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Banner Elk is the perfect hub for your High Country winter getaway! Banner Elk is positioned right between the two biggest ski areas in the state, so most winter visitors stay in Banner Elk for dining, lodging, breweries, and more. Nestled in the heart of the High Country, Banner Elk is surrounded by snowy peaks, festive small-town charm, and two of the region’s top ski destinations, Beech Mountain Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort. While the town of Banner Elk itself does not have its own ski slopes, it sits perfectly between both major ski areas, making it the ideal home base for winter adventures.
Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain are both within about a 10–15 minute drive of Banner Elk. Base in Banner Elk for dining and lodging variety and shuttle easily to both resorts. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Grandfather Mountain State Park are nearby for scenic winter drives and overlooks (weather permitting).
Sugar Mountain Resort
Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in North Carolina and offers the most vertical (1,200 ft) with a mix of beginner-to-expert terrain plus tubing and ice skating. Sugar runs extensive snowmaking to extend the season.
The largest ski area in North Carolina delivers a wide variety of terrain, snow tubing lanes, ice skating, snowshoe tours, and excellent snowmaking that keeps trails open all season long.
Beech Mountain Resort
Beech Mountain Resort sits at 5,500 ft, the highest town in Eastern U.S. and is family-focused with skiing, tubing, a lively winter events calendar, and night-skiing options.
The highest ski area in the Eastern United States offers sweeping views, terrain parks, multiple lifts, ice skating, snow tubing, and a lively alpine village with restaurants and après-ski activities.
Two close-but-different resorts as Sugar offers larger vertical and longer runs; Beech is higher-elevation, often colder/snowier, and especially family-friendly with tubing and events. Between each resort you get variety in terrain, nightlife, and family activities. Short drives from Banner Elk for more dining and lodging variety and shuttle between resorts in minutes.
Additional Winter Activities (beyond skiing/snowboarding)
Snow tubing
Both resorts operate tubing parks with multiple lanes and magic-carpet lifts, this is a great option for kids and non-skiers.
Ice skating
Sugar Mountain runs a refrigerated outdoor rink during the winter season; sessions and skate rentals vary by date.
Lessons & children's programs
Both resorts offer ski and snowboard schools, beginner zones with magic carpets, and childcare or youth programming during peak season.
Scenic drives & winter photography
Winter overlooks along the Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby Grandfather Mountain offer dramatic views and photography opportunities when conditions allow.
Local events
Banner Elk theatre shows, holiday parades, Beech Mountain winter music series and seasonal festivals add evening entertainment.
Where to Stay
In Banner Elk (best balance of dining & proximity)
Boutique inns, B&Bs, and downtown condos put you near restaurants, groceries and events — ideal for couples and small families.
On or near the mountains (best for slope access)
SugarTop Resort & Sugar Ski & Country Club on Sugar Mountain offer ski-in/ski-out condos, pools and hot tubs. Beech Mountain has slopeside condos and motels for quick lift access and a lively mountain-top atmosphere. Beech Mountain accommodations for quick lift access and a lively mountain-top feel
Vacation rentals & cabins
Cabins, chalets and multi-bedroom condos are abundant with many feature hot tubs and fireplaces. Book early for holiday weeks and peak winter weekends.
- Book Direct with a Vacation Rental Management Company to Save on Fees and Experience Expert Service!
