Governor Josh Stein Visits High Country Ski Resorts Promoting Winter Tourism

"We are the Ski Capital of the South."

The High Country welcomed North Carolina Governor Josh Stein and First Lady Anna Stein for a Winter Olympics–inspired visit this week. Governor Stein highlighted western North Carolina's thriving winter sports industry during a press event at Appalachian Ski Mountain in Blowing Rock, emphasizing the region’s role as both a tourism destination and economic driver. 

"Every year the ski industry supports about 2,000 jobs and generates about $250 million of economic activity," said Governor Stein. "More than 780,000 skiers and snowboarders visit our state each year. If you are out there watching and you haven't been one, we invite you to become one."

Governor Stein was joined by Brad Moretz with Appalachian Ski Mountain, Kim Jochl with the North Carolina Ski Association and Sugar Mountain Resort, Ryan Costin with Beech Mountain Resort, and Whit Tuttell with Visit NC. 

Costin, Beech Mountain Ski Resort President, shared insights on the unique offerings of each resort to create a standout winter experience across the region. This weekend, Governor Stein and the First Lady will visit all three High Country resorts: Appalachian Ski Mountain, Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, and Beech Mountain Ski Resort. The Chamber extends a special thank you to the Moretz Family of Appalachian Ski Mountain for their warm hospitality and community leadership.

Whether visitors are skiers or not, western North Carolina offers plenty of winter fun, including tubing, sledding, live music, food, and cozy fire pits. Appalachian Ski Mountain’s French-Swiss Ski College has welcomed over one million skiers since its inception, providing a world-class learning experience. Jochl, President of the North Carolina Ski Association, noted that winter tourism generates about $250 million in just four months for rural communities across the state. With world-class resorts, exciting winter activities, and welcoming communities, there’s never been a better time to plan a High Country winter getaway or staycation.

Appalachian Ski Mountain          Beech Mountain Resort          Sugar Mountain Resort