Discover where wild horses roam, lighthouses glow and the holidays slow down — all through the eyes of Northern OBX Marketing Director Alex Perry.

North Carolina’s largest winter resort, Sugar Mountain Resort brings fun variety to 125 acres of multiple slopes and extensive off-the-slopes activities. Known for its status as the only ski area in the state with a double black diamond run, it’s a go-to destination for advanced skiers, but there's plenty here for all levels. The sophisticated lift system and recent expansion of the Northridge slope offer more space and brighter night skiing runs, while the resort’s RFID ticketing streamlines access to the slopes, the tubing park and the ice skating rink. 

Just west of Cashiers, Ski Sapphire Valley is part of a 5,700-acre, four-season resort designed with families and first-timers in mind. The ski area includes a 1,600-foot main run with a 200-foot vertical drop, a learning slope for new skiers, and a multiple-lane tube park — all served by a modern quad lift. On-the-mountain instruction is a highlight here, with professional instructors prioritizing beginner experiences and helping visitors build confidence from day one. Skiers and riders can take breaks at the base lodge park and fire pit, set beside the scenic Horsepasture River.

Just 30 miles north of Asheville, Hatley Pointe reimagines the beloved Wolf Ridge Ski Resort into a boutique winter destination at the base of Big Bald Mountain in Pisgah National Forest. Whether you’re gliding down fresh powder or warming up fireside, this elevated mountain experience blends adventure with comfort. The resort features a quad lift, two surface lifts and a tow rope to service its slopes, with private and group lessons available through the Snow Sports School.

Located near the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Ski Area has been welcoming skiers and snowboarders since 1961 as North Carolina’s first ski area. Thanks to an advanced snowmaking system, Cataloochee is known for having one of the longest ski seasons in the region. The mountain offers 18 slopes across 50 skiable acres, eight beginner, seven intermediate and three advanced to expert.

Adventure changes with the weather on Sugar Mountain in NC’s High Country, but the magic sticks around. Come for the slopes, wildflower hikes, chairlift rides and flavor-packed pit stops.

North Carolina’s oldest travel attraction has been pulling people to the edge of the High Country since 1933. Fun fact: The Blowing Rock got its name because strong winds rush upward due to the gorge's shape — strong enough to lift light objects back into the air.

Appalachian Ski Mtn. in Blowing Rock has been a go-to for winter fun in the High Country since 1962. With twelve slopes ranging from beginner-friendly to black diamond, plus two terrain parks and night skiing, the mountain offers something for every skill level. Lifts include two quad chairs, a double chair, two conveyor lifts and a handle-pull – all designed to keep lines moving and riders shredding. 

The marketing manager has spent decades exploring the High Country — now he’s sharing the ski runs, trails and small-town spots that keep his family happy all winter long.

Haywood County — home to the mountain towns of Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Lake Junaluska, Canton and Clyde — in NC's Great Smoky Mountains offers an unforgettable blend of outdoor adventures, unique experiences and cozy accommodations for families looking to create lasting memories. From scenic hikes and lake activities to quirky museums and fun-filled attractions, this itinerary is packed with opportunities for every member of the family to enjoy the best of the Western NC mountains.