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There are multiple ski resorts from which to choose. I normally go to Sugar, as it has longer vertical drop so I get more skiing in per lift ride, and is the one I would recommend on your first trip. If Sugar is overcrowded, though, I head down the road to Beech. There is also Appalachian, but I haven't skied there before.
The snow quality can vary greatly in ski resorts in this part of the country. I've been skiing at Sugar when a fresh 3-4" fell, and it was great. I've also skied when the temperature was in the mid-40s and the snow was mostly slush. All the ski resorts in that area blow snow anytime the weather permits. I wouldn't sweat it - the snow is good enough to ski on, especially if it is cold enough so that it doesn't turn into slush.
You are likely already planning on this, but make sure you get a ski lesson for the teenager. Do not try to teach her/him yourself - you will both be miserable. Get all of your "advanced" skiing out of your system while they are in the lesson, and when it is over spend some time on easier greens with them. That way, you both have a good time.
I don't have any suggestions on a hotel - I've only done day trips for skiing in the NC mountains.
Bad weather for skiing in NC next week. Doesn't look like it's supposed to get below freezing any next week so I don't think they'll be able to make much snow. I don't really know how that works. Check the forecast before you go. Wintergreen (VA) and Snowshoe (WV) also look to be expecting warm temps. I'd plan to go when the weather is forecasted to at least be below freezing overnight so you can be sure they'll make snow.
I think Appalachian is generally a well-regarded slope for beginners and intermediates. It could be a good place for your teen to learn. Beech and Sugar offer more challenges.
Where are there places to go skiing in the area, for those who don't necessarily care if things are perfect, just newbies who want to go ski a bit, any particular recommendations, closer the better?
The ones mentioned already — Beech Mt, Sugar Mt, Appalachian Ski Mt are all the closest near Boone and Banner Elk. Not too much farther away is Wintergreen in VA and a little bit further is Snowshoe in WV. Cataloochee is near Asheville/Maggie Valley and a little farther than the Boone/Banner Elk resorts from us here in the Triangle.
just update: My family went to Hawksnest and Appalachian Ski last weekend. Snow is not good, but playable: ) I took a close look of the snow, it's not real snow, but small ball of frozen ice. So it's man made snow. It's ok for our first timer skier.
We live in Blowing Rock which is just 20 minutes from App Ski resort. it's a little bit expensive than summer.
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