SkyBridge: The Longest Pedestrian Suspension Bridge in the US
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Gatlinburg’s newest attraction just happens to be the most exhilarating of them all. Due to the recent completion in May of 2019, tourists are flocking from all over to walk across the 680 foot long SkyBridge. As soon as I moved to the area, walking across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the country was number 1 on my Smokies bucket list. I’ve been to the Smokies numerous times and was excited to do something different.
Sky Lift chairlift rides
The 5 foot wide, 140 foot tall bridge is part of SkyLift Park. Skylift is one of the city’s older attractions, opening back in 1954. The scenic chairlift ride was one of the first 4 season rides in the south back in the 50’s. The ride will take you up to the top of Crockett Mountain for a 360 degree of the Smokies. This was my first time taking the chairlift: not sure how I missed it all these years! I prefer the views on this chairlift over the Ober Gatlinburg tram: the mountain scenery really is incredible!
Check out those gorgeous mountain views!
Today, you get an extra bonus as the walk across SkyBridge is included with your lift tickets. This is a much better deal than before as you can take some time to walk the bridge and check out the views before taking the return chairlift ride back down. Before you would simply travel up the lift, take in the views, and head back down.
Most interesting is a see-through glass section near the midpoint of the bridge. Yes, it is a bit scary if you are at all squeamish of heights. On the other hand, a cool pretty photo opportunity if you don’t mind looking down upon the forest 140 feet beneath your feet!
The bridge tends to shake as you walk across it, especially on high traffic days. Prepare to feel a bit dizzy as everyone is bouncing around you. Fortunately, the bridge is safe and can hold 200,000 pounds! The guardrails will give you a bit more balance, not to mention make you feel more secure, if you need something to hold onto. Take your time and enjoy the tremendous mountain scenery!
I love the view from the observing area and the cute bear statue
The best part of all is that you can come back and enjoy both the chairlift and bridge walk as many times as you want during a 24 hour period if you purchase the SkyPass for just a few bucks more. As the views are stunning both day and night, I recommend walking the bridge at both times as it will cost you nothing extra.
Additional Details on SkyBridge
- Location: 765 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN
- Hours: 9am-9pm. Hours may vary on holidays.
- Admission price: Single visit tickets start at: $35 adults, $28 seniors, $21 juniors (6-11). Save $3 by booking online at least a day in advance (you will also get to skip the lengthy ticket line). Discounts for military, locals and groups available. Also combo tickets to Ripley’s Believe It or Not are available online. The all day pass starts at $47 for adults, $40 for seniors, and $33 for juniors.
- Tip: Visit in spring or fall to enjoy the best views and the best temps.
