Appalachian Ski Mountain
Approximately 6 miles | About a 10–15 minute drive from 1850 Hotel
A local favorite, Appalachian Ski Mountain features twelve well-maintained trails primarily suited for beginner and intermediate skiers and riders. With a manageable 365-foot vertical drop, App Ski is approachable and fun for all experience levels.
One of its standout features is extended night skiing, with slopes open until 10 p.m. on weeknights and as late as midnight on weekends — perfect for fitting in a few extra runs after dinner.
Lessons:
Private and group lessons are available for both skiing and snowboarding.
Tickets and rentals must be reserved online in advance.
Other Activities at Appalachian
Ice Skating
Reservations are required. Sessions run from 12–2 p.m., 3–5 p.m., and 7–9 p.m. Appalachian also hosts Moonlight Skating on New Year’s Eve from 10 p.m.–12 a.m. Private skating lessons are available for $40 per lesson.
Sugar Mountain Resort
Approximately 14 miles | About a 30-minute drive from 1850 Hotel
As the largest ski area in the region, Sugar Mountain offers an impressive mix of beginner-friendly runs and challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders. With eight lifts — including high-speed and six-passenger options — guests can reach the summit’s 1,200-foot vertical in just over two minutes.
Sugar Mountain is especially popular among experienced riders looking for longer runs and a wider trail selection.
Lessons:
Private and group lessons are available for all ages.
Lift and slope tickets are first come, first served and must be purchased in person at the main ticket windows.
Other Activities at Sugar Mountain
Tubing
Sugar Mountain is home to Hawksnest Snow Tubing, the largest tubing park in the Southeast. With up to 30 lanes ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet long across four park areas, it’s a must-visit for families and groups. Tubing tickets must be purchased on-site.
Ice Skating
A 10,000-square-foot refrigerated outdoor rink is located near Parking Lot D and the Tubing Park. Tickets are first come, first served and go on sale one hour prior to each session. Private skating sessions are available by appointment.
Snowshoeing
Guided snowshoe tours offer a peaceful way to explore the winter landscape. Tours last one hour and include snowshoe rentals. Offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 3 p.m., and Saturdays at 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Events
Sugar Mountain hosts seasonal events throughout the winter — be sure to check their event calendar during your stay.
Beech Mountain Resort
Approximately 28 miles | About a 45-minute drive from 1850 Hotel
Beech Mountain is the highest ski resort in North Carolina — and the entire Eastern United States — offering a unique alpine experience. With eight lifts and 17 trails, Beech is well-known for its varied terrain and lively atmosphere.
For freestyle enthusiasts, The Park at Beech Mountain delivers a top-tier terrain park with features that are frequently refreshed to keep things exciting for riders of all levels.
Lessons:
Group and private lessons are available.
Other Activities at Beech Mountain
Tubing
Tubing tickets can be booked online, with weekday sessions priced at $40 per person and weekends at $48. Each session lasts 90 minutes. Evening Cosmic Snow Tubing sessions feature music and lights for a fun nighttime experience.
Events
Beech Mountain hosts events year-round — check their events page for the latest happenings.
Don’t Forget
Black Tie Ski Rentals is back this season! Guests of 1850 Hotel can enjoy premium ski rentals without the hassle of resort lines. Black Tie offers professional fittings in a designated on-site ski fitting area at the hotel, along with delivery and pickup — making ski days seamless from start to finish.
Please note: all winter activities are weather dependent. We recommend checking current conditions and resort policies before purchasing tickets or rentals.
