Banner Elk has been named a Best Ski Town in North America for 2022, as determined by USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice awards.

Banner Elk finished fifth in the ranking of 10 best ski towns. The awards contest began with nominations of 20 ski towns across North America by a panel of industry experts.

Top 10 winners emerged four weeks later following an extensive public vote conducted at 10Best.com. Voting received promotion across USA TODAY Travel Media Group’s digital and mobile products, as well as via social media.

Of the 10 best ski towns chosen, Banner Elk was the only one in the South, and one of only three on the East Coast. The Town of Banner Elk earned recognition by the experts and voters because of “excellent mountain terrain ideal for skiing, and several local attractions and events that invite visitors into the community."

USA TODAY’s 10Best also highlighted Banner Elk Winery, the town’s excellent culinary scene, and nearby attractions like Hawknest Aipline & Snowtubing Park.

“Skiers and snowboarders have come here for more than 50 years because of all the fun we offer on and off the slopes, and it’s quite an honor to be named one of the best ski towns in North America,” said Nancy Owen, director of the Banner Elk Tourism Authority. “We are proud to be located between Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort, two great ski resorts that continuously upgrade and improve their facilities across the board.”

Source: Town of Banner Elk