Beech Mountain Resort, Beech Mountain

The summit of Beech Mountain stands at 5,506 feet—more than a mile high—making the ski slopes at Beech Mountain Resort (above) not only the highest in the state, but the highest in the eastern U.S.

This elevation means great views, spectacular sunsets and consistently snowy slopes. Natural snow and snow machines keep Beech Mountain’s 17 trails ready for skiers and snowboarders at all levels—runs include beginner-friendly slopes and challenging Black Diamonds—and ensure great conditions on the resort’s three freestyle areas. Add in the tubing area, the 5,506’ bar and restaurant and Beech Mountain Brewing Company in the ski village, and you have plenty of reasons to get outside and play this winter. 

Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, Sugar Mountain

This resort (above) stands as the state’s largest ski area with 125 skiable acres across 20 slopes. With a summit standing at 5,300 feet, it’s more than a mile high. You can downhill ski, get your adrenaline pumping in the terrain park, go tubing, enjoy a bit of ice skating or go snowshoeing here. A network of lifts and tow bars crisscross the park, making access to any of the slopes—from the terrain park to the Double Black Diamond run to Easy Street, the perfect slope for beginners—a (wintry) breeze. 

Appalachian Ski Mountain, Blowing Rock

Nine downhill slopes suited for beginners and experienced skiers alike make Appalachian Ski Mountain (above) a choice destination for anyone. But it’s the top spot to learn to ski, thanks to their lauded French Swiss Ski College. The Ski College has helped more than 1,000,000 guests take to the slopes since the ski school opened in 1968. In addition to the nine downhill ski slopes—three each for learners, intermediate and experienced skiers—there are four freestyle terrain areas and special events, like Midnight Blast Weekends, a season-long, late-night skiing (and snowboarding) bonanza that sees the slopes open until midnight. It’s the only ski experience of its type in the state!