Boone’s Winter Playground: Ski, Tube, and Explore the Blue Ridge Mountains

GraystoneLodge / December 30, 2025 /Things to Do

There’s something magical about Boone, NC, when the air turns crisp and the snow starts to fall. The Blue Ridge Mountains come alive each winter with skiers carving down slopes, families laughing on snow tubes, and cozy fires crackling in mountain lodges. Boone transforms into a snow lover’s paradise—one where adventure, comfort, and charm meet.

If you’re planning a winter getaway, here’s how to make the most of your stay in Boone’s snowy playground.

Graystone Lodge is a 101-room boutique hotel located in Boone, NC, that captures the spirit of the High Country in a warm, welcoming ambiance of a mountain lodge with an enhanced modern design and upscale amenities. Book your stay or learn more about our rooms. Subscribe to our email list to “stay in the know” about local tips, events, and promotions: Join the list! Don’t miss our Winter Special: Stay 3 Nights and Save 20%. Valid December 19th, 2025 through March 20th, 2026. Book now and save.

Ski the Slopes of the High Country

When it comes to winter sports, Boone sits at the heart of North Carolina’s best ski country. Within minutes, you’ll find three top-rated ski resorts, each with its own unique character:

  • Appalachian Ski Mountain (10 minutes away): Known for its smooth groomed trails, friendly atmosphere, and family-oriented vibe, App Ski is perfect for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Their French Swiss Ski College has taught generations how to ski and snowboard.
  • Beech Mountain Resort (40 minutes away): The highest ski resort in the Eastern U.S. offers incredible views, a vibrant alpine village, live music, and an outdoor ice-skating rink.
  • Sugar Mountain Resort (35 minutes away): The largest of the three, Sugar offers the widest variety of runs, plus tubing lanes and a cozy lodge for hot cocoa breaks.

Each resort brings its own charm, but all promise powdery fun and stunning Blue Ridge views that make Boone a true winter destination.

Glide, Slide, and Laugh on the Tubing Hills

If skiing isn’t your thing, no problem—Boone has plenty of snow tubing adventures. Kids and adults alike will love zipping down the slopes at:

  • Hawksnest Snow Tubing in Seven Devils: One of the largest snow tubing parks on the East Coast with more than 30 lanes and breathtaking mountain scenery.
  • Sugar Mountain Tubing Park: Conveniently located near the ski slopes, this is a great option for families who want both skiing and tubing in one stop.
  • Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Park: A smaller, laid-back park with shorter lines and a family-friendly feel.

Tubing is simple, thrilling, and doesn’t require any gear—just warm clothes and a big smile.

Cozy Nights and Local Charm in Boone

After a full day in the snow, there’s nothing better than returning to a warm, comfortable lodge. Graystone Lodge in Boone offers just that—cozy mountain-inspired rooms, Beekman 1802 bath amenities, and a complimentary local breakfast featuring espresso drinks and fresh pastries. It’s the kind of place where you can kick off your boots, sip a local craft beer by the fire, and feel right at home.

Boone’s dining scene also shines in winter. Grab a hearty meal at The Gamekeeper, relax with comfort food at Vidalia, or swing by Lost Province Brewing Co. for wood-fired pizza and local brews. Every stop feels personal, like dining among friends.

Explore Boone Beyond the Slopes

Boone isn’t just about snow sports—it’s a mountain town full of character and winter charm. Bundle up and explore:

  • Downtown Boone: Stroll through local shops, find one-of-a-kind gifts, and warm up with a latte from Hatchet Coffee.
  • Blue Ridge Parkway Overlooks: Even in winter, the Parkway offers stunning views and peaceful trails, especially around Price Lake and Moses Cone Memorial Park.
  • Valle Crucis Community Park: Perfect for a quiet winter walk along the Watauga River, just minutes from town.

Pro Tip: Always check weather and parkway conditions before heading out—snow and ice can close certain sections.

Winter Adventures Worth Remembering

If you’re planning a trip to Boone this season, here’s a quick list of can’t-miss winter activities:

  • Ski or snowboard at App Ski, Beech, or Sugar Mountain
  • Go snow tubing at Hawksnest or Jonas Ridge
  • Warm up with a local coffee or craft beer downtown
  • Visit the Mast General Store for nostalgic mountain shopping
  • Take a scenic winter drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Enjoy a cozy night at Graystone Lodge—the best place to stay in Boone, NC

Make Boone Your Winter Tradition

From powdery slopes to peaceful trails, Boone, NC, offers something for everyone—families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Each visit feels like a story waiting to be told: mornings on the slopes, afternoons by the fire, and nights under a clear mountain sky.

This winter, trade the ordinary for something special. Plan your getaway, pack your warmest coat, and see why Boone truly is the best place to stay and play in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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