Starting at Carvers Gap, experienced hikers with the proper gear can trek part of the Appalachian Trail to the summit of Roan Mountain’s Grassy Ridge Bald. photograph by Nate Bowery
When snow wraps the Appalachians, most folks stay put, leaving the trails untouched. But those who venture up to any of Roan Mountain’s five summits will find the Blue Ridge slumbering under frosted layers of clouds and ice, sun and snow.
Though the stairs and famous walkway behind Dry Falls are best left to the ice, visitors can still glimpse this frozen spectacle from our state’s Waterfall Byway, along part of U.S. Highway 64. photograph by Robert Stephens
As temperatures drop, the water once cascading over the 75-foot Dry Falls hangs suspended in time. The torrent seems to freeze in midair, transforming into a crystalline bed of spires and spikes that glitter against the rock face.
Western North Carolina has one of the nation’s largest concentrations of barn quilt folk art. These, at a private farm in Newland, invite travelers along U.S. Highway 221 to admire the view. photograph by Robert Stephens
It’s as if barn quilts were made for snowy days. When the High Country’s farms turn white, the land seems to sleep. But then — oh! — the bright squares shout against the undyed landscape, pops of color in an otherwise hushed, whitewashed world. Even the cows appear stitched into the scene, part of the pattern that invites passersby to pause.
After a day at Beech Mountain Resort, Fred’s General Mercantile (left) offers a roaring woodstove, hot meals, and anything else snow bunnies need to warm up. photograph by Derek DiLuzio; VisitNC.com
Winter usually signals rest, but ski resort towns can’t stay still in such weather. Riders bundled in neon jackets, scarves, and mittens streak down packed tubing lanes, sending powder and laughter flying into the quiet woods beyond.
The Mast Farm Inn in Valle Crucis offers seven rooms in the historic main lodge (right) and 10 private cottages, including The Loom House (left), built in 1810. photograph by Revival Creatives
Nothing compares to waking to snow that snuck in while you slept. It’s all the more dreamy in a warm, early-1800s bed and breakfast. Cross the creaky floor and peer through wavy-paned glass that has witnessed so many dustings before. Perhaps you’ll stay in today.
Before you go, check the Grandfather Mountain Nature Park & Swinging Bridge website for information on weather-related closures. Visit grandfather.com. photograph by JIM MAGRUDER/MAGRUDERPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
When snow blows across Grandfather Mountain, the mile-high peak stiffens with a sharp beauty. But just as quickly, drifts pile up on rocky ledges and windblown trees, softening the contours of the rugged landscape.
Oh, the glory of a college snow day, when routines turn to romps and young adults ease back into childhood play. Students making their way to the dining hall to stock up on supplies break out in giggly snowball fights. For however long the coverage lasts, the campus breathes easy — and studies can wait.
The Oregon Inlet Life-Saving Station in Rodanthe stands resilient, braving winter like a seasoned sailor. photograph by Matt Lusk
Even as frigid waves roll ashore, the Outer Banks’ old life-saving stations stand stoic, as they have since the late 19th century. Windows are sealed like eyes squeezed shut against the gales, while cedar shakes keep the buildings zipped tight and dry. These stations have weathered this before — and more.
The beaches of the Outer Banks, like Carova in Currituck County, exhale deeply in the off-season’s stillness. photograph by Mallory Fountain, Fair Fortune Photography
It’s not often that sand and snow get to cuddle together. But when they do, the coast seems to sigh. The sun, dipping low on an early evening, pulls covers of pink, purple, and gold over the beach, tucking the shore into a serene truce of fire and frost.
This story was published on Dec 29, 2025
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