Cross-country Skiing Trails in Western NC

Winter in Western North Carolina brings scenic mountain landscapes blanketed in snow, making it an ideal setting for cross-country skiing. While the region is better known for its hiking and downhill skiing, several trails transform into excellent Nordic skiing routes when conditions allow. The Blue Ridge Parkway, state parks, and high-elevation areas near Asheville offer superb opportunities for skiers seeking winter adventure.

Adventure Guide to Cross-country Skiing Trails in Western NC

Mount Mitchell State Park

• What makes it special: At 6,684 feet, Mount Mitchell is the highest peak east of the Mississippi, meaning it often receives more snow than lower elevations. The park’s trails, including portions of the Old Mitchell Trail, become excellent for backcountry skiing when snowfall is sufficient.
• Key features:
  • Challenging terrain with rolling hills.
  • Stunning long-range views on clear days.
  • Remote, making it ideal for experienced skiers.
• Local Insights: The higher elevation means this area holds snow longer than many lower elevations in WNC. However, weather can change quickly, so check forecasts before heading out.

Roan Mountain Carver’s Gap

• What makes it special: Roan Mountain (bordering NC and TN) is one of the region’s most consistent areas for natural snowfall. Carver’s Gap offers open balds that, when covered in snow, create an ideal Nordic skiing experience.
• Key features:
  • Wide-open spaces great for gliding.
  • Panoramic views of the Unaka Range.
  • Fewer crowds compared to other winter destinations.
• Local Insights: The balds can become icy due to strong winds, so using metal-edged skis for better grip is recommended.

Elk Knob State Park

• What makes it special: One of North Carolina’s newer state parks, Elk Knob offers well-maintained trails that become excellent cross-country skiing routes in winter.
• Key features:
  • Elk Knob Summit Trail gains 1,000 feet in elevation, rewarding skiers with stunning vistas.
  • Less foot traffic compared to popular ski areas.
• Local Insights: The north-facing slopes allow for better snow retention, making it one of the more reliable locations after snowfall.

Visitor Tips

• Best Times: Snowfall is most reliable from December to February, especially after a major winter storm. Always check real-time trail conditions before heading out.
• What to Bring:
  • Cross-country skis (preferably with metal edges).
  • Layered clothing for temperature regulation.
  • Navigation tools (some trails are unmarked in winter).
• Driving Directions:
  • Mount Mitchell: A 50-minute drive from Asheville via the Blue Ridge Parkway and NC-128 (closed during heavy snow).
  • Roan Mountain: About 1.5 hours from Asheville via I-26 W and US-19E.
  • Elk Knob: A 2-hour drive from Asheville via US-19 N and NC-194.