Sugar Mountain Resort Opens for 2025–26 Winter Season as Snow Blankets North Carolina’s High Country
SUGAR MOUNTAIN, N.C. — North Carolina’s Sugar Mountain Resort is officially kicking off the 2025–26 winter season, with opening day set for Tuesday, November 11, following a weekend of fresh snow across the High Country.
The resort, located near Banner Elk, confirmed that trails and lifts will be operational for the season’s first skiers and snowboarders, offering some of the best early-November conditions the region has seen in recent years.
Fresh Snowfall Ushers in Opening Day
Recent cold temperatures and natural snowfall have combined to create ideal conditions for early-season skiing. A blanket of snow now covers the mountain, as seen in live resort cameras showing frosted slopes, snow-covered trees, and snowmaking equipment running at full capacity.
Resort officials said crews have been working through the weekend to finalize preparations and ensure trails are ready for visitors. “We’re thrilled to open the 2025–26 season earlier than usual and welcome families back to the slopes,” one resort spokesperson shared Monday.
A Boost for Local Tourism
The opening marks an exciting start for North Carolina’s ski season, which plays a vital role in local tourism. With Sugar Mountain now open, nearby towns such as Banner Elk, Boone, and Blowing Rock are expecting an early surge in visitors for skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and winter getaways.
Area businesses, including restaurants and mountain lodges, are also preparing for increased travel ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday — typically one of the busiest times for the region’s ski economy.
Ideal Early-Season Conditions
Meteorologists say a cold air mass over the Blue Ridge Mountains has created favorable snowmaking conditions, with overnight lows dipping into the 20s and wind chills in the teens. Forecasts show the chill will continue into midweek, allowing the resort to maintain snow coverage and expand open terrain.
By opening day, several runs on both the Sugar Slalom and Northridge areas are expected to be accessible, with more trails coming online as temperatures remain cold enough for sustained snowmaking.
Planning a Visit
Resort officials encourage visitors to purchase lift tickets and rentals in advance due to high demand. Tickets and season passes are available online through the Sugar Mountain Resort website, with discounts offered for weekday skiing during the opening week.
Safety measures and standard ski area guidelines remain in effect. Skiers and snowboarders are reminded to check trail conditions before heading out, wear helmets, and dress for the frigid temperatures expected throughout the week.
An Early Start to North Carolina’s Winter
Sugar Mountain’s early opening signals a strong start for North Carolina’s mountain resorts, which include Beech Mountain, Appalachian Ski Mountain, and Cataloochee Ski Area — all preparing to open in the coming weeks as cold weather continues to settle across the state.
With snow-covered slopes and holiday lights already visible across the High Country, locals say the early-season opening brings a welcome sense of excitement for winter recreation.
For weather updates, ski conditions, and seasonal travel news, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
