The first snowfall of winter triggers something special here in Maggie Valley and all across North Carolina. Crisp mountain air, rosy cheeks, warm mittens, woolen scarves, and the thing we’ve all been waiting for…fresh powder. Strapping on a pair of skis or a snowboard and feeling the thrill of carving a path down the mountain is the perfect cure for cabin fever. Keep reading for a list of our favorite ski resorts where you’ll find the best skiing in North Carolina!
Cataloochee Ski Area
At the Meadowlark Motel, we’re lucky to have the Cataloochee Ski Area – one of the premier ski resorts in the Smoky Mountains – right in our backyard. With a lengthy snow season that lasts from mid-November to late March, Maggie Valley is the ideal spot for an exciting winter adventure that’s fun for the whole family.
With elevations up to 5,400 feet, its 18 slopes offer winter excitement for everyone. The trails are 44% beginner, 39% intermediate, and 17% advanced to expert. And with extensive snow making capabilities, it keeps more base snow on the mountainside than many other ski resorts in the Smoky Mountains.
The on-site school offers ski and snowboard lessons, and the Cat Cage Terrain Park features ramps, rails, and boxes for snowboarding runs that will get your heart pumping. When your fingers get frosty, head into the lodge where you can grab a bite to eat in the restaurant or a warm drink in the bar. (P.S. Live bluegrass music is offered there on Fridays!)
Sugar Mountain Resort
The Sugar Mountain Ski Resort in North Carolina’s Smoky Mountains is the High Country’s winter vacation spot filled with adventure and incredible mountain scenery. The summit stretches into the sky, reaching nearly 5,300 feet, and with snowfall averages of more than 70 inches of natural powder, you’ll find some spectacular ski conditions. The resort features 125 acres of fun with 21 slopes and the largest vertical drop in the state at a whopping 1,200 feet. As a ski town, Sugar Mountain is a one-stop shop. In addition to skiing in North Carolina, there’s snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing and winter hiking. Get your gear at local winter sport shops and ski equipment rentals.
Beech Mountain Resort
The Beech Mountain Ski Resort has a cool claim to fame. Its summit elevation is 5,506 feet above sea level, which makes it the highest ski resort in all of eastern North America. And with 17 slopes across 95 skiable acres and 830 feet of vertical rise, there’s a trail for every skill level. Tackle the longest run at 1 mile or raise your high-flying game at the terrain park. There’s also ice skating and snow tubing available plus a little something extra. Head to the resort’s Sky Bar to sample the craft beer that’s brewed right on site at Beech Mountain Brewing Company.
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort caters to skiers of all skill levels and is located 30 minutes North of Asheville, an easy day trip from Maggie Valley, NC. Like Cataloochee Ski Area, Wolf Ridge Ski Resort also has snow-making equipment, so they stay open even when there is no natural snowfall. In addition to ski slopes, Wolf Ridge caters to snowboarders and has a tube run as well. The season usually runs from December through March, but Wolf Ridge has opened as early as Thanksgiving in the past. They have everything you need, including ski and snowboard equipment rentals, special events, and fun winter programs. Catering to the large community of skiing in North Carolina, Wolf Ridge also operates a Snow Sport School, featuring lessons for beginning skiers and snowboarders.
Appalachian Ski Mountain
Over in nearby Blowing Rock, NC, Appalachian Ski Mountain offers 10 slopes, 3 exciting terrain parks, an outdoor ice skating rink, and an observation deck with panoramic mountain views. With peak elevations of 4,000 feet and a vertical rise of 365 feet, your day on the slopes will be epic. To warm up, head into the Bavarian style lodge and grab a bite to eat beside the fireplace that overlooks the slopes.
Stay at the Meadowlark Motel
Just minutes from Cataloochee Ski Area, at the Meadowlark Motel, we are happy to be your home away from home on your next outdoor adventure skiing in North Carolina. Our Appalachian chic décor and retro motor court vibe deliver a cozy winter escape where you can rest and relax after an invigorating day on the slopes. Nestled in a serene mountain setting beside the beautiful Jonathan Creek, you can choose from 38 cabins, guest rooms, and cottages with amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast. Click here to book your next stay!
