Sugar Mountain North Carolina Travel Guide | Things to Do, Places to Eat, & Where to Stay

Sugar Mountain North Carolina

The sprawling state of North Carolina is replete with fantastic lakes, notable hiking trails, popular ski resorts, and spectacular villas. One of the must-visit spots of NC is Sugar Mountain, a village in the bosom of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sugar Mountain is a small, charming village, with only a few hundred people living within a 2.4-square mile area. Sugar Mountain Resort is the other must-see spot and one of North Carolina’s larger ski areas, perched at ~5,300 ft with about 125 skiable acres, ~21 runs and a ~1,200-ft vertical drop. 

You cannot underestimate this place as a tourist attraction. Thousands of visitors go to this famed village for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, dining, and shopping activities each year. If you are looking for fun and Nature-filled vacation, do not delay and visit Sugar Mountain. Consult this list of activities if you want something enjoyable to fill your day in Sugar Mountain, North Carolina. 

Things To Do in and around Sugar Mountain, North Carolina

1. Sugar Mountain Resort (sking, snowboarding, and more.)

Sugar Mountain Resort is the centerpiece of winter recreation in the High Country.

• 21 ski and snowboard trails ranging from beginner greens to challenging blues and blacks.
• 125+ skiable acres - the largest in North Carolina.
• 1,200 ft vertical drop, top elevation over 5,000 ft.
• Night skiing on select evenings.
• Professional Ski & Snowboard School, ideal for first-timers or families.
• Gear rentals on-site (skis, boards, helmets, jackets, etc.).

2. Snow Tubing Park

A family favorite with multiple lanes, a magic carpet conveyor lift, and sessions throughout the day. Great for kids or non-skiers looking for winter fun.

3. Ice Skating Rink

Outdoor 10,000 sq ft refrigerated rink with skate rentals. Located directly in the village with mountain views.

4. Snowshoeing Tours

Guided snowshoe hikes through quiet wooded trails, perfect for photography and peaceful winter exploration.

5. Scenic Chairlift Rides

During warm seasons (especially summer and fall), Sugar Mountain runs scenic lift rides to the summit. Sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ideal for photography, picnics, and leaf-peeping in fall

6. Mountain Biking at Sugar Mountain Resort

Sugar Mountain transforms its slopes into downhill bike trails in summer. Lift-served downhill biking. Beginner to advanced trails. Equipment rentals and protective gear available

7. Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster (next to Sugar Mountain)

A fast, thrilling mountain coaster through trees - you control the speed.
Perfect for families, teens, and groups looking for adrenaline.

8. Adventure & Aerial Parks

The Wilderness Run Adventure Course offers:

• Rope bridges
• Ziplines
• Climbing challenges
• Suitable for adults and kids

9. Sugar Mountain Golf Course

A public 18-hole mountain course (par 64) with dramatic elevation changes and cool summer temperatures.
Excellent for casual or intermediate golfers.

10. Tennis & Pickleball

The Sugar Mountain sports center features:

• Har-Tru clay tennis courts
• Indoor & outdoor pickleball
• Courts available April–October

11. Grandfather Mountain State Park (10–15 minutes away)

Grandfather Mountain State Park is one of North Carolina’s most iconic natural attractions.

• Mile-High Swinging Bridge
• Wildlife habitats
• Top-tier hiking (Rough Ridge, Profile Trail, etc.
• Panoramic overlooks perfect for sunrise/sunset

12. Blue Ridge Parkway Drives

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a short drive from Sugar Mountain.

• Classic scenic overlooks
• Fall foliage among the best on the East Coast
• Great picnic and photography spots

13. Linville Falls & Gorge

One of NC’s most beautiful waterfalls.

• Multiple overlooks
• Easy to moderate hiking trails
• Family-friendly

14. Local Festivals & Events

Sugar Mountain, Banner Elk and the High Country host:

• Oktoberfest
• Summer concert series
• Woolly Worm Festival (Banner Elk)
• Wine tastings & craft fairs

Best Places to Eat in and around Sugar Mountain, North Carolina

1. Stonewalls Restaurant

Stoneswalls Restaurant is a classic American steakhouse in Banner Elk with prime rib, seafood, and upscale ambiance.

2. Sorrento’s Italian Bistro

Authentic Italian cuisine featuring hand-made pasta, pizzas, and a lively atmosphere.

3. The Painted Fish Café

Inventive American fare with local ingredients and rotating craft beers.

4. Bella’s Neighborhood Italian

Comfort-style Italian meals with generous portions and family-friendly prices.

5. River Dog Coffee House

Breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and artisan coffee—perfect for early mountain mornings.

6. Kettell Beerworks

A laid-back craft brewery offering seasonal brews, flights, and small bites.

Where to Stay in and around Sugar Mountain, North Carolina 

1. Sugar Ski & Country Club (Ski-in/Ski-out)

Condos perched on the slopes with direct access to lifts, indoor pool, hot tub, and mountain views.

2. SugarTop Resort

Iconic hilltop high-rise offering 360-degree mountain views, an indoor pool, and condo-style lodging.

3. Lodges & Inns in Banner Elk (5–10 minutes away)

• The Lodge at Banner Elk – Boutique mountain lodging
• Best Western Mountain Lodge – Budget-friendly and central
• Little Main Street Inn – Charming and family-run

4. Banner Elk Winery & Villa (Luxury)

Stay in a vineyard setting with upscale accommodations and on-site wine tasting.

5. Vacation Rentals & Cabins

A wide range of chalets, cabins, and luxury mountain homes—ideal for families and groups seeking fireplaces, hot tubs, and scenic decks.

Vacation Rental Accommodations

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Map of Sugar Mountain North Carolina

 

Conclusion

Sugar Mountain is a place to visit when you are vacationing in the Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina. Those who love to play winter sports would be in awe of the ski resort and ica skating rink here. You can also enjoy snow tubing adventures and snowshoeing tours in Sugar Mountain. Moreover, you can play golf and tennis in one of the best sports facilities in NC.

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