WINTER IN HAYWOOD COUNTY, NC – WINTER SPORTS, EVENTS & MORE
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky and Blue Ridge Mountains, Haywood County offers a winter wonderland like no other. From December through February, these mountains transform into a breathtaking landscape, with snow-covered peaks and frozen waterfalls creating a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.
The winter months are the best time to visit, with fewer crowds and a peaceful ambiance, you can explore the mountain’s majestic beauty at your own pace. Bundle up and embark on a nature trail, where you can witness the breathtaking vistas and perhaps even spot some wildlife braving the cold. Don’t forget your camera, as the opportunity to capture the park’s serene beauty is unparalleled during this time of year.
Haywood County is also home to five charming mountain towns that come alive during the winter months with events and activities. In Maggie Valley, you can enjoy cozy cabin rentals, family-friendly attractions, and Cataloochee Ski Area. Waynesville, the county seat, boasts a vibrant downtown filled with unique shops, art galleries, and delicious dining options. Canton, Lake Junaluska, and Clyde also offer their own distinct charms, making each town a delightful destination to explore.
Plan your trip today and discover the beauty and charm that awaits you in this picturesque North Carolina mountain destination.
WINTER Activities
Cataloochee Ski Area
With 18 slopes and trails, Cataloochee Ski Area offers mountains of fun for everyone, from skiers to snowboarders, novices to veterans.
Tube World
Tube World in Maggie Valley offers snow tubing fun for all ages! Enjoy racing down the slopes from mid-December to early March.
Winter Hiking
Enjoy uncrowded trails in the beautiful Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. There’s plenty of cool trails to explore close to town.
Choose N’ Cut Christmas trees
Enjoy the timeless tradition of choosing your own NC grown Frasier Fir Christmas Tree. Fun for the family and a fresh addition to your home.
Seasonal Shopping
Take a break from the chill of the outdoors for indoor shopping. Fill your bags and stuff your stockings with holiday treasures from our specialty shops!
HOLIDAY ARTS
The holidays are a lively time for the arts in Haywood. Take in a show at HART Theatre or browse the locally handcrafted creations of local artisans.
signature winter event: Visit Haywood ICE FEST WEEKEND
Get ready to chill out at the Visit Haywood Ice Fest Weekend! January 29-February 1, 2026 Haywood County will be transformed into a winter wanderland as the festival goes county-wide. Brace yourself for jaw-dropping ice sculptures, thrilling interactive ice games, and the chance to peruse local artisans’ masterpieces. But that’s not all – you can lace up your skates and glide across an ice skating rink, indulge in delicious dining specials, and snag some incredible deals while you shop. This weekend-long event is guaranteed to make your heart melt – in the best way possible!
