Best Winter Activities in and Around Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, is a popular destination year-round, but winter offers its own unique charm. From snow-filled adventures in the mountains to relaxing spa retreats, there are countless Asheville winter activities to suit every traveler. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more laid-back experience, Asheville delivers on all fronts. As you explore this winter wonderland, you’ll find that the region has everything from thrilling snow tubing and skiing to peaceful hikes and luxurious spa experiences. 

Here’s a guide to the best winter activities in and around Asheville to make your stay unforgettable.

Snow Tubing

If you’re looking for an activity that’s fun for all ages, snow tubing should be high on your list. With several well-maintained tubing parks around Asheville, you can enjoy a day full of laughter and fun rides. Whether you’re tubing with family or friends, these parks offer a fantastic way to spend a winter day in the mountains.

Moonshine Mountain

Located about 45 minutes from Asheville in Hendersonville, Moonshine Mountain offers an exhilarating snow tubing experience. It boasts one of the steepest tubing slopes in the area, making it perfect for thrill-seekers. Moonshine Mountain provides both single and double tubes, so you can ride solo or with a partner. This spot also features a magic carpet to easily bring you back up the hill, so you can spend more time tubing and less time walking. If you’re enjoying a winter getaway at one of our rentals in Hendersonville, NC, Moonshine Mountain is a can’t-miss attraction!

Tube World

Just 35 miles from Asheville near our Maggie Valley vacation rentals, Tube World is a family-friendly spot that offers a gentler ride, perfect for younger children. The park has a well-maintained tubing hill with multiple lanes, ensuring everyone gets a chance to speed down the snowy slope. Tube World also offers snow play areas for kids, so even the little ones can enjoy the winter fun.

Zip n Slip Snow Tubing Park

Zip n Slip Snow Tubing Park, located in nearby Mars Hill, offers a variety of tubing lanes that cater to all levels of experience. They even have a special area for younger kids, making it a great spot for families. The park is well-known for its friendly staff and affordable pricing, and it’s just a short drive from our Asheville, NC, vacation rentals.

Black Bear

For an authentic and rugged snow tubing experience, head to Black Bear Snow Tubing in Hendersonville. This park is a local favorite for its laid-back atmosphere and fun tubing lanes. Black Bear is a great option if you’re looking for a less commercialized experience where you can still get the adrenaline rush of speeding down a snowy hill.

Skiing/Snowboarding

For those who want to hit the slopes, Asheville’s surrounding mountains offer several excellent skiing and snowboarding spots. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are options for every skill level. You don’t have to go far from your Asheville luxury rentals to find a great day on the mountain.

Cataloochee

Cataloochee Ski Area, located in Maggie Valley, is one of the most popular destinations for skiing and snowboarding near Asheville. With 18 slopes and trails ranging from beginner to expert, Cataloochee offers something for everyone. The resort is also known for its great snowmaking capabilities, ensuring good conditions even if natural snow is scarce. It’s a perfect spot for both skiing and snowboarding, and rentals and lessons are available for beginners.

Hatley Pointe

For a more intimate skiing experience, head to Hatley Pointe, just a short drive from Asheville. While it’s smaller than some of the other ski resorts, it offers a quieter and more peaceful setting. The runs are great for beginners and intermediates, and you can enjoy a less crowded environment while still getting your ski fix.

Winter Hikes

If you’re looking for a quieter and more peaceful way to enjoy the winter landscape, Asheville offers plenty of scenic hikes. Snow-dusted trails and crisp mountain air make winter hiking a magical experience. Plus, the bare trees offer spectacular views of the mountains that aren’t always visible in the summer.

Bearwallow Mountain

Bearwallow Mountain is a moderate hike with stunning winter views. The 2-mile round-trip hike takes you to a grassy summit, where you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. On clear days, you can see for miles, making it an excellent spot for photography. Winter hiking here often means snow on the ground, creating a beautiful contrast against the blue sky.

John’s Rock Trail

Located in Pisgah National Forest, John’s Rock Trail offers a more challenging hike for those looking for adventure. This 5-mile loop takes you through lush forest areas before opening up to breathtaking views of Looking Glass Rock and the surrounding valley. The trail can be icy in the winter, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. The effort is well worth it when you reach the top and take in the quiet beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls

For a waterfall adventure, head to DuPont State Recreational Forest, where you can hike to Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, and High Falls. Each waterfall offers its own unique beauty, especially in the winter when icy formations add to the natural wonder. This is a relatively easy hike, making it accessible for most skill levels. The trail to the falls is about 2 miles long, perfect for a winter walk with stunning rewards at each stop.

Stay Warm at the Spa

After a day in the snow or on the trails, there’s no better way to warm up than by treating yourself to a spa day. Asheville is home to several luxurious spas where you can relax and rejuvenate. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot sauna, a soothing foot massage, or a full-body treatment, Asheville has a spa experience waiting for you.

Sauna House

Sauna House is a Scandinavian-inspired bathhouse that offers a variety of thermal therapy treatments. The alternating hot and cold cycle is said to improve circulation and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Sauna House is a great place to warm up after a cold day outside and to relax both body and mind.

Wake Foot Spa

For something a little different, visit Wake Foot Spa, where the focus is on pampering your feet. Their luxurious foot soaks are perfect after a long day of exploring Asheville’s trails or slopes. With a cozy and inviting atmosphere, Wake Foot Spa offers a range of treatments to soothe tired feet and promote relaxation.

Shoji Spa

Shoji Spa & Lodge offers a unique outdoor spa experience, with private hot tubs overlooking the serene Asheville mountains. Set amidst a lush forest, this Japanese-style spa is perfect for those looking to combine nature with relaxation. Shoji’s outdoor tubs and cedar sauna provide a warm escape on chilly winter days, and the spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages and body scrubs.

Your Stay with Yonder

When planning your Asheville winter getaway, having the right accommodations can make all the difference. Yonder Luxury Vacation Rentals offers over 200 properties to choose from, ensuring the perfect place for your stay. Whether you’re looking for a cozy 1-bedroom cabin tucked away in the woods or a spacious 10-bedroom mountain home for a large group, Yonder has a range of Asheville, NC, vacation rentals to suit your needs. With a focus on comfort, convenience, and luxury, Yonder properties provide a welcoming retreat after a day of winter adventures. Relax by the fire, take in the mountain views, or unwind in a hot tub as you make the most of your Asheville vacation. Plus, there are plenty of things to do in Asheville in close proximity to our rentals.

From snow tubing and skiing to scenic winter hikes and relaxing spa days, Asheville offers a winter wonderland of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re here for the adventure or the relaxation, you’ll find the perfect balance of excitement and tranquility in and around Asheville. Don’t forget to book your stay with Yonder Luxury Vacation Rentals to complete your winter escape.