A love letter to a local mountain, written by one of our staff members who knows that “good enough” days often become the best ones:
Cataloochee isn't the greatest ski resort in the USA. It may not even be the best ski resort in NC. But what it does have is a certain feeling that can't be replicated, a feeling that has inspired me to keep going year after year, no matter what conditions await.
I've always thought that the fact that we're able to ski in these mountains at all is a miracle. We don't have high altitudes, deep natural snow, or long vertical drops here in the southern Appalachians. So, the fact that we're able to make snow and slide around on it doesn't feel like a compromise to me. It's not, "well it's good for NC," or "I'd rather be in Colorado," it's "Wow, how lucky am I to get to make turns today! And less than an hour from home!" I think growing up riding on these mountains has built character and tolerance. Make no mistake, I love a powder day as much as the next person, but knowing how to deal with southeastern conditions has made me a more adaptable, and happier snowboarder.
Another quality I've always adored about NC skiing and snowboarding is the "low rent" feeling. Old ski lodges from the 70s, a distinct lack of luxury accommodations, the old chair lifts - these all serve to remind us that we're just getting out to enjoy the mountains in any way we can. On any given ski day in our area, you could just as easily be mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, maybe even kayaking. But because of the hard work put forth by the local ski areas, we can add skiing to that list from December to March, and sometimes longer.
Out of all the NC ski areas, Cataloochee may be the one that embodies the vibe most completely. They make no attempt to seem fancier than they are, yet they consistently provide a quality experience for everyone on the mountain. The amenities are stark, but they're all I need to have a great day. Their lift prices are affordable, and the mountain is easily accessible. Cataloochee Ski area sits adjacent to Cataloochee Ranch, just one ridge over from the boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains. (The area of the park just north of the ski area shares the name "Cataloochee") The town of Maggie Valley below is a popular summer destination for folks seeking to escape the heat of lower elevations, and to access the National Park. So, in the winter time it is quiet and peaceful. Just make sure that you stick to the speed limits as you come through town! If you're new to the sport you can get nearly everything you need from the rental department - boots, skiis, helmet, even outerwear. Taking a private or group lesson is a great way to get started, and they have multiple slopes for new skiers. More experienced riders and skiers will want to head straight for the (brand new!) 4 person lift to the top of the mountain. There is a bar and a cafeteria line if you need to take a break, or maybe just need some "liquid courage." For me, the best feature of "Cat" is that it's a very easy 50 minute drive from my home in east Asheville to the parking lot. This means any time I have a spare 4 hours during the season, I can quickly pop over there and get a few hours of riding in.
Here at Second Gear, we employees tend to joke about how everything we wear comes from the store. This is especially true on the mountain! Second Gear is the perfect place to start if you are planning a ski trip - there's a very good chance we'll have what you need at the very best price.
By Peter
Second Gear Retail Manager