Hit the slopes with discounted rates at Beech Mountain Resort

Beech Mountain Resort is about a five-hour drive from Atlanta.

Beech Mountain Resort is about a five-hour drive from Atlanta.

With daylight saving time around the corner, it follows that spring is upon us. If you haven't made it to the slopes yet, then you're in luck, because Beech Mountain Resort in North Carolina will keep the snow on the slopes through the end of March, thanks to a late-arriving winter.

"We enter March with ski peak-season conditions and 100 percent of our terrain open," said resort general manager Ryan Costin. "March is generally a good time for skiing because of sunny, clear days followed by cool nights that allow us to maintain snow packs and provide snow-making."

Beech Mountain, located in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, is just a five-hour drive from Atlanta.

The other advantages of taking your ski trip this time of year are shorter lift lines and reduced rates. Beginning March 7 and continuing through the end of the ski season, Beech Mountain Resort will offer 25 percent off lift tickets and equipment rentals on a daily basis. Discounts of up to 25 percent off are available for overnight stays.

New to Beech Mountain Resort this season is an extra long slope, about 700 feet, for snow tubing. It's suitable for all ages.

It's also a great time to learn to ski. Beech Mountain Resort is offering two ski-school packages available Monday through Thursday. Children ages 8-12 receive a day lift ticket, ski rental and first-time beginner skiing lesson for $33, and adults receive the same package for $46.

For info on spring skiing, visit www.BeechMountainResort.com. For lodging info, go to www.BeechMtn.com, or call 800-468-5506