The Best Blue Ridge Mountains Winter Activities 

The Carolina mountains are gorgeous all year round, but there’s something about the snow-dusted peaks during the winter months that makes them all the more enchanting. People tend to flock to the mountains during this time of year, not just for the soothing winter climate, but also for the convenient access to an abundance of Blue Ridge Mountains winter activities. The blue-toned rolling peaks create the perfect environment for a cozy –– or adventurous –– mountain getaway spent with loved ones.

For a list of the best ways to enjoy the region this winter, continue reading.

1. Go Skiing & Snowboarding

In the Blue Ridge Mountains, skiing and snowboarding are undoubtedly one of the most well-liked winter activities. Several ski resorts in the region attract skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. 

North Carolina has the most opportunities for skiing out of all the areas along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Spread throughout the western part of the state, and with a plethora of resorts to choose from, you’ll have many excellent options. Let’s take a look at just a few!

• Sugar Mountain Resort — Known as the largest ski slope in North Carolina, Sugar Mountain offers snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, and so much more!
• Beech Mountain Resort — Located in the highest town east of the Rockies, Beech Mountain provides scenic lift rides, skiing lessons, and seasonal events.

• Appalachian Ski Mountain — Adventure awaits you at the Appalachian Ski Mountain! Skiers and snowboarders of all levels can venture on the many slopes and terrain parks.
• Cataloochee Ski Resort — With eighteen slopes, the Cataloochee Ski Resort provides many opportunities to soar down the 5,400-foot tall mountain. 
• Wolf Ridge Ski Resort — Just a half-hour drive from Asheville, the Wolf Ridge Ski Resort offers year-round opportunities to participate in snowy activities. 

2. Explore Waterfalls & Hiking

The hiking season in the Blue Ridge Mountains never ends, and the breathtaking sights never cease to amaze onlookers. During the winter, hiking trails are less crowded, so you can experience the serenity of the natural splendor that you wouldn’t have during the crowded summer months. As you hike along the many paths, you may even stumble upon a frozen waterfall! Waterfalls sometimes partially or completely crystallize in the cold conditions of the mountains, creating extraordinarily captivating and unique scenery. 

Related: 10 Best Viewpoints in the Blue Ridge Mountains

3. Take a Visit to a Luxury Spa 

There are many relaxing and elegant spas in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With the pure mountain air, hot natural springs, and variety of herbal remedies, you are sure to have a sense of rejuvenation and enhancement of overall wellness. While there, you can appreciate the winter scenery but enjoy the soothing warmth of being indoors.

Additionally, taking a trip to the spa has many proven health benefits. During the winter months, we’re more likely to become under the weather, and a trip to a luxury mountain spa is the perfect medicine! Spas can help to boost your immune system and have a positive impact on your physical and mental wellness. And after the busyness and stress of the holidays, you deserve to truly unwind!

Suggested: An Inside Look: The Cliffs’ Luxury Wellness Centers

4. Warm Up with a Cozy Drink 

The pace of life slows down during the winter and everything becomes more tranquil. After you’ve taken a peaceful visit to one of the many spas on the Blue Ridge, head to a local winery or brewery to continue your trip to relaxation with an inviting beverage with friends and family. 

One option near Asheville is the Biltmore Winery. Located just a short drive from The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, you can enjoy free wine tastings as you sample the delicacy of reds, whites, and sparkling wines. Even closer is the Bold Rock Mills River Cidery & Tap Room where you may sip on homemade apple ciders made fresh from locally sourced apples in the surrounding area. There’s nothing quite like cozy cider or spiced wine, to warm you up during the winter. 

5. Take a Scenic Drive

Some of the most mesmerizing and picturesque drives in the world may be found along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stretching for 469 miles, many roads throughout the mountain range lead you through lovely lush forests, over rivers and creeks, alongside majestic waterfalls to astonishingly spectacular high-elevation panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Below are a few noteworthy places that provide you with a peek into the Blue Ridge’s natural beauty:  

• Rough Ridge Overlook and Tanawha Trail
• Linn Cove Viaduct
• North Cove Valley
• Rockfish Gap
• Skyline Drive
• Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway

Along the winding roads, you may just stumble upon the gates of one of our communities at The Cliffs. 

Live A Luxury Mountain Lifestyle at The Cliffs 

These Blue Ridge Mountains winter activities are just a glimpse into the luxury lifestyle The Cliffs affords. From award-winning golf courses and clubhouses to private hiking trails, you’ll be enchanted by The Cliffs’ mountain atmosphere and countless amenities available to our members. The Cliffs consists of seven private luxury communities, offering a wide range of outdoor activities in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina. 

If you are considering making The Cliffs your forever home, we invite you to browse our extensive selection of homes and homesites and start planning your new life in the Carolina mountains. Simply click the button below and a member of our team will be delighted to help you find your dream mountain home at The Cliffs.