Weather on Sugar Mountain differs much from lower elevations a short drive away. Throughout the year, temperatures are 15 to 20 degrees lower than the piedmont region of North Carolina – including Charlotte, Greensboro and Raleigh. Summer high temperatures rarely reach 80 degrees. We are located in the Appalachian temperate rainforest – with a cool and moist climate.
The Village of Sugar Mountain itself has a 1,200 ft elevation difference from the base of the mountain to the summit, so weather usually changes drastically with a 2-mile drive up to the highest neighborhoods. (Photo above: The summit of Sugar Mountain at the top of the ski slopes)
Due to the big difference in altitude, Sugar Mountain has two weather forecasts by local favorite Ray’s Weather:
- Sugar Mountain Forecast @ 4,100 ft (Ski Lodge, Golf/Tennis)
- Sugar Mountain Forecast @ 5,300 ft (Summit, top of ski slopes)
Sugar Mountain is most well known for its skiing and other winter sports. Average snowfall each winter averages around 50 inches at the ski lodge to 70 inches on the summit. First snows fall as early as late October and falls as late as mid May. Our average rainfall is 55 inches.
Winter Weather Tips
Winter conditions often change rapidly with sudden drops in the temperatures (Nov-March). A rainy day could change quickly into heavy snow and high winds. Roads often become slippery in a matter of minutes. During winter weather events, 4-wheel drive or chains are required for travel on much of the mountain. Our village road crews prioritize clearing Sugar Mountain Drive from the main entrance to the village on NC 184 to the ski resort lodge parking. Since the lodge is located at the base of the mountain (around 4,100 ft elevation), the higher sections of the mountain with many homes and condos see more treacherous roads. If you are staying above 4,500 feet, expect more snow and ice. See our Winter Driving Tips.
Also see: Ski Resort Guide | Beginner Ski Tips
By the Season: Average Temperatures
Here are the monthly high and low temperatures for each month at 4,100 feet elevation. Subtract 5 degrees from each for the top of the mountain!
Winter: Be prepared for rapidly changing weather. Don’t be surprised if it is 50 degrees one minute, followed by a 20 degree drop with snow within an hour. The top half of the mountain (above 4,800 feet elevation) will be windier and colder than the location of the ski lodge. If you are riding the lift to the top of the slopes, expect the temperature to drop 5-10 degrees and the wind speed to increase. Note: 4-wheel drive is often required when driving on the mountain. See our Winter Guide for Things to Do.
Dec 29 / 44 (average low / high in Fahrenheit)
Jan 25 / 41
Feb 27 / 44
Also see: Winter Driving Tips!
Spring: While snow is less frequent, we have seen snow as late as Mother’s Day Weekend in recent years. If you live in the area, we suggest you wait until Memorial Day to plant any flowers! Leaves on trees and wildflowers don’t arrive until May due to our elevation. See our Spring Guide for Things to Do.
March 33 / 51 (average low / high in Fahrenheit)
April 42 / 60
May 50 / 67
Summer: Beat the heat at Sugar! If you are visiting, be sure to bring a sweater or hoodie for cool nights. Be prepared for sudden showers and storms, often during the mid afternoon. See our Summer Guide for Things to Do.
June 57 / 73 (average low / high in Fahrenheit)
July 60 / 75
Aug 59 / 74
Fall: Find the first fall colors in the Sugar Mountain area. Leaves begin changing by mid September with peak color during the first two weeks of October. It’s not uncommon to receive our first snow flakes by Halloween. See our Fall Guide for Things to Do.
Sept 55 / 70 (average low / high in Fahrenheit)
Oct 45 / 61
Nov 36 / 52
Ski Resort Annual Reports (See our Ski Insider’s Guide)
- 2022-2023: Open November 14, 2022 – March 30, 2023 • Skier Days: 136 • Total Snowfall: 36″
- 2021-2022: Open November 15, 2021 – March 27, 2022 • Skier Days: 127 • Total Snowfall: 56.7″
- 2020-2021: Open November 19, 2020 – March 28, 2021 • Skier Days: 123 • Total Snowfall: 80″
- 2019-2020: Open November 9, 2019 – March 17, 2020 • Skier Days: 130 • Total Snowfall: 64.2″
- 2018-2019: Open November 11, 2018 – March 31, 2019 • Skier Days: 141 LC • Total Snowfall: 66.8″
- 2017-2018: Open November 20, 2017 – April 1, 2018 • Skier Days: 127 • Total Snowfall: 75″
- 2016-2017: Open November 21, 2016 – March 20, 2017 • Skier Days: 114 • Total Snowfall: 44.3″
- 2015-2016: Open November 15, 2015 – March 23, 2016 • Skier Days: 102 • Total Snowfall: 66.7″
- 2014-2015: Open November 2, 2014 – March 29, 2015 • Skier Days: 146 • Total Snowfall: 77.1″
- 2013-2014: Open November 13, 2013 – March 30, 2014 • Skier Days: 138 • Total Snowfall: 86.5″
- 2012-2013: Open October 31, 2012 – March 31, 2013 • Skier Days: 144 • Total Snowfall: 120″
- 2011-2012: Opening: November 12, 2011 – March 14, 2012 • Skier Days: 110 • Total Snowfall: 46.5″
- 2010-2011: Opening: November 6, 2010 – March 23, 2011 • Skier Days: 126 • Total Snowfall: 130″
- 2009-2010: Opening: November 27, 2009 – March 28, 2010 • Skier Days: 122 • Total Snowfall: 136″
Driving in the snow and ice? See: Winter Driving Tips!