Cataloochee provides a great place for skiing in the Southeast.
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The air is brisker. The days shorter. The trees sparser. Soon fake snow will be falling on countless slopes. Indeed, it’s time for ski season.
The South is not the first place you might think of when skiing is in question. In fact, it might be the last. However, while Dixie may not be able to offer the powder snow of Colorado or the pristine conditions of West Virginia, it’s a great place to hone your ski skills.
The Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley, N.C. is a great ski resort for both the uninitiated and advanced. It boasts 15 slopes—25 percent of which are for beginners, 50 percent for intermediate and 25 percent for advanced.
Kristen Norris, an avid skier and snowboarder, is a Cataloochee frequenter and takes advantage of this Maggie Valley resort every season she can.
“Cataloochee provides a wide variety of slopes. It is especially well-suited for beginners because it has several bunny slopes that will allow new skiers to get comfortable on the skis,” Norris said.
On Nov. 1, Cataloochee opened its doors for a new ski season. However, they have limited hours until Dec. 17. Cataloochee offers several different levels of skiing instruction —from novice to expert. They offer both classes and private lessons, but the class versions are considerably less expensive.
If you’re worried that you’ll be the only person in a beginner class over the age of 10, check out a private session. You’ll get one-on-one attention and master the basics more quickly. Taking some sort of tutorial class as a skiing virgin is crucial for both safety and fun. You’ll learn how to balance, stop, and turn.
“The classes at Cataloochee are really informative and helpful,” Norris said. “The beginner classes will prepare even a brand-new skier for a day on the slopes.”
Before hitting the slopes, make sure that you have the right gear. You’ll need varying clothing, depending on the weather. What you absolutely will need, no matter what, is waterproof clothes. Especially if you’re just learning how to ski, you will fall down…a lot. Do we even need to reminisce about how not fun it is to be cold and wet? A ski bib and jacket will keep you both dry and warm. If you don’t have this gear, no worries. Either borrow some from a friend or rent them at Cataloochee.
Having properly fitting skis is another important part of enjoying a day on the slopes. Cold toes and blisters will quickly ruin a day of skiing. You want to have plenty of toe room. If your toes touch the front of the boot, blood will not be able to get to them as well and they will become cold very quickly. At the same time, you don’t want your foot to be able to slide around in the boot because that will lead to blisters. Boots should fit snugly against the top of your foot’s arch as well as in the heel pocket so that when you walk, your heel won’t slip up and down — much like finding a good fitting shoe. As long as your toes have room but your heel is secure, your feet will be praising you the next morning and throughout the day as well. Skis are for rent at Cataloochee, and if you have any questions about the fit, just ask an attendant.
Other than that, just bring a good attitude and some ice for the morning after. You will be sore. For more information about Cataloochee Ski Area or Maggie Valley, N.C., visit www.cataloochee.com or call (828) 926-0285.
