Ober Gatlinburg Turns 50

There’s a BIG birthday to celebrate this year, but it isn’t just anyone in particular’s birthday. It’s Ober Gatlinburg’s, and the popular ski resort is turning a very robust 50 and looking even better with age.

With Sunday at Ober Gatlinburg being the first day of ski season after opening day was pushed back a few weeks, now’s an even better time to experience one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions.

Skiers were anxious to hit the slopes this year after 2012 when Ober was forced to close early due to unseasonably warm weather.

In all seriousness, 50 never looked better on anyone than it did at Ober this past weekend. With all the new snow, skiers no matter the age and experience, were slipping and sliding on the fresh slopes. The recent low temperatures made for some great new snowmaking.

Ober officials said with the amount of snow making equipment, and the conditions, three slopes were open on the first day which made for a busy afternoon and night. December 10 is what Ober usually shoots for every year as an opening date. With just a few weeks behind their target, guests seemed pleased despite the late opening.

Ober provides a much needed burst of economic productivity for the area to go along with the holiday tourism season.

As previously mentioned, Sunday marked the start of Ober’s 50th ski season and the day’s turnout couldn’t have been better. Over 1,000 skiers skied Ober’s slopes between its two sessions Sunday. A busy 2013 looks to be on the horizon.

*Ober Gatlinburg offers 9 trails for their guests from beginners to expert skiers. They are also equipped should you not have your own skis or snowboard. Their rental fleet contains 1,800 pairs of shaped skis and 400 snowboards, and the staff is more than happy to get you set up and ready to hit the slopes. Renting at Ober doesn’t just mean skis and snowboards, you can also rent ski pants, jackets, and helmets. They’ve really got you covered.

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