Cataloochee Ski Area, located high in the mountains of Western North Carolina, offers "Great Skiing in the Great Smokies!" As one of the first areas in the region to open each season, Cataloochee is committed to providing an excellent skiing and snowboarding experience through its advanced snowmaking system, which covers 100% of its 18 slopes and trails, including the Cat Cage Terrain Park. With 3 aerial lifts, 2 moving carpet lifts, and over 4,000 sets of snowsports equipment, Cataloochee caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Reviewers praise the friendly and helpful staff, who ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors. The resort is described as a "local mountain" that welcomes all, from beginners to seasoned snowboarders. While the slopes may not be as challenging as those found out West, Cataloochee offers a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, especially outside of major holidays when the lifts and slopes are less crowded. Despite some minor criticisms, such as the cafeteria needing a revamp and some slopes being too fast for beginners, overall, Cataloochee Ski Area is a well-run and enjoyable destination for a winter getaway in the beautiful North Carolina mountains.
We get season passes every year. Staff are awesome. Get out and have some fun
March 2026
The place is nice. A little outdated and not a lot of parking offered to the public. The building is outdated specially the restaurant. But otherwise the kid area is very nice.
March 2026
It is well run and the people are friendly. Lift lines are usually short but I always go on a week day. The dining room is large. I like the chili, chicken soup, and hamburgers. They also have pizza slices and chicken fingers. The slopes can be icy but that is due to the cold nights and warm days.
