’t give an exact time, but it felt like approximately five and was probably, in reality, closer to ten. The chair lift does have a lap bar and I saw kids and even dogs riding up and down.

CLICK HERE to view current pricing, purchase a ticket, see hours of operation, and more.

How Long Does It Take to Walk Across the SkyBridge?

The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian cable suspension bridge in North America, spanning almost 700 feet at 1,800 feet above sea level. At the center of the span, 30 feet of glass allows you to see through the bottom to the view below!

One thing I appreciate about the SkyBridge is that you are not rushed. You can cross at your own pace to truly enjoy the view. And, the bridge is wide enough for two-way traffic, so stopping to take photos or videos doesn’t cause a bottleneck.

We stayed out on the bridge for at least five minutes and even had it mostly to ourselves at times.

Is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge Worth It?

Let’s go back to this question. As I shared in the beginning, I want you to make up your own mind, and I hope my experience—and these logistical details—have already helped you do just that.

In my opinion, going up the mountain to walk across the SkyBridge was worth the time and cost. Basically, I believe this experience is for you if:

• You enjoy a spectacular panoramic view — The SkyLift, SkyPark, and SkyBridge all offer unique views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
• You love heights — If walking across a slightly bouncy swinging suspension bridge sounds like a fun adventure, you’ll likely enjoy every second. And even if heights aren’t your thing, I saw kids and even adults bravely face this fear the day we visited. Of course, I didn’t ask them if they regretted it or not, but I have a feeling many were proud of themselves for doing it scared.
• You like being outdoors — In general, if outdoor activities excite you, the SkyPark offers plenty to do—including the bridge, eating or grabbing a drink on the SkyDeck, and walking the trails around and even under the bridge.
• You prefer unique things to do — This is certainly a unique experience. Yes, it is touristy, but I’d argue it didn’t feel as touristy as some of the other areas and attractions in Gatlinburg, like Anakeesta.

Are Anakeesta and the SkyBridge the Same?

No. Anakeesta is a completely separate mountaintop adventure, accessible by a different chair lift or enclosed gondola. I have not personally visited Anakeesta, so I’m not able to compare the two.

However, I will say Anakeesta seems to be well-marketed with plenty of add-on experiences for an additional cost.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Anakeesta.

However you spend your time in Gatlinburg, I hope you enjoy the beauty of East Tennessee and the Smoky Mountains.