8 North Carolina Day Trips That Are Even Cooler During The Winter

The winter months can bring other states to their knees with the ice, snow, and fierce winds. And while North Carolina gets its share, it is normally mild in comparison. However, some of these activities might bring more of a challenge, such as fishing out in the ocean, horseback riding in the snow, and hiking to an icy waterfall. But instead of keeping it safe this winter, put on your warmest winter gear and test the elements on one of these cool, winter day trips in North Carolina. And afterward, reward yourself with a warm bowl of soup, a frosty beer, or a nice, calming massage. Are you ready for the possibilities?

1. Blowing Rock

You can do it! Since 1968, Appalachian Ski Mountain has expanded to 12 slopes, with staff offering lessons to newbies. Be sure to book tickets in advance for a great day on the slopes.

If you'd rather skip the slopes but still enjoy the outdoors, try some custom horseback riding at Vx3 Trail Rides at Moses Cone Park.

Enjoy these sweet animals while viewing the gorgeous mountains. An experienced trail guide will lead you through easy pathways. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance.

2. Hudson

Enjoy a winter wine-tasting at Six Waterpots Vineyard and Winery, a family-owned and operated business in the foothills of the gorgeous Blueridge Mountains. The winery is open every weekend with all other days available by appointment.

The Mitford Museum is a unique space and gift shop centered around the childhood hometown of author Jan Karon.

Here, Karon takes you back to her early years at Hudson School and her eighth-generation legacy.

3. Hendersonville

Are you ready to have a blast in the snow? You can at Moonshine Mountain Snow Tubing Park with more than 500 feet of slippery, steep fun and excitement on a first-come, first-served basis.

Bring your vintage skills, because the Appalachian Pinball Museum isn't just another museum, it is also an arcade featuring about 80 exciting games to play.

4. Old Fort

Mountain Gateway Museum and Heritage Center offer permanent and traveling exhibits exploring the old ways of mountain life and culture. Permanent exhibits offer a history of southern Appalachian culture, such as spinning, folk medicine, and moonshining.

Hire a fly-fishing guide from The Catawba Angler located in the heart of the Pisgah National Forest.

Book a trip today.

5. Troy

Located in the Historic Hotel Troy, Uwharrie Mercantile is a place to gather, celebrate, create, and love, offering a decent beverage menu, homemade baked goods, and lunch.

And don't worry about those calories as you trudge through the magnificent Uwharrie National Forest.

The 51,546 acres span three counties, offering picnic tables, benches, a shooting range, and wild, wooded hiking trails.

6. Spindale

The approximately 14-mile-long Thermal Belt Rail Trail is gorgeous this time of year and becomes a winter wonderland in the snow.

Warm up with some chicken pot pie with a buttery flaky crust at Spin City's Corner Café.

7. Wilkesboro

The Wilkes Heritage Museum was established in 1968 to restore the Old Wilkes County Jail to its original 1860 condition and bring an educational center to the community. Self-guided and guided tours are offered.

Wilkesboro Cascades Falls is magical in the ice and snow and fairly easy to get to on this 0.8-mile loop trail.

Look for seasonal road closures along the parkway before heading out.

8. Bald Head Island

In addition to Bald Head Island, Seahawk Inshore Fishing Charters are available at Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Wrightsville Beach, Wilmington, Southport, Topsail Beach, Oak Island, Ocean Isle, and Holden Beach.

Some of the best fish come out in the cold. Do you have what it takes?

Winter is one of the best times to catch tuna, striped bass, king mackerel, trout, redfish, and snappers in the cold North Carolina waters.

We hope you have fallen in love with one of these cool winter day trips. If you visit one of these enchanting places, please tell us about your trip in the comments below. And for more unique North Carolina day trips, here are 9 more to check out.