The 11 best active things to do in North Carolina in winter
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Featured photo by Almaty
If you’re like me and enjoy winter sports and activities, some of the best things to do in North Carolina in winter are in the west where the cold season turns the Blue Ridge Mountains into an exciting, snow-dusted playground.
Here, winter has its own kind of magic — crisp days filled with skiing, tubing, and mountain adventures. And when the day ends, there’s small towns glowing with holiday lights and cozy cabins filled with the smell of wood smoke.
Don’t have time to read the whole story?
- Best ski resort option: Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort: (4.8) wide runs, lessons, & tubing
- Best snow tubing option: Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park: (4.7) relaxed atmosphere.
So, if you’re looking for things to do in North Carolina in winter, you’ve come to the right place. You’ll want to know which parks are best, where to stay, and which ski hill or snow tubing course is right for you. This guide gives you the complete story.
Skiing & snowboarding without the pressure
You don’t have to be an expert skier to enjoy winter in western North Carolina. The region’s ski resorts are designed for all experience levels, with beginner slopes, group and private lessons, and full gear rentals so you can focus on fun, not form. Cozy lodges and mountain cafés make it easy to take a break, warm up, and just enjoy the view.
Below is a realistic look at each ski area — how visitors rate them, what they’re best for, and why they’re worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for an easygoing adventure without too much exertion.
Western North Carolina has six main ski areas:
- Appalachian Ski Mountain,
- Beech Mountain,
- Cataloochee Ski Area,
- Hatley Pointe Mountain resort (formerly Wolf Ridge),
- Sapphire Valley,
- Sugar Mountain.
Pro tip:
Western North Carolina travel
I’m adding new stories regularly—check back soon or join the newsletter for updates when fresh posts go live.
Snow-based operations sometimes depend on weather, so “open” status can vary. Before heading out, check webcams, websites (links included with the reviews), or social pages/phone numbers for current conditions and hours — it can save you a long drive and a short ski day.
Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort (formerly Wolf Ridge)
BOOK Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort
- Rating: 4.8 / 5 (249 reviews on Google)
- Location: Mars Hill, Madison County, NC, Asheville (35 minutes north)
- Season: December through March
- 2025-2026 season ski passes are available as of October 1, 2025
Why we like it:
Hatley Pointe marks a fresh chapter in western North Carolina skiing. Formerly Wolf Ridge, the resort reopened on December 21, 2024, under the new ownership of David and Deborah Hatley.
With extensive renovations — including a modern snowmaking system and refreshed facilities — it’s positioning itself as a boutique-style mountain resort. For travelers who enjoy discovering something new, Hatley Pointe offers the thrill of familiar slopes reimagined.
Hatley Pointe is nestled in the shadow of Big Bald Mountain. It offers a 700-foot vertical drop from the peak of 4,700 feet. There’s 54 acres of skiable terrain and 15 trails—many of them lit for night skiing. There are a variety of runs that include beginner, intermediate, and expert trails.
You can choose from a variety of day and season passes and they also include event access. They offer individual and group lessons as well as equipment for rent.
For Après Ski, there’s dining with a cozy fireplace and multiple bars.
What to watch out for:
- As a newly reopened resort, Hatley Pointe is still growing into its identity and is smaller than Sugar or Beech — some amenities are still expanding.
- Day passes and rentals may sell out quickly during peak weekends — book early to avoid disappointment.
What Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort includes:
- Renovated ski slopes and lodge
- New snowmaking system for more consistent coverage
- Boutique resort vibe with expanded amenities in progress
- Plans for expanded ski terrain in 2025–26
- A new mountain bike park slated for Spring 2026
There’s a live webcam feed halfway down this page but, for me, it takes a while to connect and render.
What past guests have said:
“It’s a small mountain, but the coverage and quality of the snow, which was being made like crazy, were much better than I was expecting. I never waited more than a minute for the lift (it was a Thursday), and the lodge really was a stylish upgrade from your typical ski building.”
— Adam R. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Appalachian Ski Mountain
BOOK Appalachian Ski Mountain
- Rating: 4.4 / 5 (2,555 reviews on Google)
- Location: Watauga County, Blowing Rock (10 minutes); Boone (15 minutes)
- Season: December through March (weather permitting)
Why we like it:
Appalachian Ski Mountain is the most approachable ski resort in western North Carolina. It’s small, friendly, and easy to navigate — the kind of place where first-timers and families feel at home.
All slopes are typically groomed daily and their snowmakers keep a deep snow base and fresh powder on the entire mountain. It offers dedicated beginner areas with surface lifts, intermediate runs, and more advanced trails for experts and other options such as terrain parks and night skiing
The resort consistently gets praise for its well-run ski school, helpful staff, and the bonus of a refrigerated outdoor ice rink that stays open even when temperatures warm up (more about ice skating below).
What to watch out for:
- Runs are shorter than those at Sugar Mountain or Beech Mountain, so advanced skiers might find fewer challenges.
- Weekends and holidays can get crowded, especially around the rentals and lifts, so aim for a mid-week visit if you can.
What Appalachian Ski Mountain includes:
- Cozy lodge with fireplace and café
- Full ski and snowboard rentals
- Beginner and children’s lessons
- Night skiing
- Refrigerated outdoor ice rink with rentals
Check the Appalachian ski hill web cam for conditions before you go!
What past guests have said:
“This was our first ski trip and it won’t be our last. We had the best time. Food was decent priced, hot chocolate delicious and slopes so much fun! We rented our equipment from Ski shack which made our first day a breeze. If your renting equipment their then plan to pick up early cause they get busy quick. Also make sure you rent a locker if you’re going to be there more than one day.”
— Lauren H. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Cataloochee Ski Area
BOOK Cataloochee Ski Area
- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (1,086 reviews on Google)
- Location: Maggie Valley, Haywood County, NC, Waynesville (20 minutes); Asheville (45 minutes)
- Season: Typically mid-November through March 1
Why we like it:
Cataloochee Ski Area is one of the first to open each season, thanks to its reliable snowmaking system of air and water guns and its high-elevation location. It offers 18 trails that include beginner, intermediate, and advanced options, making it suitable for a wide range of skill levels.
Just outside Maggie Valley, it’s an easy drive from Asheville and Waynesville, making it one of the most accessible skiing destinations in western North Carolina.
The resort’s friendly staff and family-oriented layout create a welcoming, mid-sized mountain atmosphere that’s ideal for beginners and casual skiers.
What to watch out for:
- On busy weekends and holidays, lift tickets can sell out and lines can get long. Cataloochee strongly encourages visitors to pre-purchase lift tickets to secure a spot.
- Conditions often change throughout the day — icy in the morning, slushy by afternoon — so aim for early runs.
What Cataloochee Ski Area includes:
- Ski and snowboard rentals
- Beginner and intermediate lessons
- Consistent snowmaking and grooming
- Lodge with café and fireplace
- Family-friendly layout and atmosphere
Check the Cataloochee ski area web cam for conditions before you go!
What past guests have said:
“Oh wow! Where do I begin? This was our first time skiing. From the warm welcome to the slopes, Cataloochee Ski Area exceeded our expectations. The smiling faces and helpful staff created a fantastic experience for my family. The camaraderie among the skiers added to the enjoyment and fun. From the moment we arrived, everyone was nice and welcoming. We had a great time. I highly recommend.”
— Allison J. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Ski Sapphire Valley
BOOK Sapphire Valley Ski
- Rating: 4.0 / 5 (363 reviews on Google)
- Location: Jackson County—10 minutes from Cashiers, 25 minutes from Highlands
- Season: Projected opening December 13, 2025
Why we like it:
Sapphire Valley Ski Area is one of the most relaxed skiing experiences in western North Carolina — perfect for first-time skiers, families with young kids, or anyone easing into the sport.
They use HALO for snowmaking, which uses computers to analyze local conditions to determine how to make the best snow, as well as more traditional snowmaking equipment.
It features a main slope for more experienced skiers and a separate beginner slope with a “magic carpet” lift.
They have lessons for all skill levels — its smaller scale and reviewers consistently praise the ski school’s patience and kid-friendly approach. For travelers 40+ who want to try something new without the crowds or steep terrain, Sapphire Valley makes skiing simple and fun.
What to watch out for:
- With only a couple of runs, experienced skiers will find it limited.
- Peak weekends can bring long waits for tickets or rentals, so aim for mid-week if possible.
What Sapphire Valley Ski includes:
- Gentle, beginner-friendly slopes
- Ski and snowboard rentals
- Lessons for children and adults
- Small tubing area
- Access to broader Sapphire Valley Resort amenities
No webcams for conditions, but you can call 828-743-7663 for the latest outlook.
What past guests have said:
“The resort offers ski experience and lessons for beginners as well as more advanced skiers. It’s not a big slope, but it’s a nice run. Tubing was kids friendly. It had four lanes and a moving sidewalk. Loads of fun!”
— Nena R – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Sugar Mountain Resort
BOOK Sugar Mountain Resort
- Rating: 3.9 / 5 (4,487 reviews on Google)
- Location: Avery County — 5 minutes from Banner Elk, 30 minutes from Boone
- Season: Projected opening November 28, 2025 (weather permitting)
Why we like it:
Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in North Carolina, offering the most runs and the greatest vertical drop in the state (1200 feet) and a base elevation of 4100 feet.
They offer 21 trails with a mix for beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert skiers. It’s a solid choice if you’re traveling with family or friends of mixed experience levels.
Strong snowmaking and grooming help keep conditions consistent, and you’ll find snow tubing and an outdoor skating rink on site. They have 8 chairlifts and 100 percent snowmaking coverage making it one of the most complete winter destinations in western North Carolina.
What to watch out for:
- Sugar Mountain’s popularity means weekends and holidays can be crowded, with long lift lines and busier rental areas. Reviewers recommend visiting midweek for a calmer experience.
- Some guests also note that facilities could use updates in high-traffic zones.
What Sugar Mountain Resort includes:
- North Carolina’s largest trail network and vertical drop
- Ski and snowboard rentals
- Lessons for beginners to advanced
- Tubing park and outdoor skating rink
- Multiple dining and lounge options
Check the Sugar Mountain Resort web cams for conditions before you go!
What past guests have said:
“Nice little mountain. Bunny slope was excellent and great for learning. Not a huge variety of runs for beginners but it was good. Looks like they have an excellent kids lesson program. Bus from parking lot to the lodge and nice eating area (fried food grossness so bring food from home!)”
— Tina D. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Beech Mountain Resort
BOOK at Beech Mountain Resort
- Rating: 3.4 / 5 (1,400 reviews on Google)
- Location: Beech Mountain, NC — 20 minutes from Banner Elk; 45 minutes from Boone
- Season: Typically opens in late November (weather permitting)
Why we like it:
Beech Mountain Resort offers 17 trails for beginner, intermediate, and advanced skiers. It has a vertical drop of 830 feet from a peak of 5,506 feet, making it the highest ski area in the eastern United States. The slightly colder temperatures at altitude means a better chance of natural snow.
Having said that, the resort has new and significant snowmaking capability, with a combination of high-tech SMI Super PoleCat snowguns and a newer glycol-cooled air compressor system that boosts its snowmaking capacity and allows for snow production in more challenging temperatures.
The views from the top are some of the best in the Blue Ridge, and the Beech Mountain village offers dining, après-ski options, and a family-friendly vibe. The nearby Beech Mountain Youth Sledding Hill is a hit for kids 12 and under, making this one of the more well-rounded winter activities in western North Carolina.
What to watch out for:
- Beech Mountain has one of the lower Google ratings among North Carolina ski resorts, but the folks at Beech Mountain Resort report that they’ve invested heavily in renovations and updates in the past year, including remodeled dining spaces and infrastructure across the facility and, as mentioned above, new snowmaking equipment.
- Some reviews report long lift lines during weekends and holidays. For the smoothest experience, visit on a weekday or early in the morning, and consider renting gear the night before. Beech Mountain have improved ticketing and rental processes and are confident that wait times have improved.
What Beech Mountain Resort includes:
- Wide range of runs for all skill levels
- Ski and snowboard rentals
- Lessons and ski school programs
- Tubing hill
- Village with dining and après-ski options
Check the Beech Mountain Visitor Center web cam for conditions before you go!
What past guests have said:
“Beech Mountain: Beautiful Slopes, But a Test of Patience… The scenery is stunning—towering trees, crisp mountain air, and sweeping vistas that make even a slow lift ride worth it… The slopes are almost always busy, even on weekdays… The runs themselves are relatively short, which is great for beginners or those looking to practice techniques, but less satisfying if you’re hoping for long, uninterrupted glides down the mountain.”
— Luke S. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Packing list for skiing and snowboarding
Packing for the ski slopes (must-haves):
- Ski socks – keep those feet warm without bulk.
- Helmet – because you know you’re going to fall sometime… (spoiler: I do)!
- Ski jacket and pants – Insulated and waterproof.
- Ski goggles – OutdoorMaster Ski Goggles PRO get rave reviews for comfort and clarity at a fair price.
- Neck gaiter – GoxRunx Winter Neck Gaiter Warmer keeps wind off your face on the chairlift. Personally, I like the full balaclava for full-face & head warmth.
Snow tubing for everyone
If skiing isn’t your thing — or if you’re just looking for a fun, low-pressure way to enjoy the snow — snow tubing in western North Carolina might be your perfect winter activity.
No lessons, no gear, no stress — just grab a tube, hang on, and glide down the slope surrounded by mountain views and laughter.
Western North Carolina’s tubing parks range from massive multi-lane resorts to smaller, family-run hills, making them ideal for couples, families, and anyone who wants to tap into a bit of old-fashioned winter fun.
Each park has its own charm, but the rule of thumb is simple: book early, dress warmly, and go with the flow. Snow tubing is one of the most accessible winter activities in western North Carolina and a great way to spend the day outdoors without the learning curve of skiing.
Pro tip:
Snow-based operations depend on weather, so “open” status is always conditional. Some parks may close or scale back on warmer days.
Always check webcams, social media, or the resort’s website for up-to-date hours and conditions before you go.
Here are three of the best snow tubing parks in western North Carolina, each offering its own take on winter fun.
Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park
BOOK Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park
- Google rating: 4.7 / 5 (1189 reviews)
Location: Jonas Ridge, near Linville Falls and Grandfather Mountain
Season: Mid-December through early March (weather permitting)
Why we like it:
Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park is the quintessential small-town winter experience — simple, fun, and genuinely welcoming.
It’s smaller than the big resorts, which means fewer crowds and a more personal feel. It has a conveyor ride to the top so you can get back to the slopes as soon as possible (and isn’t that what we ALL want??)
For couples or families who prefer an easygoing day outdoors, it’s a fantastic choice. You’ll find a relaxed, family-run atmosphere, friendly staff, and just enough action to make everyone smile.
It’s also conveniently close to Linville Falls and Grandfather Mountain and just off Hwy 181, which allows you avoid icy backroads. So you can pair your tubing session with a bit of winter sightseeing in western North Carolina.
What to watch out for:
- Jonas Ridge relies on SMI Super Polecat snowmakers to make man-made snow, and tubing conditions will improve when temperatures drop.
- Tickets can be reserved online (link below) and the folks at Jonas Ridge prefer it if you do, and there’s a waiver form you must fill out before you arrive.
What Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park includes:
- Five tubing lanes with snowmaking
- Conveyor lift to return to the top
- On-site ticket office (cash and cards accepted)
- Warming hut with hot cocoa and snacks
- Free parking
What past guests have said:
“Nice tubing park. Small, 5 lanes. Convenient parking with easy access off the highway. Well organized: we checked in with no trouble. Easy to buy tickets online. They had enough people working to help direct folks and (they were) focused on safety as tubes were coming down the slopes. Has a nice little lodge with a few staples place to stay warm. All crew were friendly, helpful, and very accommodating.”
— Monika C. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Hawksnest Snow Tubing
BOOK Hawksnest Snow Tubing
- Google rating: 4.5 / 5 (2100+ Google reviews)
- Location: Seven Devils, NC — near Banner Elk and Boone
- Season: Typically late November through early March (weather permitting)
Why we like it:
Hawksnest is the largest snow tubing park in the Southeast, and one of the most organized winter attractions in the region.
With up to 30 well-groomed lanes that range from beginner-friendly to thrillingly steep, you can go as fast or as easy as you want — perfect for multi-generational families or couples who want to enjoy snow tubing in western North Carolina without needing skis.
The park has 100 percent snowmaking capability on all its tubing lanes, which are also equipped with lighting for night tubing.
The resort also features a heated lodge with panoramic views, so tubers can soak in the winter atmosphere after a fun day on the slopes.
What to watch out for:
- Hawksnest is popular — especially on weekends and holidays — so reservations are essential. Tickets often sell out days in advance, and walk-ins are rarely available.
- For a calmer experience, try the early morning or twilight sessions.
- As with all winter activities in North Carolina, conditions can shift quickly, so check the Hawksnest webcam (link below) or call ahead before driving up.
What Hawksnest Snow Tubing includes:
- Up to 30 tubing lanes with full snowmaking and grooming
- Conveyor lifts (no hiking uphill)
- Two zipline courses (seasonal)
- Heated lodge with snack bar and restrooms
- Gear rental and safety staff on-site
- Free parking
Check the Hawksnest Snow Tubing web cam for conditions before you go!
What past guests have said:
“There are 4 different hills to go down so it keeps the foot traffic spread out and also each hill is a different height/length so you have options! Be prepared to wait a little bit, but honestly the lines are always moving so its never too long of a wait. I do recommend getting there early though for parking, grab a snack/drink, and stand at the entrance before call time if you like to be the 1st in line. Love love love and will definitely go again the next time we are in the area!!!!”
— Hannah N. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Tube World at Cataloochee
BOOK Tube World at Cataloochee
- Google rating: 4.3 / 5 (678 Google reviews)
- Location: Maggie Valley, Haywood County
- Season: Mid-December through early March (weather dependent)
Why we like it:
Tube World is a classic snow tubing park in western North Carolina, operated by the well-regarded Cataloochee Ski Area. And because it’s paired with the ski area, they can use the same snowmaking equipment to ensure the park has snow in the off-season.
The experience is smooth, well-organized, and ideal for all ages — especially travelers who want a fun, low-impact winter activity without the intensity of skiing. The runs are short, the lanes are well-maintained, and the conveyor lift makes getting back up effortless.
It’s the perfect half-day outing, especially when paired with lunch or shopping in nearby Maggie Valley, one of the region’s most charming small towns.
What to watch out for:
- Tube World is popular and tickets sell out quickly on weekends and holidays — so online reservations are a must.
- There’s limited parking, so arrive early to secure a spot.
- Like all winter attractions in western North Carolina, operations depend on snowmaking and weather. If it’s been warm or rainy, check their website or Facebook page before you go.
What Tube World at Cataloochee includes:
- Multiple tubing lanes with conveyor lift
- Reliable snowmaking for consistent conditions
- Heated lodge with restrooms and snack bar
- Equipment and helmets provided
- Close to Maggie Valley restaurants and accommodations
What past guests have said:
“Great price for the time allotment. They have shorter runs since it is in town just off highway. However this was perfect for a quick little evening outting that we wanted. Kids had a great time and could go up multiple times very quickly.
Due to the shorter runs they don’t allow connecting tubes like large places due. But we got good speed ! It was a fun time for everyone in our group.”
— Laura P. – See more reviews
▶︎ Check prices and availability now!
Packing list for snow tubing
More ways to enjoy winter in the Blue Ridge
Not every winter day has to be about rushing downhill. There are more slow-paced things to do in North Carolina in winter too — gliding through quiet woods on skis, skating under the open sky, or finding the right gear for a comfortable day outdoors.
Slower-paced activities are adventurous too — just at a gentler, more enjoyable rhythm.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
If you enjoy being out in the snow but prefer peace and quiet to chairlifts and crowds, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing might be your perfect match. The Moses Cone Memorial Park near Blowing Rock is one of the most scenic places to explore on skis or snowshoes — its gently rolling carriage trails turn into beautiful, snow-covered paths after a fresh snowfall.
When conditions allow, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain groom a few trails for cross-country use, usually near their golf courses and outer access roads. Snow depths vary year to year, so check with local visitor centers or the resort websites before heading out.
For gear, you can rent cross-country skis and snowshoes at Ski Country Sports in Banner Elk or Alpine Ski Center in Boone, both of which stock beginner-friendly equipment. If you prefer to bring your own, consider lightweight aluminum snowshoes, trekking poles, and gaiters.
Cross country skiing and snowshoeing essentials
- Snowshoes
- The Cadillac version and the economical version (both top rated at 4.8).
- Cross country ski poles
- Top rated (5.0) LEKI Neolite alpine ski poles
- Gaiters keep snow and moisture out of your boots, and provide warmth and protection.
- Frelaxy Leg waterproof Gaiters specifically designed for snow, good for snowshoeing and skiing
Ice skating at Appalachian Ski Mountain
Appalachian Ski Mountain isn’t just for skiing — it’s also home to one of the most charming ice skating rinks in western North Carolina. The outdoor Appalachian Ice Arena is fully refrigerated, so even when the weather warms, the ice stays smooth and ready.
Skating sessions run both day and night, offering spectacular mountain views under the sun or twinkling lights after dark. You can rent skates on-site, and spectators are welcome to enjoy hot cocoa or coffee from the nearby café.
Location: Appalachian Ski Mountain Ice Arena, near Blowing Rock, NC
Hours: Vary by weather and season — always check the App Ski Mountain Ice Arena schedule before visiting.
Winter sports equipment rentals
Most ski resorts rent equipment on-site, so why would someone go to a winter sports rental shop instead? There are several situations where that might make sense — especially for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a little less hassle.
- Avoiding long rental lines: On busy weekends or holidays, on-mountain rental shops can have hour-long waits. Renting gear from a local shop means you can arrive ready to hit the slopes — no standing in the cold or rushing through fittings.
- Better selection and fitting: Off-site outfitters often carry a wider range of sizes and brands, especially for boots and helmets. They take extra time to ensure the right fit — something older or first-time skiers will appreciate for both comfort and safety.
- Flexibility across resorts: If you plan to ski at multiple mountains (say, Cataloochee one day and Beech Mountain the next), it’s easier to keep the same rental gear for several days rather than re-renting at each location. Multi-day rental discounts can also make this option more affordable.
- Cross-country or snowshoe rentals: Resorts usually focus on downhill skiing, while off-site outfitters stock cross-country skis, snowshoes, and poles — ideal for exploring quieter winter trails like Moses Cone Park or Beech’s outer paths.
- Peace of mind and timing: Some travelers prefer to pick up their gear the night before, especially if they’re staying nearby. It’s one less thing to think about in the morning, so you can start your day relaxed and ready.
Where to rent:
- Edge of the World Snowboard Shop (Banner Elk): Known for friendly staff and flexible rental options for families or groups. The snowboard shop doesn’t have it’s own website, but you’ll find them at 394 Shawneehaw Avenue South in Banner Elk.
- Ski Country Sports (Banner Elk): One of the top-rated shops in the region, offering rentals for skis, snowboards, helmets, and winter clothing.
Choosing the right gear makes all the difference. Well-fitted boots and warm clothing mean less fatigue and more confidence — especially for travelers who want to enjoy a full day outdoors without pushing too hard. Once your rentals are sorted, the next step is packing smart for comfort and warmth.
Where to stay near the slopes
Most ski resorts in western North Carolina have on-site or nearby accommodations, making it easy to stay close to the action — whether you’re planning a full ski weekend or just want to wake up to mountain views.
- Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort – Lodging is currently limited as the resort reopens, but new boutique accommodations are planned for future seasons. For now, nearby Mars Hill and Weaverville offer cozy cabins and vacation rentals within a 30–40 minute drive of Asheville.
- Appalachian Ski Mountain – No on-site lodging, but Blowing Rock and Boone both have excellent choices — from slope-view cabins to B&Bs within 10–15 minutes of the lifts.
- Cataloochee Ski Area – Stay right in Maggie Valley, where you’ll find classic motels, inns, and cabins, many with fireplaces and mountain views.
- Sapphire Valley Ski Area – Part of the Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Sapphire Valley, offering condo-style suites and full resort amenities within walking distance of the ski hill.
- Sugar Mountain Resort – Offers slope-side condos and chalets managed through local agencies. The nearby town of Banner Elk is your best bet for a mix of rentals and restaurants.
- Beech Mountain Resort – The town of Beech Mountain sits directly at the base, with ski-in/ski-out cabins, condos, and lodges available through multiple local rental companies.
“This interactive map shows real-time prices and availability for cabins, lodges, and inns near every major ski and tubing area.”
- Hover over the hotel icons to see info. Click on it to book.
- Use the + and – in the lower right corner to zoom in and out.
No matter where you stay, winter mornings in the Blue Ridge start with frost on the windows and coffee by the fire — the perfect base for exploring all the things to do in North Carolina in winter.
What to pack for a comfortable winter trip
Universal travel essentials that you should consider no matter the destination:
- Travel documents: ID, passport, confirmation numbers, insurance details. emergency contacts.
- Methods of payment: credit/debit cards, some cash
- Comfort items: lightweight jacket or sweater, travel pillow, reading glasses.
- Personal care: toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, tissues.
- Snacks: nuts, trail mix, or granola bars for quick energy.
- Medications: prescriptions, a small first aid kit, motion sickness remedies.
- Electronics: phone, charger, headphones, e-reader/tablet.
Some favorite general travel items of ours:
- This RFID Blocking wallet helps keep cash and cards safe.
- Reusable water bottle: stay hydrated. EverJugs 22 oz. insulated.
- Power bank to recharge your phone on the go.
- (If you’re traveling by airplane, you can generally take one that’s up to 100 watt-hours or about 27,000 mAh, but it must be in your carry-on.)
- Day bag: small backpack or tote for essentials when you’re out exploring. I like this Carhartt Adjustable Waist Pack
And here’s some overnight essentials to consider.
- Clothing layers: mid-weight fleece or sweater, packable rain jacket.
- Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes or light hikers.
- Socks: Warm socks (wool or synthetic, especially for cool evenings).
- Sleepwear that works for cooler nights.
- Indoor shoes: Lightweight slippers or cozy shoes for indoors.
- A good book, deck of cards for offline entertainment.
- A favorite pillow or blanket.
- Snacks for evenings on the porch or in the cabin.
And here’s some recommendations for winter adventures.
- Travel blanket – A warm comfy blanket adds a cozy touch to cabin evenings or long drives.
- Gloves and hat – Good thermal gloves and wool hat (a “touque” in Canadian-speak and a “beanie” in American-speak). I’ve also used a balaclava when the temperatures and wind are cold on my face and they work wonders.
Plus some favorite winter travel items of ours:
- Thermos or mug – Hey, it’s winter and we need drinks to stay hot! Check out the YETI Rambler 30 oz Travel Mug.
- Thermal socks and “base layers” (aka: underwear) – Keep you comfortable on the slopes or hiking trails. MERIWOOL men’s and women’s wool sets are lightweight but insulating.
- Packable jacket – A down or synthetic puffer packs small but adds big warmth. This top-rated jacket from Columbia is good in mild to severe cold.
FAQ (Frequently asked questions)
Here are answers to some of the most common questions travelers ask about things to do in North Carolina in winter.
When does ski season start in western North Carolina?
Most ski resorts in western NC open around Thanksgiving and stay open until mid-March, depending on snow conditions. With snowmaking, the best time for skiing and tubing is usually December through February.
Do I need to bring my own ski equipment?
No — all of the major resorts (Sugar, Beech, and Appalachian) rent skis, snowboards, and helmets on-site. If you’d rather avoid the rental lines, local shops like Ski Country Sports in Banner Elk offer full gear packages.
Does it snow in Asheville in the winter?
Yes, but snowfall in Asheville itself is usually light and roads are cleared quickly. Heavier snow falls in the higher elevations around the city, especially at ski resorts like Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain.
What is there to do in western North Carolina in December?
December brings seasonal highlights like the Polar Express Train Ride in Bryson City, Christmas at Biltmore, small-town parades, and holiday markets. It’s also prime time for skiing, tubing, and ice skating at the mountain resorts.
Which ski resort in western North Carolina is best for beginners?
Appalachian Ski Mountain is often considered the most beginner-friendly, thanks to its smaller size and excellent ski school. Sapphire Valley is another good choice if you’re looking for very gentle slopes.
Is western North Carolina busy in winter?
Ski weekends can be crowded, especially around holidays. But weekdays and non-holiday stretches are quieter. Small towns like Blowing Rock, Boone, and Bryson City also feel more relaxed compared to the fall leaf season.
What if I don’t ski?
There’s still plenty to enjoy: snow tubing, ice skating, holiday light displays, visiting hot springs, exploring breweries, and simply relaxing in a mountain cabin with a view. Hawksnest has one of the largest snow tubing parks in the Southeast, and Appalachian Ski Mountain offers outdoor ice skating. For a slower pace, visit Asheville’s Biltmore Estate, the NC Arboretum’s Winter Lights, or the Omni Grove Park Inn’s gingerbread house displays.
Conclusion: the best active things to do in North Carolina in winter
Winter in western North Carolina blends crisp mountain air, friendly mountain towns, and plenty of ways to get outside. It’s a season built for adventure at your own pace.
There are a multitude of ski and snowboard hills in the state, and snow tubing parks as well. All are very good — the two top-rated operations for customer satisfaction are:
- Top ski resort: Hatley Pointe Mountain Resort — a newly reopened boutique-style mountain with upgraded snowmaking and a friendly, uncrowded vibe.
- Top tubing adventure: Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park — small, welcoming, and perfect for families or couples who want classic winter fun without the crowds.
You don’t have to race down black-diamond runs or chase adrenaline to enjoy the Blue Ridge in winter. Sometimes the best memories come from a slower pace — a scenic chairlift ride, a shared laugh on the tubing hill, or that first hot drink after a cold day outdoors.
So if you’ve been wondering what to do in North Carolina in winter, western North Carolina is where to start — easygoing adventure, cozy charm, and a season that’s as much about comfort as it is about motion.
Plan your trip with our favorite resources
- #1 online accommodations booking platform. Booking.com
- Global guided tours with reviews: Viator
- Find, compare, and rent cars: DiscoverCars
- Buy travel insurance: SafetyWing
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