Beech Mountain: Ski and Snowboard in NC Mountains

Ski & Snowboard
As the highest ski area in the eastern U.S., Beech Mountain Resort (Ski Beech) offers 15 slopes on 95 acres of skiable area. There are plenty of runs for every skill level, and with a vertical drop of 830 feet and more than 80 inches of annual snowfall, Beech Mountain Resort (Ski Beech) stands out as the premier ski resort in the South. The resort’s snowmaking capabilities, added to the abundant natural snowfall, have earned it the title Snow Capital of the South, with a reputation as the best snow skiing in North Carolina. Snowboarding is also a favorite activity, and the high-speed Quad Lift—the region’s most efficient chairlift—keeps lift lines short and ski days efficient. Need some lessons? They offer individual and group snow skiing and snowboarding lessons for beginners, even as young as 3 years old.

Alpine Village & Ice Skating
Not into skiing or snowboarding? There’s still plenty to do and enjoy. The Alpine Village at Beech Mountain offers unique shops, dining lodges, and a nursery, as well as a 7,000-square-foot ice skating rink. There is also a free sledding hill next to town hall for kids 12 years and under open daily 9am till 5 pm weather permitting.

Snowshoe & Hike
Snowshoe on the 20-mile trail system maintained by the town of Beech Mountain (when there is natural snow cover on the ground). Or hike on warmer days. Rent snowshoes from the Buckeye Rec Center (call 828-387-3003 for availability) by the hour, half-day or full day. Private snowshoe guided excursions are also available for a hourly rate. Or take a free snowshoe guided tour through Beech Mountains Alpine wilderness on the town's publicly maintained trail system. Free guided group snowshoe tours are January 14 and February 11, 2012.

Shopping
From antique stores to sidewalk shops, there’s always something to catch your eye. You can’t talk about shopping on Beech Mountain without mentioning its most famous general store—Fred’s General Mercantile. Fred’s features groceries, clothing, garden supplies, sleds, hardware, and winter sport rentals. If Fred’s doesn’t have it, you don’t need it. Nearby Banner Elk, Boone and Blowing Rock offer dozens of downtown stores and galleries.

Hike & Mountain Bike
During spring, summer and fall, explore the 20-mile trail system. Take an easy stroll through the woods, or if you really want a challenge, make the eight-mile trek through a thousand feet of elevation change. You’ll see wildlife, waterfalls, picturesque lakes, and scenic vistas that showcase the breathtaking beauty of western North Carolina. Read more about the Beech Mountain Trails.

Beech Mountain Lodging and Rentals
Break free from chain establishments and select from an assortment of accommodations. From budget to luxury, choose from mountain lodges, bed and breakfasts, home rentals, cabins, chalets, and condos. Click here to visit their Web site. (Photo on right is the view of the ski slopes from a condo at Pinnacle Inn)

Fall Color & Land of Oz
Peak fall color in the Beech Mountain area is usually around the second week of October. See our Fall Foliage Guide for more details. Also each fall, enjoy the once-a-year tours of the Land of Oz! Read more about Land of Oz.