N.C. offers mountains far enough south to dodge the extreme cold temperatures that often accompany the ski resorts in the northern states yet high enough to deliver impressively steep slopes. 

     Ski season in N.C. typically runs from November to early April and the variety of ski resorts in N.C. emphasizes family skiing. The resorts include a mix of beginner runs to get people starting out interested in the sport and more adventurous trails for experienced skiers to cruise.

     “I got into skiing from all the ski trips my family has taken throughout the years. It has become a big family-bonding activity for me, and the ski resorts are very family friendly,” senior Filiberto Mazzacurati said

     Ski slopes on ski resorts are divided into different difficulty levels: a green circle being the easiest, blue square as intermediate, black diamond being difficult, and double black diamond as advanced. 

     “While they are difficult at the start, black diamonds have become some of my favorite runs down the mountain. My advice is don’t be afraid to fall and eat — that’s what makes it fun,” junior Caiden Macfarlen said. 

     Snowmaking capabilities allow for a constant supply of fresh snow and endless days of prime conditions for skiing. Lift ticket prices sell at an exceptional value, and families in particular will find these resorts have everything they are looking for. The resorts offer a wide range of snow activities: skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and monoski. 

     Apart from snow activities, resorts offer a variety of other activities. Quaint mountain towns set in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains add to the experience, and come with ample social activities for after the day of skiing along with a full range of lodging options. These include visiting the spa, swimming in the hot tub, or lounging in the pool. Many resorts are surrounded by shops where families can enjoy hot chocolate, spend an evening dining at a restaurant, or purchase souvenirs to remember the experience. 

     N.C. offers numerous resorts along the Appalachian Mountain Range. Offering the largest ski area in N.C., the most diverse range of runs, and the most vertical (a 1,200-foot vertical drop), Sugar Mountain provides exceptional skiing conditions. Although subject to change, ski/slope prices for adults range from $49 to $80 and for youth, $39 to $57. 

     Unlike some other ski resorts in the state, here people can find steep runs and challenging sections, as well as plenty of greens and blues for beginners and intermediate skiers. Sugar Mountain accommodates everyone from beginners to experts. 

     When asking locals about their favorite ski hills in N.C., Beech Mountain is a common answer. According to the Beech Mountain Resort, the mountain has a peak elevation of 5,506 feet and is known for being the highest ski area in the eastern U.S.

     Eight lifts service the mountain’s 17 runs, spread across 95 skiable acres, and the total vertical drop is 830 feet. Including a Burton Learn-to-Ride center for those aged 6-12 years, Beech also offers a terrain park, an area containing terrain that allows skiers, snowboarders and snow bikers to perform tricks.

     Located in Snowshoe, W.V., Snowshoe Mountain Resort often gets the best snow in the region due to its high elevation. The resort has an average snowfall of 180 inches, and, while much of the East Coast is known for heavier wet snow, Snowshoe is known for its light, dry powder.

     According to travel blogger Julie from More than Main Street, Snowshoe Mountain is reported as one of the best ski resorts in the East for beginners with private and group lessons available for all ages and ability levels.

     While preparing for a ski trip, staying warm and layering is important while still staying comfortable and mobile. Ski jackets and pants that are water-resistant and insulated with convenient pockets are best as they have ski-specific features that prevent snow from falling into your boots and reaching your clothes. 

     “I like using neck scarves to protect my neck from the cold and goggles also come in handy, especially when snowing, because the snow can be blown into your eyes and hurt your eyes and block you from seeing,” Mazzacurati said. 

     Ski socks that are taller than boots and not overly thick are essential in keeping the feet warm; however, overly thick socks can make feet colder if they make the boots too tight and restrict blood circulation.

     “If it’s rainier and the snow is slushy, I would recommend waterproof jackets and pants, but if the sun is out, the East Coast can get really hot, so I would just wear a sweatshirt and pants,” senior Will Farrell said. 

     In general, cold weather gear is not always needed to ski in N.C.. The mountains are relatively low, and daytime temperatures are usually just a bit below freezing. 

     Helmets and goggles are recommended for safety precautions and can either be bought personally or obtained by renting from the resorts. Gear is also often provided by smaller rental shops neighboring the resorts. 

     “Most of my gear is personal, but I have rented skis, snowboards, and boots from a ski rental nearby the mountain house I was staying at. I would recommend checking smaller rental places around because gear can get expensive and these shops sometimes provide cheaper options than the resorts offer,” Macfarlene said. 

     Resorts operate in compliance with local health authority recommendations. This may include mask-wearing, physical distancing, and other requirements. Be sure to check the website of the resort when planning to visit prior to setting out to avoid any surprises and disappointments. 

    According to travel guide, Dari Vasiljeva from Rove.me, skiing is the best in late February into March. The days start to get longer, are warm with the sun regaining strength, and the snowpack base is the deepest.

    “I typically try to schedule my ski trips during February. I’ve experienced the best snowfall and conditions during that time, but I would beware of any ice over the slopes that could be dangerous,” Farrell said. 

     Finding your family’s most ideal resort and learning how to dress for the weather can open up new worlds with unique, shared experiences skiing. Upon learning the basics, skiing is a sport where one is able to adopt their own style and enjoy the bracing air on their face and the rush of snow beneath their skis.