Winter in the North Carolina High Country isn’t just for skiers. It’s for anyone who loves laughter echoing through the mountains. And when you’re staying with Elk Creek Rentals, snow tubing is one of the easiest (and most fun) ways to play in the snow.
Whether you’re planning a family trip or a couples’ getaway, here’s your guide to the best snow tubing parks near Banner Elk, plus everything you need to know before you go.
- Hawksnest Snow Tubing Park – Seven Devils, NC
Just a short drive from Banner Elk, Hawksnest is the largest snow tubing park in the Southeast and it feels like it. With more than 30 lanes ranging from 400 to 1,000 feet long, it’s big, scenic, and seriously fun.
You’ll ride a magic carpet lift to the top (no hiking necessary), then pick your lane and fly down the mountain. It’s an adrenaline rush that’s safe for families and groups. There’s even a viewing deck for non-tubers who just want to sip cocoa and watch the fun.
Good to know:
- Sessions run 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Arrive early to check in (Sessions often sell out).
- Kids must be at least 3 years old to participate.
Local tip: This park is very popular on weekends and holidays. We recommend booking ahead and grabbing an early morning session for fewer crowds and faster runs.
- Sugar Mountain Resort Tubing Park – Sugar Mountain, NC
If you’re staying near Sugar Mountain, the resort’s tubing park is a must. It sits just below the main ski slopes and offers easy access, especially for families who may have skiers or snowboarders in the group.
The lanes are wide and beginner-friendly, with a conveyor lift to take you back up. Sessions are about an hour and a half, and kids five and older can tube solo. There’s also an ice-skating rink nearby if you want to turn it into a full winter day.
Good to know:
- The park typically opens in mid-December, weather permitting.
- Evening sessions under the lights are magical.
- Parking is available right at the tubing hill.
Local tip: Stop by the nearby Sugar Mountain Public Golf Course area afterward. It’s transformed into a winter wonderland when covered in snow, and great for quick family photos.
3. Beech Mountain Resort Tubing Hill – Beech Mountain, NC
Just a few minutes up the road, Beech Mountain Resort turns into a snowy alpine village each winter, complete with a tubing hill that’s perfect for families.
The park features multiple lanes and its own magic carpet lift, and because it’s part of the main resort area, you’ll have easy access to restrooms, hot chocolate stands, and the Beech Mountain Brewing Co. — a great place to warm up afterward.
Good to know:
- Height minimums apply (usually around 42″).
- Sessions often sell out on weekends.
- Helmets are recommended for younger riders.
Local tip: Check out the Beech Mountain sledding hill just down the road if you have younger kids not quite ready for tubing… it’s free and family-friendly.
What to Bring for Snow Tubing
Even if you’re not skiing, tubing means you’ll spend plenty of time in the snow. Here’s what to pack so everyone stays warm and dry:
✅ Waterproof jacket & snow pants
✅ Insulated gloves or mittens
✅ Warm socks & waterproof boots
✅ A change of clothes for afterward
✅ Sunglasses or goggles (yes, even on cloudy days!)
Bonus tip: Bring a plastic bag for wet gear. This will keep your car dry for the ride back to your cabin.
Warm Up Back at Elk Creek Rentals
After a few hours of tubing thrills, there’s nothing better than returning to a cozy cabin at Elk Creek Rentals.
Pour a mug of cocoa, thaw out by the fireplace, and swap stories from the day. Many rentals feature hot tubs, mountain views, and outdoor firepits (perfect for unwinding after your snow day).
From family adventures to romantic winter weekends, Elk Creek Rentals puts you close to all the action while giving you space to relax when the day’s done.
Plan Your Winter Getaway
Ready to slide into some winter fun?
Explore cozy cabins near Banner Elk at ElkCreekRentals.com and start planning your tubing weekend in the North Carolina High Country.
