Let’s Go Skiing, Ya’ll: Hit the Slopes in the South
Skiing in the Southeast? No, that can’t be possible! After all, the South is better know for humidity and beaches, not ski-able slopes.
Alabama
Cloudmont Ski and Golf Resort: This winter tell everyone you have practice your skiing techniques at the southernmost ski resort. Situated off of Lookout Mountain Parkway, in Mentone (Dekalb County), Cloudmont features two 1,000 ft. beginner-to-intermediate slopes. Instructors are also available for first time skiers.
Tennessee
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort: Located in the mountains of Tennessee and resort town of Gatlinburg, Ober has seven tree lined trails, with one open trail. Two of the runs are for beginners. Daily snow skiing classes are offered through Smoky Snow Sport Ski. The largest aerial tramway in American departs daily from downtown Gatlinburg, offering a scenic ride to the Ski Resort.
The more “north” you go in the South, the better the ski resort options. North Carolina has eight to choose from and regardless of your skill, you are sure to find one (or more) to enjoy.Yes, while the snow is somewhat machine-made, it’s still fun. Here’s a quick sample of what the state has to offer:
Cataloochee Ski Area: Situated in the Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina, Cataloochee offers terrain for all skiing levels. For beginners, there are special slopes with chairlifts. A variety of classes are available. Check out their web site for information on the ‘Kids Ski for Free’ program. Ski season, late November to early March.
Ski Beech Mountain Resort: Located in the mountains of west North Carolina, Ski Beech is the highest ski resort in eastern North American at 5, 506 feet above sea level, as well as the oldest ski area in the South. One-hundred percent snow making capabilities, there are fifteen slopes for all levels. Other activities include outdoor ice skating and snow tubing.
Virginia
Virginia is home to four ski resorts, all offering something a little different for skiers. Mother Nature gets some help with snow machines. Take a closer look at two resorts:
Bryce Resort: Situated in the Shenandoah Valley in the western part of Virginia (not to be confused with West Virginia), Bryce Resort has eight slopes, perfect for the beginner, intermediate and advance. Don’t worry if you haven’t skied before, because the resort has instructors for both children and adults. There’s also snowboarding and snow tubing opportunities as well.
Wintergreen Resort: A short distance from the Blue Ridge Parkway is Wintergreen Resort. Here you will find 25 slopes and trails suitable for all levels. 14 of those 25 are lit for night skiing. The resort provides a ski school for those needing to learn or brush up on their skills. If you like to go snowtubing, there is “The Plunge”, a 900-foot, 10 lane hill and the slower paced “The Slide”.
From downhill skiing to snowboarding to cross-country skiing - you will find it at the one of the five ski resorts in West Virginia. Just like in Virginia, snow assistance is given with the machines. Here is some additional information on two resorts:
Snowshoe Mountain: Ever wanted to snowshoe? If so, you can do that and a whole lot more at Snowshoe Mountain. Of course, there is skiing - even cross-country skiing. Ski school is available. There is snowtubing also. How about a tour? Why not see the area from a different perspective, such as on a snowmobile or snowcat tour?
Timberline Resort: Perhaps one of the best-kept (or may be now - best-known) secret in West Virginia is Timberline Resort. Located in the small town of Davis (the highest town in the state), Timberline provides a good mix for all levels with its 37 slopes and trails, including the Salamander, the South’s longest ski trail. Lessons area available through the onsite ski school.
Maryland
Wisp Resort: With 32 slopes and trails, many lit for night skiing, Wisp Resort is pretty close to everything a skier would want in a resort. Slopes are geared more toward beginners and advanced skiers, with a still a good bit for experts. In addition, the resort offers snowtubing (nine lanes), snow snowing and Nordic skiing (with instructor), and an exhilarating mountain coaster.
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POSTED IN: Snow Skiing, Southern Byways, Things to See in Alabama, Things to See in Maryland, Things to See in North Carolina, Things to See in Tennessee, Things to See in Virginia, Things to See in West Virginia, Vacation
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