WINTER GETAWAYS & SKI TRIPS

When winter comes, Beech Mountain comes alive with an influx of visitors and ski enthusiasts eager to enjoy all the winter activities the mountain has to offer. Since we are the highest town in the Eastern USA, we are the coldest and snowiest town in the North Carolina Blue Ridge Mountains! This makes Beech the perfect place for skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing, and sledding. Or simply relax by the fire in one of the many cozy cabins, condos, or homes for rent.

Ski season usually kicks off around Thanksgiving Weekend (weather permitting) and extends into early March. Opened in 1967, Beech Mountain Resort has 95 skiable acres with a peak elevation of 5,506 feet and an 830-foot vertical rise. Their lift capacity for 17 trails is 10,858 skiers per hour! Snowboarders find two terrain parks. For non-skiers, go snow tubing. Relax in two restaurants and grab gear in their sports shops. Equipment rentals and lessons available every day. Tip: Book ahead online!

Find plenty to do off the slopes as well! Wooosh on down the town’s Sledding Hill. Designed for kids ages 12 and under, the hill is steep enough for older kids to have fun, with a gentler sloping area for younger kids to stay safe. It’s a FUNtastic way to introduce kids to winter sports. It’s free thanks to our Parks & Recreation team.

Tips:

Holiday weekends and the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve are the busiest times to visit and require earlier booking and a spoonful of patience.
A mid-week visit to the Beech Mountain Resort means fewer crowds, shorter lines, and a more relaxing winter adventure. Mid-week visits are also lighter on your wallet!
If you are a first-time skier or snowboarder, take a lesson first.
If visiting during peak times, expect delays and plan meals accordingly. Try dining outside of busy hours (late lunches or early dinners). See our Restaurant Guide.
Be prepared for winter weather! Often, we are 20-25 degrees colder than cities such as Charlotte, Raleigh, Atlanta or Knoxville. Weather changes quickly and sometimes we get several snows in a week. See our Winter Driving Tips!
What to Wear? Layers are your best friend! Wear a layer of thermal underwear, a cozy mid-layer like a turtleneck, and a waterproof outer layer. Your body will heat up on the slopes, and you will be able to shed layers as needed. Fleece works great as a mid-layer because it tends to keep moisture from your sweat in vapor form making it easier to get through your jacket. Avoid using Cotton which holds moisture and will make a chill layer. Long polypropylene underwear feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat, and keeps you warm.
Don’t forget insulated gloves, warm socks, and reliable headgear. When it comes to ski boots, ensure a snug yet comfortable.
Bring sunscreen. Despite cold temperatures, the sunlight reflected off the snow can cause burning.