Over the years, CIRCA Magazine has celebrated the beauty and allure of Western North Carolina’s mountain regions in our “Driveable Destination” series. This winter, as the area continues to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, we’re revisiting this beloved region to highlight its resilience and the exciting offerings of the 2024-2025 winter sports season. From enhanced ski resorts to thrilling off-slope attractions, the mountains of our state are ready to greet visitors with open arms and snowy landscapes. Tourism has long been a cornerstone of the region’s economy with about $7.3 billion in visitor spending in 2023. The state’s six ski areas generated $244.3 million in spending during the 2022-2023 season alone. However, Hurricane Helene disrupted fall travel plans, making this winter especially critical for economic recovery.

The arrival of snow has never been more welcome,” said Wit Tuttell, executive director of Visit North Carolina. “Hurricane Helene limited fall getaways to many of our mountain destinations, but our ski areas recovered quickly and are ready for prime time on the slopes. Travelers can enjoy the thrills and beauty of our peaks while destinations benefit from much-needed economic vitality.” By exploring the region’s offerings – whether skiing, tubing, or simply relaxing in cozy alpine retreats – visitors not only enjoy unforgettable mountain experiences, but they also play a vital role in supporting community resilience and recovery.

A Closer Look at North Carolina’s Ski Areas

North Carolina’s six ski resorts form the backbone of the state’s winter sports scene, offering something for everyone, from seasoned skiers to first-timers.

Appalachian Ski Mtn. (Blowing Rock): As the first ski area in North Carolina’s High Country, Appalachian Ski Mtn. is a favorite for families, beginners, and groups. Known for its French Swiss Ski College – the South’s largest independent ski school – and kid-friendly programs like SKIwee, it’s perfect for building confidence on the slopes. The resort offers 27 skiable acres with 13 slopes, four terrain parks, and a peak elevation of 4,000 feet. Visitors can also enjoy late-night skiing, ice skating on a Zamboni-groomed rink, and a cozy lodge with dining and shopping options.

Beech Mountain Resort (Beech Mountain): At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain Resort is the highest ski area in the East. It offers 95 skiable acres, 17 slopes, and two terrain parks. Off the slopes, visitors can explore an alpine village featuring cozy firepits, live music at Beech Mountain Brewing Co., and breathtaking views from the 5506’ Skybar. Families will love programs like Traxx and Snow Kamp for kids. Mark your calendar for the 43rd annual Adaptive Learn to Ski/Snowboard Event, January 28-30.

Cataloochee Ski Area (Maggie Valley): Cataloochee, located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, was North Carolina’s first ski area. With 18 slopes across 50 acres and a peak elevation of 5,400 feet, it offers one of the region’s longest seasons, supported by advanced snowmaking technology. Families will appreciate lessons at the Snowsports Center and Tube World for tubing fun. Don’t miss the NC Smokies Ice Fest Weekend starting January 30, featuring the Torch Run and other festive events.

Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort (Mars Hill): About 30 miles north of Asheville, Hatley Pointe has transformed the former Wolf Ridge Ski Area into a boutique-style destination. Visitors will find 54 acres of skiable terrain, an expanded lodge with cozy fireplaces, and delicious dining options. With private and group lessons available, it’s an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Sapphire Valley Ski Area (Sapphire): Nestled within a 5,700-acre four-season resort, Sapphire Valley Ski Area is a welcoming destination for families and beginners. Its eight-acre skiable terrain, two slopes, and 200-foot vertical drop provide a perfect space to build confidence on the snow. Lessons are available, and the Frozen Falls Tube Park adds extra excitement for non-skiers. Visitors can relax at the base lodge park and fire pit or enjoy nearby dining options. Don’t miss the whimsical Great Outhouse Races on February 15.

Sugar Mountain Resort (Sugar Mountain): As North Carolina’s largest winter resort, Sugar Mountain offers 125 skiable acres, 20 slopes, and the state’s only double black diamond run. Its recently widened Northridge slope provides improved night skiing and more space for skiers. Group and private lessons at the Snowsports Schools cater to all ages, making Sugar Mountain a top destination for winter recreation.

Winter Fun Beyond the Slopes

Western North Carolina offers a wealth of off-slope activities, making it a vibrant destination for winter fun beyond skiing. Tubing and sledding enthusiasts, in particular, will find plenty to enjoy. For families with younger children, Beech Mountain Sledding Hill is a standout option. Designed for kids 12 and under, this free municipal sledding hill ensures hours of family-friendly fun. Visitors can bring their own sleds or rent them from nearby shops, while snow guns keep the hill in great condition throughout the season.

For those seeking the thrill of tubing, the region boasts several outstanding parks. Hawksnest Tubing in Seven Devils, one of the East Coast’s largest tubing parks, offers 30 lanes of varied terrain, perfect for visitors ages three and up. After a day of exhilarating runs, guests can relax in the park’s cozy café. In nearby Newland, Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park provides steep, 400-foot slopes for adrenaline-pumping rides, while spectators can watch the action from a dedicated viewing area.

Further north, Zip N Slip in Mars Hill, located near Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort, features 10 tubing lanes and a solarium with a fireplace, making it an inviting retreat for families. In Hendersonville, visitors can choose between two excellent tubing destinations – Moonshine Mountain Snow Tubing Park offers five lanes designed for solo or group runs, with thrilling 500-foot descents, while nearby, Black Bear Snow Tubing caters to all ages with its 500-foot slope, complete with a lift and a heated lodge for non-tubers.

For those who want to combine tubing with an alpine coaster experience, Highlands Outpost in Scaly Mountain delivers the best of both worlds. Tubers can zip down snowy slopes and ride the Scaly Mountain Screamer, a gravity-powered coaster with 3,800 feet of twists and turns. A magic carpet lift ensures an easy return to the top for another round of fun.

What’s New for the 2024-2025 Season

This year, Western North Carolina’s ski resorts and attractions have introduced exciting new features to enhance the experience for snow enthusiasts. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a casual snow lover, there’s always something fresh to explore.

Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort (Mars Hill): As highlighted earlier, the new Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort has revitalized the former Wolf Ridge Ski Area, reimagining it as a boutique-style destination that is a must-visit for skiers and snowboarders this season.

Beech Mountain Resort (Beech Mountain): This season, Beech Mountain introduces a redesigned 5506’ Skybar with expanded seating and summit views. For added fun, cosmic tubing under dazzling lights creates an unforgettable nighttime adventure.

Sugar Mountain Resort (Sugar Mountain): Known for its challenging double black diamond slope, Sugar Mountain has implemented an RFID ticketing system and, as previously mentioned, widened its Northridge slope.

plan ahead for the perfect escape

Planning ahead is key to making the most of your winter visit. Start by checking the Western NC Travel Update on VisitNC.com for road and weather conditions, and visit GoSkiNC.com for the latest slope reports. For first-timers or those looking to pack light, most resorts offer rentals for skis, bibs, and jackets, making it easy to gear up once you arrive. Whether you’re carving down the mountain or enjoying the stunning views, a little preparation will ensure a fun and memorable winter getaway.

Why Visit This Winter?

North Carolina’s mountains offer an irresistible mix of natural beauty, adventure, and community spirit, making them the perfect driveable destination for winter fun. From the thrill of skiing down pristine slopes and the joy of tubing with loved ones to the cozy comfort of sipping hot cocoa by a crackling fire, the region provides a perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. Beyond the outdoor adventures, every visit helps sustain a community that has shown remarkable resilience and is eager to share its charm and warmth with visitors. So this winter, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the mountains cast their spell. The snow, slopes, and stunning vistas are waiting – there’s no better time to uncover the magic of Western North Carolina. See you on the slopes!

Special thanks to Visit North Carolina for providing information referenced in this feature. Visit North Carolina is part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. For tips on planning your visit, additional adventure ideas, exciting upcoming events, travel deals, things to do, places to stay, and more, visit VisitNC.com and follow @visitnc.