When people think about skiing in the U.S., they usually picture the Rocky Mountains or the snowy slopes of the Northeast. But there’s a hidden gem in the South that deserves attention — Boone, North Carolina.
Tucked along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone is called the “Ski Capital of the South.” The drive to get there is just as beautiful as the destination itself, surrounded by stunning Appalachian Mountain views.
Ski Adventures in Boone
Boone has three ski resorts located close to each other:
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Appalachian Ski Mountain: The oldest resort in the area, open since 1962. It has 13 runs, a popular ski school, and night skiing on all slopes. There’s also an outdoor ice rink, and it’s close to the lovely town of Blowing Rock.
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Sugar Mountain Resort: The biggest and steepest of the three, with 21 runs spread across 125 acres. It also offers night skiing on 14 trails. Nearby, Hawksnest Tubing Park is the largest snow tubing park in the Southeast, with over 30 lanes of fun.
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Beech Mountain Ski Resort: The highest ski area in the eastern U.S. It has 17 runs, six chairlifts, and amazing views. After skiing, visitors can relax at Beech Mountain Brewing Co. or enjoy drinks at the summit’s 5,506′ Sky Bar.
More to Explore
Boone isn’t just about skiing — it’s full of local charm. You’ll find family-owned shops like Fred’s General Mercantile at the base of Beech Mountain and art spots along the Blue Ridge Craft Trails, featuring local artisans and handmade goods. For a great meal, The Gamekeeper serves locally sourced dishes and wild game.
Getting There
The most scenic route to Boone is the Blue Ridge Parkway, known as “America’s Favorite Drive.” Travelers flying in can land at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and take the Hickory Hop shuttle to reach Boone.
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