Winter Activities in Western North Carolina

Winter in Western North Carolina is typically mild, making it a great season to enjoy both outdoor adventures and mountain scenery. While lower elevations often remain snow-free, higher-altitude areas near Asheville and Maggie Valley offer reliable opportunities for snow-based recreation.

One of the region’s most popular winter destinations is Cataloochee Ski Area, located approximately 90 minutes east of Carolina Joy Vacation Rental. The ski season typically runs from early December through late March, depending on weather conditions. Snowmaking equipment helps maintain skiable conditions even during warmer winter periods.

Due to high seasonal demand—especially on weekends and holidays—visitors are encouraged to purchase lift tickets and passes in advance, ideally one to two weeks ahead, to secure availability and preferred time slots.

Not interested in skiing? Snow tubing is a fun and accessible winter activity that requires no experience or special equipment. Riders glide downhill on an inner tube, letting gravity do the work, with the thrill increasing alongside the height and steepness of the slope.

Tube World is located in Maggie Valley, NC. Sessions last one hour and forty-five minutes and occur every two hours. A 42′′ minimum height restriction applies.