North Carolina is one of those wonderfully versatile states for outdoor sports. Climbers, surfers, hikers, and outdoorsmen can all find something to do between the warm water of the Atlantic Ocean and the stunning peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountain – not to mention the Appalachian Trail. Skiers and snowboarders are no exception, as North Carolina ski resorts are well worth a visit!
North Carolina might not hold the tallest or largest ski resorts in the North America, but that doesn’t mean skiers won’t have a great time. Warmer weather, long seasons, and low prices are all advantages of the North Carolina ski scene – not to mention proximity to lively towns like Boone and Asheville. For skiers looking to stay on the slopes even while spending time in the South, we’ve put together our list of the top 5 ski resorts in North Carolina.
But first…ski gear!
When planning any ski trip, it’s important that you have all the gear you need to have a great time. Even in the relatively warm weather of North Carolina, you want to make sure you have proper essentials, such as a jacket, snow pants, gloves, and goggles. It’s always important to make sure you’re protecting yourself with a helmet when you go out skiing or snowboarding, so make sure you have what you need to stay safe when skiing in the South!
Top 5 North Carolina Ski Resorts
1. Sugar Mountain Ski Resort
Acreage: 125 acres
Highest elevation point: 5,300 ft
Number of runs: 21
Best for: intermediate to advanced skiers, non-skiing activities, night skiing
At the top of our North Carolina ski resorts is Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, which is the state’s largest ski resort. With a 1,200-foot vertical drop, Sugar Mountain is definitely an eye-catching option for skiers in the South looking for long runs in addition to a long season. The ski season typically runs from late November to mid-March thanks to cool evenings that allow for ample snowmaking.
A variety of slopes for beginner and intermediate-level skiers makes this a great destination for families and those who are new to skiing. Sugar Mountain also offers night skiing until 10:00 pm as well as tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing, so you can make the most of your trip to this resort on and off the slopes!
2. Beech Mountain
Acreage: 95 acres
Highest elevation point: 5,506 ft
Number of runs: 17
Best for: skiers on a budget, park riders
Next up on our list is Beech Mountain, located just a few miles from Sugar Mountain. This scenic ski spot in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with stunning views across its 17 slopes. One of the most notable elements of this North Carolina ski resort is its freestyle terrain. With a vertical drop of only 830 feet, repetition is maximized. For skiers and snowboarders looking to master their technical skills or progress their freestyle, Beech Mountain is a great choice because it is easily hikeable. Beech Mountain is flush with amenities including four restaurants, one of which sits at the peak, offering spectacular views.
3. Wolf Ridge
Acreage: 72 acres
Highest elevation point: 4,700 ft
Number of runs: 15
Best for: night skiing, families, Asheville locals
Featuring the highest peak elevation of any North Carolina Ski Resort is Wolf Ridge Ski Resort. Just 40 minutes north of Asheville, this is a great option for those looking for great skiing near a lively urban center. This rustic resort has a 700-foot vertical drop and prides itself on being a family-oriented ski resort. Night skiing is available across all 15 trails. With a nearby snow tubing hill in winter and mountain bike trails during warmer months, there is plenty to do for all ages, skier or not.
4. Cataloochee Ski Area
Acreage: 50 acres
Highest elevation point: 5,400 ft
Number of runs: 18
Best for: beginners, Indy Pass Holders, Asheville locals
Less than an hour west of Asheville, sits Cataloochee Ski Area. This North Carolina ski resort is open early November through late March. A 740-foot vertical drop puts this among the longest ski runs in the state with trails at a variety of levels, making it a great resort destination for beginners looking to practice their skills and families. Cataloochee also offers snow tubing if you’re looking to make the most of your weekend.
5. Appalachian Ski Mountain
Acreage: 27 acres
Highest elevation point: 4,000 ft
Number of runs: 11
Best for: beginners, families, park riders, night skiing, Boone locals
Located just south of Boone is the Appalachian Ski Mountain, a mid-November through late March ski resort with just 11 runs and 3 terrain parks. Ski lifts are open from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm with all slopes open for night skiing. Runs are short at Appalachian Ski Mountain, making it a great option for easy-going skiers and beginners. Appalachian also hosts a skate rink with inexpensive rentals, making it a fun family-oriented destination and great date spot.
That wraps up our top 5 ski resorts in North Carolina! We hope you enjoy the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the lively towns, and discover a new favorite ski destination in this underdog gem.
