Weekly Winter Ski Report

February 2, 2012: Ski in Short Sleeves!

Skiing the Tropics: Ok, so it's not exactly tropical weather in Asheville, but it certainly hasfelt more like spring over the past month. Last weekend skiers were delightedthat Asheville received two doses of wintry precipitation, however warmertemperatures and sunshine quickly replaced those chilly days.

Area Weather Update
While above average temperatures are dominating the current forecast, there is the possibility of snow over in the weekend in the higher elevations. Daytime temperatures will remain in the 50s while overnight lows will range from the low 30s to low 40s.

So Where is Winter?

According to Pamela McCown, the Coordinator for the AB-Teck Institute for Climate Educations, it has to do with the polar vortex.

“The polar vortex is a band of winds that blow counterclockwise, circling the Arctic,” said McCown. “During some years, that band of winds is very strong and acts as a dam that keeps much of the cold air locked up over the Polar Regions, and out of the lower 48. So far, that's been the situation for much of this winter.”

Area Ski Reports

• Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

  

  Depth of Base: 23"–29"

  Surface: Groomed

  Trails/Lifts Operating: 10/2

  Night Skiing: Yes

  Tubing/Runs: Yes—2 tubing locations

  Click for more information.

• Cataloochee

  

  Depth of Base: 36"–69"

  Surface: Groomed

  Trails/Lifts Operating: 16/5

  Night Skiing: Tuesday–Sunday

  Click for more information.

• Tube World

  

  Four slopes running for two-hour periods:

  10am, 12pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm

  Single riders only.

  Click for more information.

Learn to Ski!

January is Learn How to Ski & Snowboard month and if you’ve been looking for an opportunity to learn a new sport, now’s your chance.

Cataloochee is offering one free beginner lesson with any ski equipment rental. Note that this special is being offered the entire season and not just January.

Wolf Ridge: Learn to Ski or Ride like the pros!  A number of private or group lessons are available to help the timid skier/snowboarder channel their inner Shawn White.

Race the Professionals

New at Cataloochee this year is NASTAR, a public racing program that provides recreational racers with an opportunity to compare their ability to the fastest member of the US Ski Team. This fun, competitive and easily accessible racing program allows racers of all ages and abilities a means to compare themselves with one another, regardless of when and where they race. This is accomplished by establishing the National Standard on each NASTAR course, and through a racer handicap system. Each time you race NASTAR, you could win Platinum, Gold, Silver or Bronze medals based on the handicap you earn. The NASTAR races are held at Cataloochee on Saturday and Sunday each week beginning at 12 PM. Visit their site for more information.

Stay Warm:

Don’t feel like playing outside or need to warm up a bit? Cozy up next to one of the many fireplaces available at the Wolf Ridge Lodge.

Ridge Lodge

Relax in this 22,000 sq. ft. glass and timber lodge located adjacent to Scenic Wolf Resort and near the top of the slopes, has a commanding view of the mountains and  valleys below. Warm up and relax at The Ridge Lodge around the large fireplace or visit the Gift Shop. There is ample room for families and guests to relax.

Base Lodge

The Base Lodge is a large rustic lodge nestled at the bottom of the slopes, features three large fireplaces where guests can warm up and a large viewing deck and glassed viewing area where family members - not braving the elements - may sit and watch the action on the slopes. All groups visiting the resort will check in at the Group Sales Office at the Base Lodge. Also, tickets purchased online will be held at the Information Office located here.