Snow Tubing and Winter Fun Near Chattanooga

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is well-known for its vibrant outdoor life, scenic beauty, and rich history. While it's a year-round destination, winter in Chattanooga opens up unique opportunities for fun, especially for those looking to enjoy some snow tubing and winter activities. Let's dive into the best places for snow tubing and winter fun near Chattanooga, including some local tips and interesting facts.

Overview

While Chattanooga itself may not see heavy snowfall, the surrounding areas, especially as you move into the higher elevations of the nearby mountains, offer excellent spots for winter sports enthusiasts. Snow tubing is a family-friendly winter activity that requires no special skills, making it perfect for everyone. It's an exhilarating way to enjoy the winter scenery and have some fun in the snow.

Recommended Places for Snow Tubing

Ober Gatlinburg: About 2.5 hours from Chattanooga, Ober Gatlinburg is the go-to destination for snow tubing in the region. The resort offers a large snow tubing area with multiple lanes and a magic carpet to take you back to the top effortlessly. Ober Gatlinburg also features skiing, snowboarding, and an indoor ice skating rink, providing a comprehensive winter sports experience.
- Interesting Fact: Ober Gatlinburg is accessible via road or the Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg, offering stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Visitor Tip: Check their schedule online as sessions for snow tubing are 90 minutes and must be booked in advance.
Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort: Located in Mentone, Alabama, roughly 2 hours from Chattanooga, Cloudmont offers a more intimate skiing and snow tubing experience. While it's smaller, its charm and the personal touch make it a favorite for families.
- Interesting Fact: Cloudmont's ski slopes are equipped with snow-making machines, ensuring there's snow for skiing and tubing throughout the season.
- Visitor Tip: Accommodations are available on-site, making it easy to turn your snow tubing adventure into a cozy weekend getaway.

Local Knowledge and Other Suggestions

When planning a snow tubing trip near Chattanooga, it's essential to monitor the weather and resort conditions, as southern winters can be unpredictable. Booking your tubing session in advance is highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays when demand is high.

Getting There

To Ober Gatlinburg: Take I-75 N from Chattanooga to Knoxville, then I-40 E to TN-66 S in Sevierville. Follow TN-66 S and US-441 S to Gatlinburg. Follow signs to Ober Gatlinburg.
To Cloudmont Ski & Golf Resort: Take I-24 W towards Nashville, then take exit 152B to merge onto US-72 W towards South Pittsburg. Continue on AL-117 S to Mentone.

Conclusion

Snow tubing near Chattanooga offers a fun and accessible winter activity for all ages. Whether you're looking for a full-fledged winter sports resort experience at Ober Gatlinburg or a quaint, family-friendly adventure at Cloudmont, the region has something to offer. Remember, the key to enjoying winter sports is dressing warmly and being prepared for the elements. Happy tubing!