Other Winter Activities in Western North Carolina
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Straddling North Carolina and Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park takes in the North Carolina counties of Haywood and Swain, as well as several Tennessee counties. The park offers a wealth of opportunities for recreation in every month of the year, from hiking to exhibits. Visit the official website to learn more.
Smoky Mountain Christmas Tree Farm
Located at 756 Hemphill Road in Waynesville, in Haywood County, Smoky Mountain Christmas Tree Farm is a ‘must’ to visit for those who love everything about the Christmas season, or just everything about Fraser Firs. Hand-sheared with love and 35 years of expertise, these Fraser Firs offer an authentic mountain Christmas experience. The smell is heavenly and the joy of hand-picking your own mountain-grown tree is priceless.
Tube World
Load up the family and go snow tubing and snowmobiling at Tube World. Offering one of the most popular activities in Maggie Valley, Tube World is open during the winter. While it is affiliated with Cataloochee Ski Resort, it is located approximately four miles from the Cataloochee Ski Resort. It opens in December annually, with reservations accepted beginning November 1st.
Tweetsie Railroad and The Polar Express
Situated between Boone and Blowing Rock, North Carolina, the Tweetsie Railroad is a Wild West Theme Park and the centerpiece is a train ride through beautiful mountain terrain. The ride is a great delight for the young and the young at heart. It is normally open April through November, but the park does a few runs during the Christmas season when it transforms into the ‘Polar Express’.
Whitewater Rafting
Rolling Thunder River Company operates three whitewater rafting locations in western North Carolina, including Nantahala River, Ocoee River and Toccoa River. They’re open year-round and serve all skill levels.