Warmer than normal temperatures are forcing Ober Gatlinburg to close ski operations. Although this has been a non-typical winter as far as temperatures it has occurred before. The 2007/2008 season was a very similar season with a hot dry summer followed by a warmer than normal winter. This is generally a result of the La Nina effect created by lower water temperatures in the Pacific. Although we can’t predict weather a year ahead, the good news is that these patterns generally do not repeat themselves year after year.
Snow Tubing will remain in operation through March 26. Ober Gatlinburg's Snow Magic technology has assisted traditional snowmaking equipment to compensate for the abnormally warm temperatures. This above-freezing snow making capability will also allow officials to keep Snow Tubing in full swing through March 26.
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park is Tennessee’s only ski area and continues to be a favored year-round destination. Ober offers Skiing, Snowboarding, and Tubing in the winter and Ski Mountain Coaster, Alpine Slide, Scenic Chairlift, Chair Swing, Amaze’n Maze, Water Raft Rides, and Mini-Golf in the summer. Year- round, visitors can see animals at the Wildlife Encounter, Ice Skate indoors, enjoy shopping at The Shops at Ober, and dining at The Seasons of Ober Restaurant or The Loft Lounge.