General Questions
WHEN IS OPENING DAY?
Our goal is to begin snowmaking efforts as soon as cold weather arrives each season. Historically, this occurs in mid to late November. Given that opening is entirely weather dependent, this varies from season to season and is often not determined until 24-72 hours prior. You can find our historical season operation dates here.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING AS A FIRST TIMER?
Find our first time and beginner snow preparation tips here.
DO YOU HAVE A LOST AND FOUND?
Yes. Lost and found is located on the lower level of the main lodge at Guest Services. If you are no longer on-site, you can send an email with your contact information and a description of the lost item to info@cataloochee.com. If you have photos of the item(s) please include them.
DO YOU HAVE LODGING AVAILABLE?
We do not offer lodging at Cataloochee Ski Area. The best resource for finding lodging that meets your personal criteria is here.
WHAT IS THE MEADOW RUN AND IS IT OPEN?
The meadow is the only ski area run beyond the official ski area boundary. For this reason, it is only open when we receive a significant amount of natural snowfall. This run is prohibited unless explicitly listed as being open on the snow report due to inherent risks associated with skiing or riding in areas not maintained or monitored by the ski area.
DO YOU SELL GIFT CARDS?
We no longer sell Gift Cards. Previously purchased Gift Cards (CAT Cash) can still be redeemed during your next visit. To redeem, guest must present the physical card at the outlet of choice at the time of use/purchase.
IS THERE A SCENIC LIFT RIDE OPTION?
No. A valid slope pass or night pass and appropriate skiing or snowboarding equipment are required to access any lift or slope systems (including bunny slopes). During the off-season we are closed to the public and do not offer scenic lift rides or spring/summer activities.
ARE YOU OPEN DURING BAD WEATHER?
Yes. We operate rain or shine at Cataloochee Ski Area. We take precaution when there are thunderstorms and/or heavy winds forecasted in the area. On rare occasions we may cease lift operations for a short period of time during such storms. We do not issue refunds for variable weather conditions.
CAN WE SLED?
No. Sledding, tubing, and walking on the slopes at Cataloochee Ski Area without appropriate ski or snowboard equipment is strictly prohibited. Tubing is available at Tube World located at 4721 Soco Rd in Maggie Valley.
DO YOU MAKE SNOW DURING BUSINESS HOURS?
We make every attempt not to make snow on guests during business hours, however, at time slope conditions and weather dependent windows of opportunity occasionally take precedence. We work hard to bring you the best skiing conditions all season long.
DO YOU HAVE A DRONE POLICY?
Check it out here.
WHAT ARE THE FOOD AND BEVERAGE OPTIONS?
We have a cafeteria that operates the same hours as the ski area and serves burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, french fries, hot soups, hot and cold drinks, salads, sandwiches, daily specials, etc. Be advised, outside alcohol is prohibited throughout the property. We have a full bar on-site that is open from 11:00 Am until close each day. All alcohol purchased must be consumed inside the main lodge or on the slopeside deck attached to the lodge.
DO YOU SELL RETAIL ITEMS ONLINE?
Currently, we only sell retail items and Cataloochee Ski Area merchandise on-site. The Shop is located on the upper level of the Main Lodge. Items available range from t-shirts, hoodies, and hats to stickers, hand warmers and ski/snowboard locks.
ARE LOCKERS AVAILABLE?
Electronic lockers are available for rent both downstairs in the main lodge, as well as next door in the boot rental building. Daily use lockers are available in four sizes:
Small: $6.00 Large: $12.00 Jumbo: $18.00 Gear Garage: $40.00
Credit cards are the accepted form of payment, which can be made at the bank of lockers you choose to utilize. For this reason, lockers are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once rented, lockers are accessed using the personal pin you created at the time of purchase. Upon completion for the day(s), pushing the red “End Rent” button will release the locker back into inventory.
CAN I USE SNOW SKATES OR A SNOW BIKE?
Yes. Snow skates are permitted any time, while snow bikes are permitted on non-holiday weekdays. Both can be utilized from quad lift down, on blue and green trails only. All alternative sliding equipment is required to have metal edging and a restraining device (leash). Equipment must be approved by management or Ski Patrol, and users are required to sign a waiver at Guest Services prior to accessing any lift or slope systems.
IS THERE SHUTTLE SERVICE UP THE MOUNTAIN?
No. We do not provide transportation from the bottom of the mountain to the ski area, or on any portion of Fie Top Rd. We do provide an on-site complimentary shuttle service once overflow parking lots are in use.
WHAT ARE THE ROAD CONDITIONS?
Cataloochee Ski Area maintains Fie Top Road at times of inclement weather. On these occasions, we recommend 4-wheel or all-wheel drive. If only 2-wheel drive is available, we recommend installing chains on tires for better traction. We update the road conditions daily here.
DO YOU HAVE AN ATM?
No. All of our products and services can be purchased with debit/credit cards.
CAN I BRING MY DOG?
We love your furry friends; however, animals are not permitted inside or around Cataloochee Ski Area, with the exception of service animals. Service animals are welcome in the lodge and surrounding area of the lodge building. All animals, including service animals, are prohibited from accessing lifts and slope systems, as well as activity areas. They must be on a leash and under control at all times. It is the responsibility of the service animal owner to clean up after service animals; waste left behind is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.