“Discover Winter Bliss: 5 Budget-Friendly Southern Ski Resorts to Visit This Season!”

There’s an appropriate time and place for exploring the country’s grand mountains to the West. On all other days, there are the enjoyable and accessible ski resorts located in the South.

However, North Carolina and Virginia ski resorts don’t only attract enthusiastic skiers; they also draw snowboarders, snowshoers, and admirers of the sport’s cherished tradition: aprés ski.

One more reason we appreciate skiing in these more laid-back areas? The cost-effectiveness. Certainly, the landscape may be somewhat restricted, yet there are numerous accommodations and dining establishments featuring live musical entertainment. In summary, don’t dismiss the South; it could very well be your next top ski holiday.

Beech Mountain, North Carolina

There’s an abundance of skiing terrain in North Carolina, but one of the most renowned and cherished spots is Beech Mountain, situated in the Northwestern corner of the state. The ski area at the heart of the town offers not just skiing but also snowboarding and tubing, with an area for sledding (which is free!) just outside the resort for the kids to enjoy.

The ski village receives nearly 60 inches of annual snowfall, transforming its 17 trails across 98 skiable acres into a breathtaking winter paradise each season. Enroll younger visitors (ages 3 to 14) in day camp so they can enhance their skiing or snowboarding abilities while parents have some fun.

Like any ski destination that holds its own, there’s a brewery; Beech Mountain Brewing Co. Taproom & Grill features live music on weekends alongside tasty pub dishes. A range of inns, lodges, and cabins can be reserved through the mountain’s official site. 

Sugar Mountain Resort, North Carolina

Another notable ski area in North Carolina, Sugar Mountain Resort boasts the largest skiable area in the state with 125 acres nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Snowboarders are warmly welcomed, and options like ice skating, tubing, and guided snowshoe tours are also available for winter fun. Beginners will easily find gentle, winding greens, while Sugar Mountain’s double black diamond trail (Whoopdeedoo) is destined to attract expert skiers.

Recharge—and warm up—after a day in the elements with a steak dinner at Stonewalls Restaurant, where you can enjoy live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Reserve a vacation home through the trusted Blue Ridge Mountain Rentals or Sugar Mountain Lodging. SugarTop condos generally offer stunning views along with access to an indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. 

Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia

This winter marks the 50th anniversary of Snowshoe Mountain, but even if you miss the celebrations, there’s still much to enjoy in this Allegheny Mountain town. With excellent lift access, 12 lifts provide guests with entry to 244 skiable acres. As part of the Ikon pass, a seasonal pass that offers access to various ski locations in the U.S. and beyond, Snowshoe is suitable for novices but even better for intermediate enthusiasts.

After a day spent on the slopes, there’s no finer spot than the Village, where traditional Appalachian cuisine and a lively aprés scene perfectly conclude an active day in the mountains. Savor a craft beer from West Virginia at The Junction Ale House, or opt for an upscale meal at 10 Prime. Regardless of your accommodation preferences—be it a cozy chalet or a contemporary condo—Snowshoe has options to meet your needs.

Wintergreen Ski Resort, Virginia

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and not far from Charlottesville, just about a three-hour journey from the D.C. area, Wintergreen stands out as a mountaintop resort. All amenities are situated on peaks and ridges, as opposed to at the base.

With 129 skiableacres, there’s an abundance of paths to keep skiers and snowboarders engaged. Crisp temperatures in this region of the state enable consistent snowmaking during the winter months.

Culinary choices at Wintergreen feature The Copper Mine for Southern dishes, Iron & Ale for steak and seafood, and The Edge for substantial sandwiches and craft beer. Depending on the size of your party, you can lease an entire house or a snug condo. A delightful pet-friendly alternative is Iris Inn, just a short distance from your next delicious burger at River Burger Bar.

Ober Mountain, Tennessee

Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and ice skating: You’ll discover it all this winter at Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg. This mountain is relatively small, with only 38 skiable acres, making it an excellent option for novices or families with young children who are trying skis for the first time.

For youngsters, there’s also The Snow Zone, a space to enjoy and play in the snow. For any last-minute cold-weather necessities or snow equipment and rentals, visit Ober Mountain Outfitters, and for non-essentials, don’t forget to drop into town at The Chocolate Monkey.

Although Gatlinburg offers a variety of hotels, Airbnb is also available for those preferring more than just a hotel room. A must-visit when hunger hits during your mountain day is the recently arrived Nashville sensation, Daddy’s Dogs. Off the slopes, Gatlinburg boasts many diverse eateries to satisfy any cravings you might have.