From Tubing to Trails…
Woof! Hello from Mr. Pickles
Hi there! I’m Mr. Pickles, enthusiastic tail-wagger and your furry guide to winter in Highlands, North Carolina. I’ve trotted through the snow-dusty trails, sniffed frosty air and curled up beside the coziest fireplaces. Grab a cup of hot cocoa (or delicious dog-safe treat for me) and let’s explore winter in this mountain town together.
🐾Does it Snow in Highlands, North Carolina?
Short answer: Yes, but don’t expect miles of snow-banks like the far north. Since Highlands sits just over 4,100 feet above sea level, it does snow in winter. When humans ask me “Does North Carolina get much snow?” I always bark out “My town averages about 11-13 inches of snow a year.” Unfortunately, so few two-legged individuals speak canine nowadays, my wisdom can go unnoticed.
Here’s how I see it: some winters I wake up to a thin white blanket that sparkles and makes it fun to chase footprints. Other years, it might just be rain and one fleeting flurry. So yes, snow is on the table…but “lots of snow” depends on the year.
🐾Activities to do in Highlands, North Carolina in the Winter
Oh boy, from a dog’s-eye view, winter in Highlands is full of tail-wagging possibilities. Were I but a larger breed, I’d latch myself to a dogsled and pull a human with a team of fellow pups. However, my petite frame is better spent relaxing by the fire and perhaps making snow angels…or are they snow dogs? Worry not, for there’s a hearty helping of chilly fun for all during winter in Highlands, North Carolina.
Highlands Outpost
There’s never a dull moment when snow tubing at Highlands Outpost! I’m a bit small to sit atop an inflatable ride, but children and adults both can find great fun sliding down the slope. Highlands Outpost can make their own snow, so even if flurries aren’t falling, everyone can still have fun. What’s more, traversing the terrain is easy with their Magic Carpet lift system that’ll take you all the way to the top of the hill. Want to know how busy it is on the slope? Check out their Live Webcam before you head out. Additionally, you can purchase a snow tubing and ice skating combo for the full winter recreation experience.
Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park
The locals who live in Highlands, North Carolina, can find just about every kind of event in Kesley-Hutchinson Founders Park. During the colder months, the city sets up an ice skating rink with skates available on-site for rent and a small charge. Visit the Highlands Parks and Recreation Department website to view open hours and rental prices or call 828.526.3556 to speak with a department representative. I always dreamed of doing pirouettes and butterfly jumps but I’ll leave those tricks to my human companions. Once you’ve finished skating, there’s plenty to do around town with restaurants, shops and other local recreation to enjoy during winter in Highlands, North Carolina.
The Bascom Holiday Market
At The Bascom: Center for Visual Arts you can walk away with some delightful amenities each holiday season. No, I’m not barking about taking home an art piece, I’ve been wagging my tail all year for the Holiday Market. See, The Bascom is like its own little microcosm during winter in Highlands, North Carolina. Their markets hosts special events and workshops, plus the chance to purchase seasonal goods from local vendors. I tried to make a gingerbread workshop once, but the cookies tasted so good! Not my finest moment, but a dog can dream.
🐾A Tail of Some Trails
Spring, summer and fall all bring memorable sights to the Nantahala National Forest. However, winter in Highlands, North Carolina, is in a league of its own. The breathtaking views of ice sheets, stone and snow can drive a good dog wild; imagine how my human companions felt after witnessing winter in this region for the first time!
Callusaja Falls
If you’ve never seen a frozen waterfall, might I suggest visiting Cullasaja Falls? This 250-foot cascade of water snakes alongside North Carolina Highway 28 with a dedicated parking space toward the beginning of the falls. With the absence of greenery during the colder months, the frozen, tiered waterfall has a stately appeal unlike any other sight in Highlands. Just make sure it’s cold enough to freeze before you begin your journey, of course, the rampaging water is still a notable attraction through the chillier months.
Whiteside Mountain Trail
It’s not snowfall that gives this route its name but the steep, vertical cliffsides estimated to be hundreds of millions of years old. Truth be told, I’ve found it to be just as spectacular in winter, especially when the snow is melting and the sun glistens off solid rock. The trail is a roughly two-mile loop and can be challenging due to the stoney surface and elevation. There’s plenty of opportunities to stop and snap a pic, making this one of the most stunning sights during winter in Highlands, North Carolina.
🐾Winter Perks at The Park on Main
Ah, my fur-ever home. From November through the end of February, the best hotel around town has more than just upscale accommodations to offer visiting guests. I’ve been howlin’ up a storm at our cocoa, coffee and tea beverage options, available as part of your stay in the hotel lobby. Also speak with our front desk about any seasonal deals and specials happening during the most festive time of the year. The advent of winter is an occasion of gift giving and what better gift than The Park on Main gift cards? Don’t get put in the dog house this year, when you need a present for Christmas, The Park on Main gift cards are perfect for the season.
🐾Living a Snow-cial Life
If you’re thinking of experiencing winter in Highlands, North Carolina, or even living there for the season (for the human in your life), I say go for it. The mountains, the crisp air and the gentle snow make for a unique cold-weather experience. Bring layers and a sense of adventure. If you have a four-legged buddy like me, we’ll sniff our way through the trails together.
I hope your winter trip to Highlands turns into one of those memory-filled-with-wagging-tails moments. And if you’re staying in town, ask for the best dog-friendly spots, I know a few extra paw-friendly cafes.
Hope you have snow much fun,
Mr. Pickles🐾