North Carolina’s Ski Industry Welcomes the Winter Spotlight
This weekend, as the Winter Olympics capture the attention of audiences in Italy, North Carolina’s winter sports scene is getting a spotlight of its own. Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein are touring several ski resorts across the state, highlighting North Carolina’s status as the Winter Sports Capital of the South. Their itinerary includes visits to Appalachian Ski Mountain’s French-Swiss Ski College, Beech Mountain Ski Resort, and Sugar Mountain Ski Resort.
North Carolina’s ski industry, an essential part of the state’s economy, generates over $244 million and draws more than 780,000 visitors annually. Governor Stein emphasized the significance of this sector, stating, “Western North Carolina is open for business, and thousands of people are choosing our state as their vacation destination.” He encouraged tourists to experience the state’s stunning mountains, which offer year-round attractions.
Kimberley Jochl, a representative from the North Carolina Ski Area Association, noted, “North Carolina’s ski industry has never been so vibrant, and the time has never been better to head over to the mountains for a winter escape.” She highlighted the state’s ability to attract a significant number of first-time skiers, thanks to recent enhancements at the resorts.
Wit Tuttell, Executive Director of Visit NC, praised the state’s offerings, saying, “With the highest mountains, the biggest variety of activities and the best instruction for beginners, our ski areas have helped make North Carolina the winter sports capital of the South.” The diverse activities and continuous improvements at the resorts contribute to their growing appeal.
The return to normalcy post-Hurricane Helene has been crucial for local businesses. Brad Moretz, President of Appalachian Ski Mountain, expressed his satisfaction, stating, “We are pleased that Governor Stein is getting the word out that North Carolina Ski Resorts and our local supporting lodging and restaurant businesses are fully back on track.”
In addition to promoting tourism, Governor Stein celebrated North Carolina’s representation at the Winter Olympics, with athletes Eunice Lee, Mystique Ro, and Kayden Beasley competing in various events. The Carolina Hurricanes NHL team also has five players representing their countries in men’s ice hockey.
For over six decades, North Carolina has been a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, offering the highest-elevation skiing in the eastern United States and a plethora of outdoor activities. The state’s six ski resorts, located near Asheville and Boone, continue to be a magnet for both locals and visitors. Appalachian Ski Mountain’s French-Swiss Ski College alone has trained over a million people since its inception in 1962.
The snow sports industry in North Carolina doesn’t just thrive on direct spending at the resorts. It also generates more than $96 million in indirect economic value each year, supporting close to 2,000 jobs. With peaks soaring above 5,000 feet, the state offers unparalleled skiing experiences in the region.
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