Cataloochee Ski Area Resort Guide - Real Reviews From Real Skiers
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220,849 resort ratings from real skiers
Expert Analysis & Reviews

The Skiers' Guide to Cataloochee Ski Area

Top Rated for
5 (2 Ratings)
Value for Money
5 (2 Ratings)
Family Friendliness
5 (1 Ratings)
Experts
4.5 (2 Ratings)
Groomed Runs
4.5 (2 Ratings)
Lift Efficiency
4.5 (2 Ratings)
Ski School Quality
Overall Rating
4
From 2 Reviews
18
Total Runs
4660
Bottom Elevation
5400
Top Elevation
50
Skiable Terrain
Ski ResortsUSANorth CarolinaCataloochee Ski Area

Cataloochee Ski Area in North Carolina is known for its early season opening, often one of the first in the East. The resort offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to more challenging terrain for experienced skiers. Cataloochee's snowmaking capabilities are impressive, providing good skiing conditions throughout the season. The resort has a friendly, down-to-earth atmosphere, making it a favorite among local skiers. Cataloochee also offers night skiing, adding an extra dimension to the skiing experience. The on-site lodge is warm and inviting, with food and beverage services. Cataloochee Ski Area's location in the Great Smoky Mountains adds to its scenic charm, making it a picturesque skiing destination.

Recent Reviews

Beginner snowboarder here - came during a snowstorm and the runs were great, atmosphere was lively, and everyone was friendly.

Great place overall for an affordable, budget friendly spot.
Overall Rating
Family Friendliness
Off-Piste
Snow Parks
Eating Out
Après-Ski
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Tree Skiing
Mogul Fields
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Ski School Quality
Accommodation Options
Cataloochee Ski Area is hands-down one of the best family-friendly ski destinations around! Their customer service is absolutely amazing, with a team that goes above and beyond to ensure your experience is unforgettable. The rental program is so efficient that even during peak times, youre geared up and ready to hit the slopes in no time. And lets talk about their ski schoolwhether youre a first-timer or brushing up on your skills, their instructors are top-notch and make learning so much fun.

While Cataloochee doesnt have the longest runs or the most vertical drop, they more than make up for it with short lift lines and the charm of Maggie Valley, which has to be the coolest ski town out there. This is a ski area that feels like homewarm, welcoming, and perfect for families.

Though they rely heavily on man-made snow and dont get a ton of natural snowfall, their snowmaking team works magic to keep the slopes in excellent shape. With other resorts nearby, we could easily choose a different home mountain, but we dont. Cataloochee has won our hearts, and it remains one of our absolute favorite places to go skiing. Highly recommend!
Overall Rating
Family Friendliness
Off-Piste
Snow Parks
Eating Out
Après-Ski
Value for Money
Groomed Runs
Tree Skiing
Mogul Fields
Powder Zones
Quiet Slopes
Lift Efficiency
Ski School Quality
Accommodation Options

Cataloochee Ski Area Resort Stats

Ski Terrain
8Beginner Runs
7Intermediate Runs
3Expert Runs
1 milesLongest Run
50 acresSkiable Terrain
50 hectaresSnow making
50 acresNight Skiing
Elevation
5400 feetTop
4660 feetBottom
740 feetVertical Drop
Lifts
2Chairlifts
Lift Pass Costs
$790Season pass
$521 day
Weather
24 inchesAverage annual snowfall

Cataloochee Ski Area Travel Information

Airports
50KMs 60min driveAsheville Regional (AVL)
120KMs 150min driveMcGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
Train Stations
55KMs 60min driveAsheville Station (Asheville, NC)