North Carolina Governor Highlights Ski Industry's Economic Impact

Governor Josh Stein visits Appalachian Ski Mtn. to promote winter tourism in Western North Carolina

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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North Carolina Governor Josh Stein visited Appalachian Ski Mtn. on Friday to highlight the strength of the state's ski industry and encourage travelers to consider Western North Carolina for winter vacations. Stein, joined by First Lady Anna Stein, toured the resort and spoke alongside ski industry leaders as part of a weekend visit that also included stops at Beech Mountain Ski Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort.

Why it matters

North Carolina is home to six ski resorts and offers the highest-elevation skiing in the eastern United States. The ski industry is a key part of Western North Carolina's economy, supporting jobs and small businesses alike. Governor Stein's visit aims to promote the state as a premier winter vacation destination.

The details

Stein noted that North Carolina is home to six ski resorts and offers the highest-elevation skiing in the eastern United States, with peaks rising above 5,000 feet. He said more than 780,000 skiers and snowboarders visit the state annually. Stein also highlighted North Carolina athletes competing in the Winter Olympics and Paralympics, as well as several NHL players from the Carolina Hurricanes representing their nations in men's ice hockey.

  • Governor Stein visited Appalachian Ski Mtn. on Friday, February 14, 2026.
  • The governor's weekend visit also included stops at Beech Mountain Ski Resort and Sugar Mountain Resort.

The players

Governor Josh Stein

The 75th governor of North Carolina, serving since 2021.

Anna Stein

The First Lady of North Carolina, accompanying the governor on his visit.

Brad Moretz

The president and owner of Appalachian Ski Mtn.

Kimberley Jochl

The president of the North Carolina Ski Areas Association, a nonprofit trade group representing the state's six ski areas.

Ryan Costin

The president of Beech Mountain Resort.

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What they’re saying

“We are the ski capital of the South, and we really earned the title over the last few weeks.”

— Governor Josh Stein

“In the spirit of the Winter Olympics, I'm here to urge everyone to consider Western North Carolina for your next winter vacation.”

— Governor Josh Stein

“Western North Carolina is open for business, and thousands of people are choosing our state as their vacation destination. The ski industry is a key part of Western North Carolina's economy, supporting jobs and small businesses alike. I encourage everyone to rediscover the unforgettable mountains of North Carolina for your next vacation destination, no matter the season.”

— Governor Josh Stein

“If people can't get here, there's nothing more fundamental than that.”

— Brad Moretz, President and Owner, Appalachian Ski Mtn.

“Our organization's mission is to foster, stimulate and promote skiing and snow sports, as well as safety in skiing and snow sports in North Carolina.”

— Kimberley Jochl, President, North Carolina Ski Areas Association

What’s next

Governor Stein's weekend visit to the state's ski resorts is part of a broader effort to promote winter tourism in Western North Carolina. The governor is expected to continue highlighting the economic impact of the ski industry and encouraging travelers to visit the region.

The takeaway

North Carolina's ski industry is a significant economic driver for the state, supporting jobs and small businesses in the Western North Carolina region. Governor Stein's visit underscores the state's commitment to promoting winter tourism and showcasing the unique attractions and outdoor recreation opportunities available in the mountains.