While Asheville, North Carolina is known for its summer hiking and autumn colors, when the last of the leaves have fallen, there’s still plenty of things to do in Asheville in the winter. And while the activities are abundant, the crowd is not, which makes it a doubly good time to visit.
Greybeard has a great page on the best time to visit Asheville, and of course it includes Asheville in the winter. Many people are familiar with Christmas in Asheville, from visiting the bedecked Biltmore Estate to securing your fresh tree from a local Christmas tree farm, however, fun winter activities in Asheville don’t stop when Christmas ends. Instead, activities in the western NC mountains are just getting heated up.
Skiing Near Asheville
While snow in the area can be unpredictable, in terms of how much and how often, NC ski resorts have perfected the art of snow making, and it only takes a few days of colder temperatures to get the snow guns firing. Try nearby Cataloochee Ski Resort and Wolf Ridge Ski Resort for a quick trip to hit the slopes, or travel just a bit further to Beech, Appalachian Ski Mountain, Sugar, or Sapphire Valley. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, many of these sites also offer tubing as an alternative. At Greybeard, we also can direct you to some pretty awesome sledding hills, if that’s of interest. Learn more about Asheville area skiing here.
Winter Hiking
If you’re still seeking action, head out to one of the gorgeous waterfall hikes in the area. Sure, some of them may be icicled but just imagine the incredible photos you will capture with the winter light reflecting off the watery ice. Sure, it’s a bit colder than in the summertime, but there are no bugs and no crowds. It’s a serene, solitary and crisp: A perfect way to spend a winter afternoon. Take a look at Greybeard's Hiking page or contact us for some winter hiking suggestions.
Warm Spas and Winter Drives
If the winter activities tire you out, take a moment to rejuvenate. Greybeard Rentals Guest Services can connect you with services at the Spa at Biltmore Villages. In addition, a leisurely drive can also be restorative, and there are many beautiful choices available. One option is the Blue Ridge Parkway, but be forewarned that sometimes it can be closed, even if conditions seem okay so always check the Parkway website before heading out on for a scenic winter drive.
Eat, Drink and Be Merry
For nourishment, be sure to eat at one of Asheville’s farm-to-table restaurants and maybe follow that up with a chocolate treat from any of the number of chocolate specialty shops in Asheville. A few of our favorites include the French Broad Chocolate Lounge, Kilwins, Chocolate Gems, and the Chocolate Fetish. And please don’t forget the craft beers the Asheville area offers. You'll find some nice winter seasonal beers. Take advantage of one of the brewery tours or grab a six-pack of a local brew for home. If you feel more like eating in, the Western NC Farmers market is open daily year-round. So, if you feel like stocking up and eating in, you’ll want to check it out.
Shopping
Of course the city of Asheville is bustling 365 days a year, and it’s always worth the trip. With shops, art galleries and antique stores, you can spend a whole day just browsing your way through town. While you’re there, don’t forget to stop in at one of our favorite haunts, Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe. Peruse the shelves or select one of the employee suggested reads and head on back to your rental home to snuggle in by the fire and recuperate from the busy winter day.
As you see, Asheville doesn’t slow down in the winter, it just changes some of its offerings. If you’re ready to try an Asheville winter holiday, take a look at Greybeard Rentals’ cabin listings. Search using the filter options that include a fireplace, a view, a hot tub, and pet-friendly homes. You can also give us a call and we will assist you in selecting the perfect cabin that works for some wintertime exploring. And don’t forget to look at our vacation rental special deals as well. Western NC is an incredible place to experience during the winter, check it out!