The Best Ski Resorts In and Around Boone

By Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, Local Information, Seven Devils, Sugar Mountain February 22, 2021
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The ski industry in North Carolina brings in tens of thousands of ski enthusiasts. The High Country of North Carolina is home to some of the best skiing in the southeast. Home to Appalachian Ski Mountain, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain, there are a variety of options for winter sports.

Skiing in the High Country

Ski season in the High Country typically begins around Thanksgiving and runs into late March. Most of the resorts in the High Country use natural and manmade snow to create excellent slope conditions when combined with sub-freezing temperatures. The best ski resorts are just a short drive from Boone, Banner Elk or Blowing Rock so you can hit the slopes and make it to your favorite downtown haunt with ease.

#1: Appalachian Ski Mountain

Appalachian Ski Mountain is the closest to downtown Boone at about a six mile drive and is less than four miles from downtown Blowing Rock. Appalachian Ski Mountain is the oldest ski resort in the High Country, opening up in 1962.

The mountain boasts 10 slopes and two impressive terrain parks. Appalachian Ski Mountain is a great option for beginners due to the approachable runs and is a favorite amongst Boone locals who love the short drive and great bang for your buck.

For more advanced skiers and snowboarders, the two terrain parks offer an opportunity to get creative unlike any other in the region. The mountain is also home to the French Swiss Ski College, which is the Southeast’s largest ski school. Appalachian Ski Mountain has a Bavarian style lodge with a restaurant, lounge, shops and an observation deck to watch all the action on the mountain.

#2: Beech Mountain Resort

 

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At 5,506, Beech Mountain Resort is the highest ski area in the east. The resort is located on Beech Mountain, a beautiful 24 mile drive from downtown Boone and about five miles from Banner Elk. Beech Mountain has 15 slopes and 7 chair lifts, offering a variety of terrain for both skiers and snowboarders.

The weeknight deals such as “Ladies’ Night” and “Men’s Night” are a big draw for locals looking to hit the slopes with friends and at a super affordable rate. One of the big draws to Beech Mountain Resort is the 5506’ Skybar. Boasting a 2,800 square foot deck, 5506’ is at the very top of Beech Mountain. Enjoying a beverage or snack at this location, with views across the region is incomparable.

#3: Sugar Mountain Resort

 

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Sugar Mountain Resort is just four miles from Banner Elk on top of Sugar Mountain, 16 miles from Boone. Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in North Carolina, with 20 slopes and eight lifts. There are 115 skiable acres on Sugar Mountain Resort! The resort has a shop, restaurants, and a lounge. With opportunities for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, Sugar Mountain Resort is a must for winter sports enthusiasts!

Winter Sports Options For Kids

Hawksnest Snow Tubing

If you want to get the kids out to play but don’t want to commit to skiing, Hawksnest Snow Tubing in Seven Devils is an excellent choice as well! Hawksnest is the largest snow tubing park on the east coast and is a hit for families. Located between Boone and Banner Elk, it’s super convenient. For thrill seekers, check out their Snowbird Zipline!

Find NC Property Near Ski Resorts

The luxury and lifestyle of living on the slopes is a winter sport enthusiasts dream. 828 Real Estate’s resort and second property specialists can help you find the perfect mountain home. From slope-side condos to intimate mountain cabins, our local network of real estate professionals are unmatched with connecting buyers and sellers of High Country, Blue Ridge Mountain properties.

About the Author
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Sarah Long, NC Broker/Owner/REALTOR® • 828-773-2413 • [email protected]

I am a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, but I have been in North Carolina since1997 when I moved to Boone to attend Appalachian State University. I earned my degree in Theatre Education and Communications. While at ASU I met my husband, Matt Long, a Boone native and general contractor, and gained a heart for these mountains and my beloved ASU Mountaineers. After graduation, I spent 5 years teaching in Charlotte before being given the opportunity to move back to the High Country. In 2007 I earned my NC Real Estate License and began in full-time brokerage. In 2010 I helped to open a franchise brokerage in the High Country. I gained impactful knowledge and built important relationships during my 8 years there, but began to feel the calling to get back to my roots.

In June of 2018, my dream became a reality when I opened 828 Real Estate. We are a boutique brokerage that is locally focused, community-minded and client-driven. I feel so fortunate to be in a career that I love, have opportunities to serve wonderful clients, and get to work with the best team here at 828 Real Estate.

I am a member of The High Country Association of Realtors, the North Carolina Association of Realtors, the National Association of Realtors. I am a member the Boone Chamber of Commerce and I am on the board for the Downtown Boone Development Association. I have also completed the Realtor  e-Pro certification that specifically focuses on the technology tools needed in the purchase or sale of a property. Additionally, I have earned my CLHMS Designation. (Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist) and a qualified LuxuryHomes.com Affiliate. Over the years I have been awarded various Top Producer Awards. I am honored each year to be invited to the Top 50 Brokers in the High Country celebration.

My husband and I reside in downtown Boone and have 2 beautiful children, Sadie Rose and Levi. We attend Alliance Bible Fellowship and stay connected by serving the community and supporting local non-profits like Western Youth Network, The Appalachian Theatre and Valle Crucis Community Park. We love to spend time outside hiking, playing on the river, running with their dog, Emmie Lou, hitting the slopes and making the most of our time in this amazing place we get to call home!