As the Winter Olympics garner attention in Italy, Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein have embarked on a tour of North Carolina's ski resorts, celebrating the state's winter sports scene and its economic contributions. The couple's itinerary includes stops at Appalachian Ski Mountain’s French-Swiss Ski College and the renowned Beech Mountain Ski Resort, with a planned visit to Sugar Mountain Ski Resort lined up. The ski industry in North Carolina boasts considerable figures, generating upwards of $244 million with over 780,000 visitors flocking annually to the state’s six ski resorts.
During the visit, Governor Stein emphasized the appeal of Western North Carolina's economy, urging people to discover the region's mountains for both vacations and business. "Western North Carolina is open for business, and thousands of people are choosing our state as their vacation destination," Governor Stein told visiting reporters, highlighting the instrumental role of the ski industry in supporting jobs and small businesses. A representative of the North Carolina Ski Area Association, Kimberley Jochl, likewise pointed out the vibrancy of the ski industry, with a third of visitors experiencing skiing for the first time. Ski areas have seen enhancements aimed at making this winter season enjoyable for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers.
A notable factor contributing to the allure of North Carolina's winter sports is the region's highest mountains and diverse activities, supported by quality instruction for beginners. Wit Tuttell, Executive Director of Visit NC, detailed how the mountain landscapes have become increasingly attractive through continuous development, both on and off the slopes. A testament to the recovery following the 2024 Hurricane Helene event, Brad Moretz, President of Appalachian Ski Mountain, expressed his satisfaction with Governor Stein’s efforts in promoting the fully recovered local skiing and supporting industries, which are enjoying a robust winter season.
The Steins also took the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of athletes with ties to North Carolina who are competing in Italy, including Eunice Lee in speedskating, Mystique Ro in skeleton, and Kayden Beasley in sled hockey. Complementing them are five Carolina Hurricanes NHL team players competing in their respective nations’ hockey teams, such as Sebastian Aho for Finland, highlighted by ominously glazed mountains standing tall against the backdrop of the Olympic events. Since 1962, over 1 million individuals have taken up the sport at Appalachian Ski Mountain’s French-Swiss Ski College, evidencing North Carolina’s role over 60 years as the Winter Sports Capital of the South and fostering sports and recreational enjoyment year-round for both neophytes and experts.
With an economic impact exceeding $244 million annually and supporting nearly 2,000 jobs, North Carolina’s ski resorts not only serve as a hub of winter activity but also as a significant economic engine. Visitor spending at these resorts and related activities contribute an extra $96 million in indirect economic value each year to the state. Offering the highest-elevation skiing on the entire eastern seaboard, with peaks towering above 5,000 feet, North Carolina continues to be a premier destination for winter sports aficionados and tourists alike.
