Cataloochee Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 20, 2025
It’s December 20, 2025, and while the calendar says winter, Mother Nature hasn’t fully cooperated at Cataloochee Ski Area just yet. Cataloochee Ski Area is a popular ski resort in North Carolina.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Summary
Overnight temperatures hovered at a mild 43.1°F, keeping natural snow at bay and limiting snowpack depth to a mere 0.01 inches. With no fresh snow in the forecast, skiing conditions remain limited. However, thanks to Cataloochee’s robust snowmaking capabilities, several base-area trails are open for early-season turns. Expect spring-like conditions with soft, machine-made snow in the morning and slushier terrain by afternoon. Ideal for beginners and those eager to shake off the rust, but advanced skiers might want to wait for more coverage.
Despite the warmth, the vibe at Cataloochee is spirited. Local headlines celebrate the resort's resilience, with stories highlighting its early season adaptations and commitment to guests. From "The Cat Does It for the Kids" to shoutouts about being open during challenging weather, the mountain community remains energized. For those looking to experience the slopes in North Carolina before prime conditions hit, Cataloochee offers a friendly, scenic mountain getaway—just don’t forget your sense of adventure and a pair of rock skis.
Weather Forecast
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from New Found Gap.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from New Found Gap
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Cataloochee Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Cataloochee Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Cataloochee Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The Cataloochee Ski Area in North Carolina is located in the Great Smoky Mountains, specifically in the Cataloochee Valley. The resort is situated within the Cataloochee Ranch and is surrounded by several mountain ranges and peaks, including:
1. The Great Smoky Mountains: This iconic mountain range is the most prominent feature surrounding the Cataloochee Ski Area. It is part of the larger Appalachian Mountain range and offers stunning views and diverse terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
2. Mount Sterling: Located to the southeast of the ski resort, Mount Sterling is a prominent peak in the Great Smoky Mountains. It offers challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
3. Hemphill Bald: Hemphill Bald is a mountain peak located to the north of the ski area. It offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for backcountry skiing and snowboarding.
4. Cataloochee Peak: This peak is located within the Cataloochee Valley and provides a picturesque backdrop for the ski resort. It offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels.
Overall, the Cataloochee Ski Area is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and peaks that provide a unique and scenic backdrop for skiing and snowboarding.
The resort has 18 trails, 5 lifts, and a vertical drop of 740 feet. The best trails at Cataloochee Ski Area are Upper and Lower Snowbird, Upper and Lower Omigosh, and Rocket. An interesting fact is that the resort is named after the nearby Cataloochee Valley, which was once a thriving community but was later abandoned. For beginner skiers, the best trail is Easy Way, which is a gentle slope perfect for learning and practicing. The best apres ski bar is Tony's Tube World & Arcade, which offers a fun and lively atmosphere with arcade games and great drinks.
Cataloochee Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Cataloochee Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Cataloochee Ski Area today?
Weather today, sunny, with a high near 48. west wind around 10 mph becoming south in the afternoon. winds could gust as high as 20 mph.
What are ski area conditions in North-Carolina like right now?
Ski enthusiasts looking for fresh powder should direct their attention toward the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains, as recent observations indicate new snowfall in these regions. In Washington, the Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has received 2 inches of fresh snow over the past 24 hours, with a considerable base of 170 inches. Despite the haze and slight chance of thunderstorms, ... Read more