Cataloochee Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 24, 2025
Cataloochee Ski Area is serving up a festive Christmas Eve with prime skiing conditions and deep snow coverage. Cataloochee Ski Area is a popular ski resort in North Carolina.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Summary
With a snowpack depth of 84 inches and overnight temperatures holding steady at 38.8°F, the mountain remains in excellent shape thanks to a winning combination of natural snowfall and ongoing snowmaking. While no fresh snow is forecasted for today, well-groomed trails and consistent coverage ensure that skiers and snowboarders can enjoy smooth runs throughout all open terrain. The base is holding strong, and surface conditions are predominantly packed powder with a slight granular mix in sun-exposed areas.
This season has been “a great, but different kind” at Cataloochee, with dedicated efforts from snowmakers responding to fluctuating temps and early warm spells that impacted some regional resorts. However, Cataloochee continues to thrive, with all lifts spinning and snow tubing in full swing—perfect for holiday visitors. Don’t miss the Magic Carpet and the scenic rides that make Cataloochee a family favorite. Local skiers are already calling it the best ski day of the season, and with the mountain in full festive mode, it's an ideal time to carve your way through a true Southern Appalachian winter wonderland.
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, a 40 percent chance of showers before 9am. mostly cloudy, with a high near 56. northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
What are ski area conditions in North-Carolina like right now?
Nationwide, skiers and snowboarders are eyeing the latest snowfall reports and forecasts as resorts prepare for a fresh dusting. In Washington State, Nohrsc Sawmill Ridge has received 2 inches of new snow over the past 24 hours, with a base depth of 170 inches. While not a ski resort, the nearby Crystal Mountain Resort will surely benefit from this snowfall, ... Read more