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SkiingYour Guide to Skiing the Smokies
Discover the 9 Best Ski Resorts Around the Great Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains aren’t just a summer destination—they transform into a snowy playground every winter, offering incredible opportunities for skiing enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re carving down the slopes at Ober Mountain or gliding along tranquil cross-country trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the region blends thrilling adventures with breathtaking scenery. Add in cozy mountain lodges, après-ski dining, and plenty of family-friendly activities, and you have the ultimate winter escape. From snow tubing to backcountry skiing, the Smokies deliver unforgettable winter fun in a spectacular alpine setting.
Top Ski Resorts
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park
Runs: 10
Day Pass: Starting at $45
Season: December to March
Ober Gatlinburg combines the thrill of skiing with the fun of an amusement park, offering a unique experience in the Smoky Mountains. The resort features 10 trails catering to all skill levels, from beginner-friendly slopes to challenging intermediate runs. Families love the Ski Mountain Coaster and Alpine Slide, while snowboarders flock to the freestyle terrain park. The scenic Aerial Tramway transports visitors from downtown Gatlinburg to the resort, providing stunning views along the way. With options for snow tubing, ice skating, and après-ski dining, Ober Gatlinburg delivers winter fun both on and off the slopes.
Cataloochee Ski Area, Maggie Valley, NC
Runs: 18
Day Pass: Starting at $70
Season: November to March
Cataloochee Ski Area is a favorite among families and beginners, thanks to its well-maintained slopes and renowned ski school programs. Located in the heart of Maggie Valley, the resort boasts 18 runs spread across 50 acres, with 44% of trails designed for novice skiers. Cataloochee is also one of the first resorts in the region to open each season, thanks to advanced snowmaking technology. Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains from the summit, and be sure to visit the warming lodge for hearty comfort food after a day on the slopes.
Appalachian Ski Mountain, Blowing Rock, NC
Runs: 12
Day Pass: Starting at $45
Season: November to March
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian Ski Mountain offers a boutique skiing experience with 12 runs and 3 terrain parks. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the resort features gentle slopes perfect for beginners and an impressive ski school program. Advanced skiers and snowboarders will appreciate the Big App Terrain Park, which offers jumps, rails, and boxes for freestyle enthusiasts. The cozy lodge includes a fireside dining area and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a day on the slopes.
Sugar Mountain Resort, Sugar Mountain, NC
Runs: 21
Day Pass: Starting at $85
Season: November to March
Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in North Carolina, boasting 21 trails and 125 acres of skiable terrain. This expansive resort caters to skiers of all levels, with steep Black Diamond runs like Whoopdedoo challenging advanced players and wide beginner slopes such as Easy Street welcoming newcomers. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers snowshoeing and tubing, making it a versatile winter destination. The summit rewards skiers with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, while the base lodge provides dining, gear rentals, and après-ski relaxation.
Beech Mountain Resort, Beech Mountain, NC
Runs: 17
Day Pass: Starting at $70
Season: November to March
As the highest ski area in the eastern United States, Beech Mountain Resort delivers thrilling runs and stunning views at 5,506 feet above sea level. The resort features 17 trails, a terrain park, and a dedicated freestyle area for snowboarders. Beech Mountain’s Alpine Village is a highlight, offering shopping, dining, and seasonal events like live music at the Beech Tree Bar and Grille. Night skiing is a popular option here, and the resort also boasts an ice-skating rink and snow tubing park, ensuring fun for all ages.
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort, Mars Hill, NC
Runs: 15
Day Pass: Starting at $50
Season: December to March
Wolf Ridge Ski Resort offers a relaxed and affordable skiing experience just 30 minutes from Asheville, NC. With 15 trails and a summit elevation of 4,700 feet, the resort provides scenic mountain views and varied terrain for beginners and intermediates. The Timberline Lodge at the base is a cozy retreat featuring a large fireplace and hot beverages. Skiers can also enjoy night skiing and affordable rental packages, making Wolf Ridge an excellent choice for budget-conscious families and casual skiers.
Cross Country Skiing
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, TN
Trail Distance: Over 800 miles of hiking trails with multiple options for cross-country skiing
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to March
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park transforms into a serene winter wonderland, offering prime opportunities for cross-country skiing. While the park doesn’t have groomed trails, areas like Clingmans Dome Road and Cades Cove Loop Road (both closed to vehicle traffic in winter) are popular for skiing. These trails offer stunning views of snow-dusted peaks, frosty valleys, and peaceful forests. For adventure seekers, the quiet, snow-laden paths provide a chance to explore the Smokies in solitude. Bring your own equipment, as rentals are not available inside the park.
Roan Mountain State Park, Roan Mountain, TN
Trail Distance: 12 miles of hiking trails suitable for cross-country skiing in winter
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to February
Roan Mountain State Park is a favorite winter destination, with its rolling terrain and snow-covered forests offering excellent cross-country skiing opportunities. The Cloudland Trail, leading to Roan High Bluff, provides spectacular ridge-line views and snow-draped rhododendron groves. The park’s combination of scenic beauty, solitude, and accessibility makes it a top pick for skiers seeking adventure. Limited amenities are available during the winter months, so plan accordingly.
Cataloochee Valley, Maggie Valley, NC
Trail Distance: Approximately 3 miles of trails
Day Pass: Free
Season: December to March
Located in the eastern section of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cataloochee Valley is a hidden gem for cross-country skiing. Known for its elk herds and historic structures, the valley’s flat, open terrain makes it ideal for beginners and casual skiers. Popular routes include the Cove Creek Road area, where gentle slopes wind through pristine meadows and past historic cabins. Cataloochee offers a peaceful escape and stunning winter views but requires skiers to bring their own equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Planning a ski trip to the Great Smoky Mountains? Find answers to your top questions about the region’s best winter activities, ski resorts, and trails. From kid-friendly slopes to scenic cross-country skiing routes in National Parks, the Smoky Mountains offer a winter wonderland for all skill levels.
Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg is ideal for beginners, offering gentle slopes and a welcoming atmosphere for first-time skiers. Their ski school provides excellent lessons for all ages, making it a great choice for families and new skiers.
Ober Mountain has a few challenging black diamond runs for advanced skiers, including the popular Grizzly trail. These steep and narrow trails are perfect for those seeking adrenaline-filled descents.
Yes, all major resorts, including Ober Mountain, offer ski rentals. Prices for skis, boots, and poles typically start around $25- $45 per day. Snowboard rentals are also available.
Ober Mountain offers snowboarding opportunities alongside skiing. They also have terrain parks with features like rails and jumps for freestyle enthusiasts.
Yes! After a day on the slopes, head to Ober Mountain’s Seasons of Ober Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty meals. Alternatively, Gatlinburg’s downtown offers fantastic dining spots like The Peddler Steakhouse and Smoky Mountain Brewery.
Ober Mountain is highly family-friendly, with activities like snow tubing, an indoor ice rink, and the scenic aerial tramway for non-skiers. It’s an excellent destination for multi-generational trips.