Skiing in the Smokies
     There is no reason to leave the Smokies when the first snow falls in late October.  As the beauty of fall colors fade away, a new picturesque setting is created.  Snow falling in late fall is a reminder to many that Ski season is here.  While staying at Next Step Heaven, there is plenty to do outside in the beautiful white landscape.  Downhill skiing, cross country skiing, and ice skating are various ways to enjoy the peace and serenity of winter in the Smoky Mountains.

     The closest ski area to Next Step Heaven is Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park, located in Gatlinburg about 10 miles away.  Once in Gatlinburg take the Aerial Tramway  from downtown to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park. From there you can access 8 ski trails of magnificent fall-line skiing.  In addition there is a unique theme park at the Ski Resort that offers the opportunity to ice skate or shop in the 62,000 sq. foot Tramway Mall, ride the South's longest Scenic Chairlift to the pinnacle of Mt. Harrison or enjoy the excitement of the Alpine Slide.

     Other ski resorts are located around the Smoky Mountain area.  If you are staying at Next Step Heaven during the off-season for a week or longer and you want to ski at different areas in the Smokies, you can save money by not staying in expensive chalets at ski resorts during the peak season of winter.  Listed below are other ski areas in the Smokies.