With 18 slopes and trails, Cataloochee Ski Area offers mountains of fun for everyone, from skiers to snowboarders, from novices to veterans. Beginners can get a feel for things on a couple of smooth, gentle slopes (classes and private lessons are also available), while the more adventurous can head to the ramps, rails and boxes at the Cat Cage Terrain Park. For those with a need for speed, there’s plenty of steepness on this mountain. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, the surrounding views are magical. For ski report, call 828-926-3588 or 800-768-3588. Check out www.kidsskifree.com for a great promotional offer.
Everything You Need To Know Starts Here
Here are a few of the most frequent questions asked about what to expect from your visit with us as well.
1. How long will it take to be able to ski or ride?
Just in your first day, you’ll learn how to turn, slow down, stop and ride the lifts. Generally if you are trying skiing for the first time, you should be able to do quite a bit on your first day. Snowboarding is a bit more difficult the first time. However, the learning curve is much easier after just a few tries. With the help of Cataloochee’s staff of trained ski and snowboard instructors, you’ll be skiing and riding in no time.
2. Should I take a lesson?
YES! It’s the easiest and quickest way to learn.
3. How can I find out the conditions before I go?
Cataloochee publishes a conditions report or a snow report. It’s done on a daily basis and gives you a summary of the temperatures, trails open, lifts running, weather conditions, and more. We update our reports every evening after close. We put our conditions report on our website, phone systems, and publish it to all the major news agencies that report national ski conditions.
4. What do I bring?
Below is a list of items that will help to make your first day at Cataloochee a great one. This list is meant to only be a suggestion and is dependent entirely on your preferences. Remember, ski bibs and jackets can be rented from Cataloochee Ski & Sports Shop in Maggie Valley as well as The Shop @ Cataloochee for $10.00 per item, per session.
Sunglasses
Goggles
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Bag to carry change of clothing, boots, and extra equipment
Long Underwear
Ski Pants or Bib Pants
Outer Layer Jacket (Preferably waterproof/breathable shell)
Gloves or Mittens (Waterproof is preferred)
Neck Gaitor
Turtleneck
Sweater or fleece
Socks or Sock Liner (one thin to medium pair)
Vest (for insulation)
Face Mask
Change of clothes for after skiing or riding
Hat or Headband (80% of your body’s heat escapes through your head. brrrr!)
