Situated between the two largest ski resorts for snow sports in the Southeast, Banner Elk is the top mountain town in North Carolina for a winter adventure getaway. A few miles north of town is Beech Mountain, the highest ski area in eastern USA with an average of 80+ inches of snow each year and 17 runs. A few miles south is Sugar Mountain with 21 runs and has 100% snowmaking capability when Mother Nature needs a little help. Together, ski and snowboard on 200+ acres. Plus, go tubing, ice skating and snow shoeing. Or just sit back and watch the fun!
If you are new to skiing or snowboarding, both resorts offer lessons. Plus, there are many fun events and special weekends with plenty of festivities. Go midweek for the best deals including big discounts on lift tickets. During most winters, the ski season begins by Thanksgiving Weekend.
If you prefer riding the slopes on a tube, just 10 miles away is Hawksnest (2058 Skyland Drive, Seven Devils), the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast. Their 30 lanes span 400-1000 feet long with a variety of terrain. Both Beech and Sugar also have smaller tubing areas.
Go to the Banner Elk Ski Town Web site for more.
Banner Elk is certainly extra festive during the Christmas season, complete with many extra events like the tree lighting and night parade. After a hard day’s play, relax during a fabulous dinner at one of the fantastic restaurants in Banner Elk, a surprising culinary hot spot in the high country.
Small Town Christmas, December 6-8: This holiday event starts with a tree lighting and variety show on Friday evening. Saturday highlights include a 5k, Alpaca Farm tours, Parade of Lights at 6 PM. Tate-Evans Park has train rides, luminaries and light shows. Take home a Christmas Tree from a farm.
Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Package: (Nov 16 - Dec 8) Create a new tradition this holiday season in Banner Elk! This package includes a one night stay at your choice of accommodations, full breakfast, 15% off dining at Banner Elk Cafe and voucher for one 7 ft tall choose & cut Christmas tree at Elk River Evergreens. Rates: $139-150. Click here to get package details.
Arrive early to shop for or rent gear. Stay an extra day to enjoy some of other things to do in the area. Massage those sore muscles at a spa or head to a brewery or winery to sample local vintages. Stop by Banner Elk Winery (60 Deer Run Lane) to sample their wines - open every day 12 Noon-6 PM.
Rest well in a cozy inn, boutique hotel or cabin rental. Pic: Perry House B&B
Your first stop should be the Visitor Center at the Chamber of Commerce (100 Main Street). Then explore the galleries and shops in the village center. Nearby attractions like Grandfather Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway are often open in the winter (weather permitting).
If you come in later November or December, take home a Christmas tree from a local farm.
Don't miss the nearby original location of Mast General Store in Valle Crucis. Read more.
Go to the Banner Elk Ski Town Web site for more winter fun.
Go to our Banner Elk Guide for things to do year round.
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