Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain: Atlanta’s Seasonal Winter Playground

When Atlanta starts thinking about snow, many residents and visitors think of Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park—a seasonal attraction that transforms part of the park into a winter-themed play area. While the exact offerings can change from year to year, the idea is the same: manufactured snow, tubing, and cold-weather fun not usually found in metro Atlanta’s mild winters.

Below is a practical guide to how Snow Mountain typically works, what to expect in the Stone Mountain area, and how Atlanta families and visitors can make the most of a seasonal visit.

Where Snow Mountain Fits into the Stone Mountain Area

Location:
Stone Mountain Park
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd
Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Stone Mountain Park sits just east of Atlanta and is one of the area’s largest outdoor attractions. Snow Mountain has traditionally been a seasonal overlay within the park, usually operating in the colder months with:

• Snow tubing hills
• Snow play zones
• Winter-themed activities tied in with holiday events

For people who live in or are visiting Atlanta, Snow Mountain is often seen as:

• A day-trip destination from anywhere in the metro area
• A way to give kids a “snow day” experience even if it’s 50 degrees and sunny in the city
• A holiday season tradition that pairs with other Stone Mountain events

Because Stone Mountain Park is a major regional attraction, most Atlantans access it by car via US-78 from downtown or the I-285 perimeter.

Is Snow Mountain Currently Operating?

The Snow Mountain attraction is seasonal and has changed over time. In some years, the park has adjusted or paused snow-focused activities. Before you plan a trip, it’s important to:

• Check the current seasonal schedule on Stone Mountain Park’s official channels
• Confirm whether Snow Mountain or similar snow-themed activities are offered that particular winter
• Review holiday and winter event descriptions, since snow experiences are sometimes bundled into broader winter festivals

Because the park’s offerings can evolve, think of “Snow Mountain” as a concept and season—a winter snow experience at Stone Mountain—rather than a guarantee that the exact same attraction runs every year.

What Snow Mountain Usually Includes

While the details and names of individual attractions may change, Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain has historically focused on three main experiences: tubing, playing, and relaxing in the “snow.”

1. Snow Tubing Hills

At the heart of Snow Mountain are snow tubing runs made from manufactured snow. Common features have included:

• Single-rider lanes for classic downhill tubing
• Family or group tubes that seat multiple people together
• A conveyor-lift or moving sidewalk to carry tubes and guests back up the hill (reducing long hikes uphill)

This gives metro Atlanta residents a chance to try an activity more commonly associated with mountain towns, without leaving the city’s orbit.

Good to know:

• Height and age restrictions often apply for certain tubing lanes.
• Time slots may be timed sessions rather than all-day access, especially during peak season.
• Tubes are typically provided on-site; you don’t bring your own.

2. Snow Play Areas

In addition to tubing, Snow Mountain has typically offered snow play zones, especially geared toward families with younger children:

• Areas to build snowmen or snow forts
• Space for gentle snowball play
• Sculpted “snow scenes” for photos and winter-themed fun

Since Atlanta rarely gets deep, packable snow, these areas are particularly popular with children who have never experienced snow beyond a brief dusting.

3. Winter-Themed Extras

Depending on the year, Snow Mountain may be integrated with broader Stone Mountain winter events, which can include:

• Holiday lights and decorations
• Themed music or entertainment
• Concessions like hot chocolate, coffee, and warm snacks
• Gift shops or kiosks with winter accessories (hats, gloves, etc.)

Activities and branding change periodically, but the overall goal is to create a festive, family-friendly winter atmosphere in the Stone Mountain area.

Typical Season and Operating Hours

Snow Mountain is not a year-round attraction. For Atlanta planning purposes, here’s how the season usually works:

Because schedules and offerings shift, Atlantans should always verify dates, times, and what’s included for the exact season they plan to attend.

Getting to Snow Mountain from Atlanta

Most visitors reach Stone Mountain Park by car.

Driving

Common approach from central Atlanta:

1. Take I-20 East or surface streets to connect with I-285 East.
2. Exit onto US-78 East toward Stone Mountain.
3. Follow signs for Stone Mountain Park and the main entrance.
4. Once inside the park, follow posted signage for seasonal attractions or snow/winter events.

Parking:
Stone Mountain Park usually charges a daily parking fee or allows entry via an annual parking pass. Fees can change, so it’s important to confirm current rates before you go.

Public Transit

Public transit options to the park are limited compared with driving. Atlantans who rely on MARTA sometimes:

• Take MARTA rail to a station on the east side (such as Indian Creek)
• Then use rideshare or taxi for the remaining distance to Stone Mountain Park

Because winter events often run into the evening, it’s wise to plan return transportation in advance, especially if not driving.

Tickets, Passes, and Reservations

While exact structures can change from season to season, Snow Mountain access usually involves some combination of:

• Park entry or parking fee
• Attraction ticket or bundled wristband that may include:
  • Tubing sessions
  • Access to snow play areas
  • Some additional activities or shows, depending on the event setup

Key points for Atlanta visitors:

• Advance purchase: During the busiest holiday weeks, buying tickets ahead can help secure preferred time slots and reduce wait times.
• Timed tubing sessions: Tubing is often sold in specific time blocks, so you’ll want to arrive early enough to check in and get settled before your slot.
• Refunds and weather policies: Because this is a weather-dependent attraction, review any posted policies regarding rescheduling, delays, or closures.

If you’re coordinating with extended family or out-of-town guests visiting Atlanta, it’s helpful to:

• Pick the date and time first
• Confirm everyone understands whether they’re buying park-only access, winter attraction access, or a combined ticket

What to Wear and Bring for Snow Mountain

Even though Stone Mountain is in metro Atlanta, the environment at Snow Mountain can feel much colder than the day’s forecast suggests, especially with manufactured snow and longer periods outside.

Clothing Tips

Plan for cold and wet conditions, even on a mild Georgia day:

• Water-resistant or waterproof outer layer (jackets, snow pants if you have them)
• Gloves or mittens (water-resistant versions are best)
• Warm hat or earmuffs
• Thick socks (preferably wool or moisture-wicking)
• Closed-toe shoes or boots with good traction

If you don’t own full snow gear, consider:

• Layering with long sleeves and sweaters under a rain jacket
• Wearing older shoes that you’re okay getting wet

🎒 Nice-to-have items:

• An extra pair of socks for kids who may soak theirs
• Plastic bag for wet gloves or hats on the ride home
• Hand warmers, if you are sensitive to cold

What Not to Forget

• Tickets and ID (digital or printed)
• Parking payment method
• Any necessary medications for you or your children
• A charged phone for coordinating with your group and checking updates

Snow Mountain with Kids: Age, Safety, and Comfort

Families across metro Atlanta often want to know if Snow Mountain is a good fit for young children.

Age-Related Considerations

• Many snow play zones are designed to be kid-friendly, including spaces where younger children can safely enjoy the snow.
• Larger tubing hills may have height or age minimums; younger kids might be directed to smaller hills or alternate activities.
• Supervising adults should expect to remain actively involved—helping kids carry tubes, managing lines, and watching for signs of cold or fatigue.

Safety Basics

On-site staff typically provide basic safety rules such as:

• Sitting properly on tubes
• Waiting for staff signals before starting down a hill
• Keeping a safe distance from other riders at the bottom

As a parent or guardian:

• Double-check that kids are properly dressed and dry enough to stay comfortable.
• Take warm-up breaks inside or in sheltered areas.
• Be prepared to adjust plans if a child is overwhelmed or tired sooner than expected.

Pairing Snow Mountain with Other Stone Mountain Area Activities

If you’re driving from Atlanta, it often makes sense to combine Snow Mountain with other experiences, especially if you’ve paid for parking and brought the whole family.

Depending on the year’s offerings and operating schedules, people often:

• Explore parts of Stone Mountain Park before or after snow activities (walking trails, scenic areas when open)
• Enjoy on-site dining or snacks so the group can warm up and recharge
• Coordinate Snow Mountain with other seasonal or holiday-themed events at the park (such as light displays or shows)

If you’re entertaining visitors who are new to Atlanta, a snow session plus a broader visit to Stone Mountain can create a full-day or half-day outing without leaving the metro area.

Accessibility and Special Considerations

Stone Mountain Park is a large property with varied terrain. For Snow Mountain and similar seasonal attractions:

• Walk distances: Expect some walking between parking areas, ticketing, and the snow attractions.
• Surfaces: Snow and wet areas can be slippery, so individuals who are unsteady on their feet may need assistance or may choose to focus on viewing rather than participating.
• Seating and warming areas: Look for designated warming zones, benches, or indoor spaces for rest.

If anyone in your party has mobility or sensory needs, consider calling ahead or checking the park’s accessibility information to understand:

• Best paths from parking to attractions
• Availability of accessible restrooms and seating
• Any specific accommodations for winter/snow events

Practical Tips for Atlantans Planning a Visit

To make Snow Mountain work smoothly for Atlanta residents and visitors:

• Plan around traffic: Weekend and holiday traffic can be heavy on US-78 and I-285. Build in extra travel time, especially for specific tubing time slots.
• Arrive early: Getting there ahead of your session allows time for parking, walking, and getting geared up.
• Eat before tubing: Many families find it easier to eat a light meal before tubing, then do snacks or hot drinks afterward.
• Secure valuables: Keep wallets, phones, and keys stored safely and away from wet snow areas when possible.
• Monitor weather forecasts: While snow is machine-made, heavy rain, storms, or extreme conditions can affect operations.

Who Snow Mountain Is Best For

Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain typically appeals most to:

• Families with children wanting a snow experience close to Atlanta
• Groups of friends looking for a seasonal outing without driving to the North Georgia mountains
• Holiday visitors who want a festive, photo-friendly activity tied to winter

It may be less appealing if you prefer:

• Very quiet outdoor experiences—Snow Mountain can be busy and energetic
• Warm-weather hiking or boating, which are more associated with Stone Mountain in other seasons

Snow Mountain (when operating) gives Atlanta residents and visitors a rare chance to enjoy snow activities without leaving the metro area. By checking current seasonal offerings, planning your visit around traffic and weather, and dressing for cold, wet conditions, you can treat it as a memorable winter highlight in the Stone Mountain area.