Skiing Beech Mountain Resort

November 10, 2016 Beech Mountain

As the highest ski area in the eastern U.S., Beech Mountain Resort (Ski Beech) offers 15 slopes on 98 acres of skiable area. There are plenty of runs for every skill level, and with a vertical drop of 830 feet and more than 84 inches of annual snowfall, Beech Mountain Resort stands out as the premier ski resort in the South.

The resort’s snowmaking capabilities, added to the abundant natural snowfall, have earned it the title Snow Capital of the South, with a reputation as the best snow skiing in North Carolina.

Snowboarding is also a favorite activity, and the High-Speed Quad Lift — the region’s most efficient chairlift — keeps lift lines short and ski days efficient.

Lessons: Beech Mountain Resort (Ski Beech) offers individual and group snow skiing and snowboarding lessons for beginners, even as young as 3 years old.

Packages: Check out the ski packages and ski deals at Beech Mountain Resort and start planning your next winter adventure.

Other activities: Even if you’re not into downhill excitement, there’s still plenty to do and enjoy. The Alpine Village at Beech Mountain Resort features gift shops, eateries, a craft brewery and a 7,000-square-foot ice skating rink, open throughout the winter season. There is also a free sledding hill next to Beech Mountain Town Hall for kids 12 years and under. The sledding hill is open daily in winter, weather permitting.

Retro 80s Ski Weekend: One of the most popular weekends each year is the Totally 80’s Retro Ski Weekend at Beech Mountain. Each February, folks dig out their retro ski garb and hit the slopes for a trip back in time. There are live 80s bands, an apparel contest, 80’s-themed specials and other retro happenings. For more details, click here.

Summit Cam: Grab a live look at the slopes via the resort’s summit cam.

For more information on snow skiing in North Carolina, visit BeechMountainResort.com . Don’t forget to visit our mountain lodging page to view our wide selection of cabins, cottages, condos, private homes and more!

5506′ Skybar

At the top of Beech Mountain Resort is a one-of-a-kind amenity where guests are invited to take a break from skiing and snowboarding. Constructed in 2013, Beech Mountain Resort added a facility named 5506′, paying tribute to the elevation that gives us the title of the highest ski area in eastern America. 5506′ is a structure like no other that consists of: a 2800 ft.² deck with Adirondack chairs and picnic tables; a glass roundhouse complete with bar, barstools, and tables; a snack bar; as well as, heated restrooms.

After riding the chairlift up to the summit, skiers and snowboarders are welcome to kick off their skis and snowboards and kick back at 5506′. The breathtaking views are unparalleled with a beautiful panorama of the Blue Ridge Mountains as they span North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. The options for food and drinks are plentiful and mouth-watering. You are guaranteed to call this spot a favorite at Beech Mountain!

The snack bar at 5506′ offers chicken salad sandwiches, hot dogs, snacks, a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and more! Inside of the cozy, glass roundhouse, a full-service bar provides a wide selection of well and top-shelf liquors, mixed drinks, wine, and, of course, a selection of our very own Beech Mountain Brewing Company beers are on tap. With such an array of choices, it is no wonder why 5506′ has become the go-to spot for skiers and snowboarders to take a break.

When the weather is just right, the roof on the glass roundhouse retracts to allow guests an event like no other. When retracted, the beautiful Carolina blue skies seem touchable and the warm rays of the sun envelop the soul. Not often can a more delightful experience be had than what is found when visiting 5506′.

*5506′ is only accessible to skiers and snowboarders during the winter season. Guests visiting 5506′ must have a valid lift ticket, ride the chairlift up, and then guests are required to ski/snowboard down the mountain (there is no ride available for going down the chairlift). Please drink responsibly.

In the summer, 5506′ is equally popular with mountain bikers, hikers, disc golfers, and visitors to eastern America’s highest town. All of the same amenities are offered and the option to take a scenic lift ride up and down the mountain allows for everyone to enjoy the highly popular spot. Be sure to snap a few panoramic photos of the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Beech Mountain Brewing Co.

Breathtaking views, unique landscapes, and cool temperatures all make up Beech Mountain.

Since opening in 2013, we continue to embrace our mountain community by dedicating ourselves to the best beer, the best food and the best hospitality we can.

As one of the only US breweries owned and operated by a ski area, we are dedicated to action sports enthusiast. Our brewery is nestled in the village of Beech Mountain Resort, offering, skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, ice skating, mountain biking and disc golf. Our brewery provides the perfect atmosphere to relax after a long day or skiing, biking or hiking. The Beech Mountain Brewing Co. is accessible for all patrons and you do not have to participate in resort activities to visit.

Meet The Brewer
Billy Smith is our head brewer. Smith is a New York native and a graduate of Lees-McRae College. His dedication and creativity have proved successful with a third place medal for the Beech Blond Ale at the 2015 North Carolina State Fair.