Some elevations in North Carolina’s mountains receive as much as 80 inches of snow (or more) each year. But for those living in the Piedmont and Coastal regions of the Tar Heel State, there is very little chance of seeing snowfall of that magnitude over the course of the winter season. In fact, if you live in those regions, you may actually wish for a little snow every now and then. This may have been the case on January 25, 2000, when an unexpected winter storm hit the Carolinas dumping as much as 24 inches in Raleigh and other amounts from Winston-Salem all the way to the coast in a 24-hour period. Here’s more on the unforgettable Great Blizzard of 2000 in North Carolina.

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Do you remember this catastrophic Great Blizzard of 2000 in North Carolina over 20 years ago, dumping snow nearly everywhere except the mountains? Did you make the most of the situation? If so, how?

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Great Blizzard of 2000 in North Carolina

What are winters in North Carolina like?

As you've learned from reading all about the Great Blizzard of 2000 in North Carolina, winters in the Tar Heel State can be quite unpredictable. On average, however, the colder months are relatively mild for most of the state. Average temperatures reach a high of 50s, and lows can be in the 10s or 20s, especially at night and at higher elevations. For those living in the mountains, snowfall is common and due to colder temperatures, tends to stick around for a while. If you're looking to experience a winter wonderland, your best bet is Beech Mountain, the snowiest town in North Carolina. Learn more about what life is like inside the snowiest town in North Carolina.

What's the highest point in North Carolina?

The highest point in North Carolina is the top of Mount Mitchell, which just so happens to be the tallest point on the East Coast. Mount Mitchell is located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway inside the namesake Mount Mitchell State Park. The top of the mountain, which resides at 6,684 feet above sea level, is relatively easy to access thanks to the parking lot and brief, paved walk leading you to the overlook. From the top of the observation deck, it's possible to see 85 miles on a clear day! Also at the top of the mountain, you'll find restrooms and a gift shop. For those looking to spend more time at the park, there's a beautiful picnic area and plenty of trails to explore.

What are the best winter trails in North Carolina?

Most people associate the winter months with staying warm and cozy indoors. And while this is always an appealing option, there's something quite magical about bundling up and getting outside. For one, North Carolina's outdoor attractions are significantly less crowded during the winter, giving you the chance to experience the state's natural wonders without the crowds. For some excellent winter hiking, we would suggest any of the following destinations: Max Patch, Linville Gorge, Dry Falls, DuPont State Forest, Mount Mitchell (weather permitting!), Linville Falls, Roan Mountian, Bearwallow Mountain, and Pilot Mountain. Have you ever experienced any of these North Carolina hiking trails during the winter?

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