Highlands offers countless ways to enjoy a winter day. For adventure lovers, a trip to the Highlands Outpost offers exciting snow tubing runs and a ride on the Scaly Screamer alpine coaster, where you can speed down the mountain through a frosty landscape. If you enjoy a slower pace, take a stroll down Main Street, where twinkling lights and festive window displays set a cheerful holiday scene. Cozy up with a warm cup of hot chocolate from a local coffee shop as you browse through unique shops, art galleries, and boutiques, finding one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs. As the sun sets, head to the ice-skating rink to skate under the stars or relax fireside at one of the town's inviting restaurants, where seasonal dishes and mountain hospitality make you feel right at home.

Highlands Outpost 
7420 Dillard Road, Scaly Mountain, NC 28755

At Highlands Outpost, visitors can enjoy a variety of winter activities suitable for both kids and adults. The snow tubing hill provides a thrilling experience, while those looking for a slower pace can try the ice-skating rink or gem mining. For more excitement, bundle up and take a ride on the Scaly Screamer, the longest alpine coaster in North Carolina.

 

Ski Sapphire Valley
127 Cherokee Trail, Sapphire, NC 28774
Opening December 14

For a range of outdoor winter fun, head to Ski Sapphire Valley. This winter sports resort offers snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing, with lessons available for beginners. It’s a great spot for families looking to spend a day in the snow.

 

Sledding on “Monkey Hill”
Hickory Street, Highlands, NC

If there’s enough snow, grab a sled and head to “Monkey Hill,” a local favorite for sledding. This large hill on Hickory Street makes for a perfect run on snowy days.

Sledding on Monkey Hill

 

Ice Skating in the Park
Pine Street, Highlands, NC

Visit Kelsey-Hutchinson Park for ice skating, which costs just $8 (skates included). Sizes range from youth 8 to adult 14. If you get cold, warm up with hot chocolate or coffee available on-site. There are also dining options nearby, such as Fresser’s and The Secret Garden in Village Square.

Woman ice skating on an ice skating rink in Highlands, North Carolina.

 

Christmas Lights in Town

Starting the Saturday after Thanksgiving, Highlands lights up with festive decorations along Main Street and Kelsey-Hutchinson Park, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.

Highlands' Main Street during the Holiday season.

 

Hot Chocolate on Main Street

While exploring the shops on Main Street, don’t forget to stop by Kilwin’s ice cream shop or Calder’s Coffee Cafe for a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

 

Winter Waterfalls

On particularly cold days, the waterfalls in the area create stunning icy formations from mist that freezes at the bottom. You can see these beautiful sights at Bridal Veil Falls or Dry Falls. Just be sure to stay safe and watch for slippery ice.

Dry Falls winter days
 

Pick Out a Christmas Tree

A short drive from Highlands leads to local Christmas tree farms, perfect for kicking off the holiday season. Enjoy fresh mountain air while picking out a beautiful evergreen. Here are a few nearby farms:

Chimney Pond Farm
240 Chimney Pond Road, Glenville, NC 28736
Open: November 27, 29, 30 & December 1-8

Grandy Mountain Christmas Tree Farm
Dry Land Lane, Glenville, NC 28736
Open: November 22, 9:30am - 4:30pm.
November 23, 9am - 5pm; limited hours through November 27.
November 29 and 30, 9am - 5pm.

Moss Tree Farm
1822 Norton Road, Cashiers, NC 28717
Open: November 29, 30 & December 1, 9am - 4pm.

With so much to do this winter, Highlands, NC, is the perfect place to enjoy the season with family and friends.