As the chill of February sweeps down the East Coast, the pleasures of winter thrill powder hounds anxious to test their skills on steep snow-covered slopes.
At drivable distances from the Upstate, mountain resorts from Virginia to Tennessee welcome an avalanche of skiers from December through March. Whether you’re planning to spend your time on the bunny hills or the black slopes, these regional ski resorts have the inside edge, with everything you need from lessons and equipment to cozy lounges for après-ski libations.
Ski Resorts
Beech Mountain Resort, Beech Mountain, NC
Perched at a peak elevation of 5,506 feet near the town of Banner Elk, Beech Mountain Resort ranks as the highest ski area (but not the highest mountain) east of the Rockies. On the slopes, 95 skiable acres encompass 8 lifts and 17 ski trails—some of which accommodate night skiing with upgraded LED lighting. A new park-like plaza in the village at the base of the slopes provides space for socializing, complete with an outdoor pavilion dotted with fire pits.
Along with several restaurants, the resort includes the Beech Mountain Brewing Company, featuring beer made on-site and a casual menu of burgers and sandwiches. Atop the mountain, 5506’ skybar (open winter and summer) serves up food, cocktails, and spectacular views in a glassed-in roundhouse.
1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy, Beech Mountain, NC. (828) 387-2011, beechmountainresort.com
Massanutten Resort, Massanutten, VA
Massanutten, set on 6,000 lofty acres (2,922 feet elevation) in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, lays claim to having the longest vertical drop—1,100 feet—of any ski area in Virginia. Currently celebrating its 50th anniversary, the resort envelops 70 skiable acres cut by 14 ski runs—including a dedicated learner’s area—and serviced by 7 lifts. The resort’s full-service spa is the place to go to soothe any muscle aches from all that skiing and snowboarding. Bring your adventurous friends along, even if they don’t ski; Massanutten also offers facilities for hiking, ice skating, mountain biking, and ziplining. When you tire of the cold, warm up at the indoor section of Massanutten Water Park, where the air and water temperature both hover around 82 degrees.
1822 Resort Dr, Massanutten, VA. (540) 289-9441, massresort.com
Ober Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg, TN
On the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Ober Gatlinburg is the highest ski resort in Tennessee, towering to a summit of 3,300 feet.
To save visitors the precarious drive up Mount Harrison, the Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway ferries passengers from downtown Gatlinburg just over two miles to the ski area, which features 10 trails and 4 chairlifts (including two quad lifts), as well as areas for snowboarding and snow tubing. Shops at Ober on the mountain offer everything from beer mugs and children’s toys to ski apparel, while seven eateries cater to different palates.
Head to Seasons for hand-cut steaks and grilled entrées, plus a panorama of the Smoky Mountains. For après-ski refreshment, join revelers at the Loft Lounge for beer, wine, and fine spirits.
1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN. 865-436-5423, obergatlinburg.com
