Asheville, North Carolina is a beautiful place to live year-round, but it is especially lovely in the winter. The rich culture and booming music scene are a big part of what makes Asheville so special, and there are plenty of things to do in the winter to keep you entertained.
Whether your taking a winter hike on one of Asheville's many trails or cozying up with a good book and some hot chocolate by the fire, there's something for everyone in Asheville this winter. You can also enjoy all the city has to offer by exploring the many shops, restaurants, festivals, and events.
And if you're feeling adventurous, you can check out one of the many exciting Asheville, NC tours that are available. To help make things a little easier, we've put together a list of some of the best things to do in Asheville this winter.
What is Winter Really Like in Asheville, NC?
Asheville is a four-season destination, but winter here is special. The temperatures are cooler, sure, but that doesn't mean there's any less to do! In fact, many people find that they enjoy Asheville more in the winter because there are fewer crowds. With an average of 12 inches of snowfall each year, you can also count on a few winter wonderland days.
Of course, every place has its pros and cons, so let's take a look at what winter is really like in Asheville.
Pros:
- Cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking
- The city is decorated for the holidays and looks especially festive
- There are often deals to be found on lodging and other attractions
Cons:
- Some businesses close down for the winter season
- The weather can be unpredictable, so you may need to pack for both warm and cold days
- Roads may be icy, so driving can be more challenging
Now that you know a little bit about what to expect, let's take a look at some of the best things to do in Asheville, NC this winter.
Top 6 Things to Do in Asheville This Winter
- Christmas at Biltmore
- Winter Wonder Walk Holiday Festival
- Experience The Cataloochee Ski Area
- Go Snowshoeing in Asheville, NC
- Winter Hiking Options in Asheville, NC
- Visit High Five Coffee
1. Christmas at Biltmore
When December comes around, one of the best things to do in Asheville is to visit the Biltmore Estate. This 250-room historic home is decorated for the holidays and looks especially beautiful during this time of year. With garlands, ribbons, Christmas trees, and even an outdoor nativity scene, the Biltmore is a must-see during the holidays.
You can take a tour of the house, explore the grounds, and even go ice skating on the large outdoor rink. It is hard to put into words how magical the Biltmore Estate is during Christmas, from the moment you drive up to the estate until the moment you leave, you'll be in awe.
2. Winter Wonder Walk Holiday Festival
Are you looking for a festive and affordable way to celebrate the holidays with your family? Then mark your calendars for the 2nd annual Winter Wonder Walk, coming this December to Asheville, NC! This unique event is an immersive story walk that takes place on a gorgeous outdoor trail.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy live characters, lights, and all the sights and sounds of a true Asheville Christmas. Best of all, the Winter Wonder Walk is free to attend. So, what are you waiting for? bundle up and come out for a festive good time!
Some of the other amazing winter festivals in Asheville, NC include:
3. Experience The Cataloochee Ski Area
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina, the Cataloochee Ski Area is just 40 miles from Asheville via I-40. Its top elevation is over 5,000 feet, with a vertical drop of about 740 feet. The ski area has 18 different runs, catering to beginners, intermediate, and advanced levels.
The Cataloochee Ski Area is a great option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some of the best NC has to offer in terms of activities. Despite the short travel time from Asheville, once you arrive at the ski area it feels like you are in a whole different world.
In addition to skiing, the Cataloochee Ski Area also offers tubing, snowboarding, state-of-the-art snowmaking, and more. Equipment rentals are available on-site, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own.
4. Go Snowshoeing in Asheville, NC
Asheville, NC is a beautiful place to discover the Appalachian wilderness, and snowshoeing is one of the best ways to do it. This five-hour tour, organized by Hike Bike Kayak Asheville, offers the ultimate opportunity to explore the area's stunning winter scenery while getting some exercise.
Guests are provided with snowshoes, poles, and hot cocoa when they arrive, and then it's off into the woods to discover all that nature has to offer. This is probably one of the best Asheville, NC activities and once you try it, you'll see why!
5. Winter Hiking Options in Asheville, NC
North Carolina is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, and in the wintertime, these landscapes take on a whole new character. If you're looking for a unique hiking experience, consider exploring some of the frozen waterfalls in the Asheville area.
DuPont State Forest is one of the most popular spots for waterfall lovers, boasting over 80 miles of trails that wind through cascading waterfalls and towering pines. Sliding Rock is another popular destination, where you can hike to the top of a 60-foot waterfall and then slide down into a natural pool.
Additional popular hiking trails near Asheville include:
6. Visit High Five Coffee
And last but not least, no visit to Asheville, NC is complete without a stop at High Five Coffee. This local coffee shop is known for its delicious coffee and friendly atmosphere. High Five Coffee is the perfect place to warm up on a chilly winter day. They feature artfully prepared coffee and light bites that are sure to please. Locals will say this is the best coffee in the city and a gathering place for friends, both new and old.
Whoever said there's nothing to do in Asheville, NC in the wintertime clearly hasn't tried any of these amazing activities. And while all these options may be enough to fill your winter days, there's no need to limit yourself. The truth is, there are endless possibilities for fun and adventure in this beautiful mountain town.
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