Ober Mountain’s New Ober Challenge Chairlift Elevates the Ski Experience in Tennessee

Ober Mountain, Tennessee’s only ski area, has officially unveiled its brand-new Doppelmayr quad chairlift, called the Ober Challenge, marking a significant upgrade to the mountain’s ski infrastructure. This new chairlift serves the upper terrain of the ski area, elevating guests to a height of 3,208 feet, offering both smoother rides and enhanced accessibility to the slopes. The addition of the Ober Challenge not only improves the overall guest experience, but also adds a new layer of excitement for skiers and snowboarders alike.

The new chairlift is an exciting development for the ski area and its visitors, who have long enjoyed Ober Mountain’s combination of snow-covered trails and breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The ski area took to social media to celebrate the new lift, encouraging guests to “come experience a smoother, faster, safer, and more enjoyable way to conquer the slopes.” The Ober Challenge chairlift is expected to dramatically improve the speed and efficiency of lift access for skiers, a welcome upgrade for the winter sports community.

The tradition of presenting a ceremonial bell when a new Doppelmayr lift opens continues at Ober Mountain. According to the ski area, these bells—traditionally placed on leader cattle in Alpine regions—are symbolic of luck, prosperity, and cheer. Ober Mountain hopes that these same values will be carried by the Ober Challenge chairlift, bringing good fortune to every skier and snowboarder who takes a ride.

A Lift for Every Season

Ober Mountain isn’t just preparing for another winter season; it’s also planning to cater to outdoor enthusiasts during the warmer months. As part of its efforts to expand the mountain’s appeal to a wider audience, the Ober Challenge chairlift will also serve mountain bikers during the summer. This addition makes Ober Mountain the only ski area in Tennessee to offer lift-accessed downhill mountain biking. This development is set to further solidify the ski area’s place in Tennessee’s outdoor recreation scene.

The summer months aren’t the only time for infrastructure upgrades at Ober Mountain. In addition to the Ober Challenge chairlift, Ober Mountain is also planning another lift improvement. The new four-person Sky Village Express, a replacement for the older two-seat Scenic Lift, is set to open soon. Once operational, the Sky Village Express will provide access to several mountain attractions, including the Smoky Mountain Bobsled, a scenic deck on Mt. Harrison, and even a zipline. The new lift will not only improve access to these features but will also enhance the overall guest experience at the resort.

Mark Adams, the CEO and President of Ober Mountain, expressed his excitement about the improvements in a statement to WBIR, saying, “We are thrilled to introduce a new chairlift and snowmaking technology this season to improve the experience for our guests who visit Ober to ski and ride.”

A Big Investment in Snowmaking Technology

The Ober Challenge chairlift is not the only investment Ober Mountain has made in its facilities this year. In 2023, the resort invested $4 million in state-of-the-art snowmaking technology. The ski area upgraded its snowmaking systems by introducing automated snowmaking tower machines, which have allowed the resort to produce 95% snow coverage, with depths ranging from three to five feet. This upgrade means that visitors will be able to experience some of the best snow conditions in the region, ensuring optimal conditions for skiing and snowboarding throughout the winter season.

Adams also shared his optimism about the new snowmaking technology, noting, “With the addition of these state-of-the-art snow machines, our slopes will have some of the best snow throughout the skiing season, and we know our customers are going to notice a difference right away.” The improvements to snowmaking have been well-received, and they play a key role in Ober Mountain’s reputation for offering good-quality snow even in less-than-ideal weather conditions. With the new technology, Ober Mountain aims to provide an exceptional experience to all guests, whether they are seasoned skiers or first-time visitors.

A Legacy of Outdoor Adventure

Ober Mountain has been an iconic destination in Tennessee for outdoor enthusiasts since it first opened in 1962. Originally a private club, the resort has grown to become the state’s primary ski area, with a dedicated following of skiers, snowboarders, and outdoor adventurers. Its skiable terrain spans 38 acres, with 10 trails and 600 feet of vertical drop.

The resort also offers night skiing, allowing guests to enjoy the mountain under the stars. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, Ober Mountain offers a serene and scenic environment, perfect for reconnecting with nature while enjoying all the fun and excitement that comes with a day on the slopes.

The Future of Ober Mountain

As Ober Mountain continues to evolve, it is clear that the resort is committed to enhancing the experience for visitors, whether they’re skiers, snowboarders, or mountain bikers. With its new chairlifts, state-of-the-art snowmaking technology, and plans for expanding lift-accessed mountain biking, the resort is positioning itself to be a year-round destination for outdoor activities. These improvements signal an exciting future for the ski area, ensuring that it remains Tennessee’s premier destination for winter sports and mountain recreation.

Ober Mountain has always been about more than just skiing; it’s about embracing the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and offering a fun, welcoming environment for all. Whether it’s for a thrilling day on the slopes or a relaxing evening taking in the breathtaking mountain views, Ober Mountain offers something for everyone.

With the season in full swing and even more exciting developments on the horizon, visitors can look forward to an unforgettable experience at Ober Mountain. Whether you’re riding the Ober Challenge chairlift to reach new heights on the mountain or enjoying a thrilling mountain bike ride in the summer, Ober Mountain is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ober Mountain Ski Area Stats

• Vertical: 600 feet
• Skiable Terrain: 38 acres
• Average Snowfall: 35 inches
• Lifts: 5
• Trails: 10
• Snowmaking: Yes
• Night Skiing: Yes

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