Asheville, located in the western part of North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers skiers plenty of choices. Areas surrounding Asheville offer some of the highest elevations east of the Mississippi River, giving skiers many options. Even though the greater Asheville area does not feature the cold temperatures of more northern areas, there's just enough snow each winter for skiers to enjoy themselves.
Locations
Although Asheville stays snow free for most of the year because of its lower elevation, higher elevations surrounding the city are ideal ski locations. The closest slops are just 30 to 45 minutes away from Asheville, such as the Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley and Wolf Ridge Ski Resort in Mars Hill. Travelers staying in Asheville who are willing to travel a little further have plenty of ski slopes to choose from. Blowing Rock, Beech Mountain and Banner Elk are all within 2 hours of Asheville.
Features
Asheville-area ski slopes get up to 60 inches of snow a year, according to Explore Asheville. Even during a less snowy winter season, snow-making machines ensure that Asheville-area slopes remain packed with powder-fresh man-made snow. Mountains in the area reach up to 5,500 feet, with Wolf Ridge Ski Resort sitting at 4,700 feet and Sapphire Valley reaching a comparable 4,400 elevation. High temperatures in the region hover around 50 degrees in December, January and February.
Season
Because Ashville area temperatures reach the mid-80s during the summer months, year-round skiing is not available in this area. The North Carolina ski season runs from Thanksgiving weekend through the end of March. However, resorts will sometimes open before late November if weather conditions are suitable for skiing.
Accommodation Types
Skiers enjoying the Asheville-area slopes can take advantage of several accommodation types. Some resorts offer log homes that feature several bedrooms, wrap-around decks and kitchens. These accommodations work well for a family ski vacation. Other travelers can stay at traditional hotels in the Asheville area. Mid-range options such as condos also are available.
Activites
Asheville-area ski slopes offer skiers a wealth of activities to keep them active. Skiers can choose from a range of slopes for everything from beginners to experts. When they tire of skiing, travelers can enjoy tubing, snowboarding and ice-skating. Novice skiers can sign up for ski or snowboarding school to receive instruction from experts. Depending on the time of year, many ski resorts offer special events, ranging from evening fireworks to holiday celebrations.
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