Alabama Ski Resort: Complete Guide to Cloudmont 2026

Alabama’s Ski Resort: A Family Passion Project on Lookout Mountain

Cloudmont Ski Resort is more than just a ski area; it’s a testament to resilience and a love for winter sports. Opened in 1970, the resort is a family-owned passion project located in Mentone, Alabama, perched atop the scenic Lookout Mountain. It began not as a ski destination, but as a family golf course. The idea of skiing in Alabama was born from a desire to bring the mountain to life during the colder months.

This community-driven spirit is what has kept Cloudmont going for decades. It’s a place where volunteers often help prepare the slopes, and the focus is on sharing the experience rather than maximizing revenue. The resort’s history is one of overcoming challenges, particularly the warm Southern winters. After a five-year hiatus due to unfavorable weather, Cloudmont made a triumphant return in January 2025, much to the delight of its dedicated fanbase.

As the southernmost ski resort east of the Mississippi, Cloudmont holds a special place in the landscape of American skiing. It’s a story of perseverance, proving that with enough snowmaking and community spirit, you can create a winter paradise in the most unexpected of places.

What Makes Cloudmont Different: A Beginner’s Paradise

Cloudmont isn’t trying to be Aspen. Its charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility, making it the perfect destination for first-timers and families. The resort is designed to be unintimidating, offering a friendly environment where anyone can learn to ski or snowboard without the pressure of a massive mountain.

The Terrain and Facilities

The resort features two 1,000-foot slopes with a gentle 150-foot vertical drop. This modest incline is ideal for learning the basics of turning and stopping. The entire 10+ acre skiable area is covered by a robust snowmaking system, ensuring a consistent surface even when natural snowfall is scarce. To get back to the top, Cloudmont uses two “pony lifts,” which are surface tows that pull skiers up the hill. It’s a classic, old-school experience that adds to the resort’s unique character.

Who Should Ski Here

Cloudmont is tailor-made for those new to winter sports. It’s a place where you can fall, laugh, and learn without feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a fantastic option for families with young children or anyone looking for a casual day on the snow. Seasoned experts seeking black diamond thrills won’t find them here, but they will find a refreshingly authentic and relaxed atmosphere.

The Vibe

Expect a casual, friendly, and community-focused environment. The small, family-owned nature of the resort means you’re more likely to be greeted with a smile than a long lift line. It’s a place that values the experience over amenities, offering a genuine slice of Southern hospitality on the snow.

How to Plan Your Alabama Ski Trip: Prices, Hours, and Best Times

Planning a trip to Cloudmont requires a different approach than a trip to a large commercial resort. Here’s the practical information you need to make your visit a success.

Operating Season and Hours

Cloudmont’s season typically runs from December through February, but it is entirely dependent on the weather. Cold temperatures are necessary for snowmaking, so the resort may open and close with little notice. Always check their official channels before you go.

Pricing Information

Pricing at Cloudmont is generally more affordable than at larger resorts, making it an excellent value. As rates can change, it is always best to contact the resort directly for the most current information.

Note: These are estimates based on historical data. Please confirm current pricing with Cloudmont Ski Resort.

How to Check Conditions

This is the most critical step in planning your trip. Since operations are so weather-dependent, you must check the conditions on the day you plan to ski. The best and most reliable source of information is the resort’s official Facebook pages: “Cloudmont Ski & Golf” and “Fans of Cloudmont.” These pages are updated in real-time with opening status, hours, and snow conditions. There is no webcam, so Facebook is your eye on the mountain.

What to Bring

Cloudmont offers equipment rentals, including boots ranging from a child’s size 10 to an adult size 13. Rentals cannot be reserved in advance, so it’s first-come, first-served. For clothing, dress in layers. Even in Alabama, it can be cold on the slopes. Waterproof pants, a warm jacket, gloves, and a hat are essential. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses, as the sun reflecting off the snow can be intense.

Location, Directions, and Accommodations Near Cloudmont

Cloudmont is conveniently located for a day trip or weekend getaway from several major Southern cities.

How to Get to Cloudmont

The resort’s address is 721 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984. It’s a scenic drive up Lookout Mountain. The nearest major airport is Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM).

Where to Stay

For the full experience, consider staying in one of the slopeside chalets or cabins at Cloudmont, which are available for rent year-round. The nearby town of Mentone also offers a variety of charming cabin rentals. For more conventional lodging, the city of Fort Payne is a short drive away and has several hotels and motels.

Making It a Weekend Trip

Extend your visit and explore the stunning natural beauty of the area. DeSoto Falls and Little River Canyon National Preserve are both nearby and offer incredible scenery. The town of Mentone itself is known for its artsy, rustic charm and has several unique restaurants and shops worth exploring.

More Than Snow: What Else Cloudmont Offers

Cloudmont is a year-round destination. When the snow melts, the resort transforms back into the Saddle Rock Golf Course. The property is also connected to the Shady Grove Dude Ranch, offering horseback riding and other outdoor adventures. The year-round cabin rentals make it a great base for exploring Lookout Mountain in any season. This multi-faceted identity is a key part of Cloudmont’s story, showcasing its deep roots in the region’s outdoor recreation culture.

Alabama vs. Other Southeastern Ski Resorts: Is It Worth It?

How does skiing in Alabama stack up against other options in the Southeast? Here’s an honest comparison.

The Honest Comparison

Resorts in North Carolina (like Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain) and Tennessee (Ober Gatlinburg) offer more vertical drop and a wider variety of terrain. They are larger operations with more amenities and a more traditional ski resort feel.

Why Choose Alabama?

So, why ski at Cloudmont? The answer lies in its unique advantages. It is significantly more accessible for those in the Deep South, cutting down on travel time. The smaller scale and gentle slopes make it far less intimidating for beginners. It’s also a more affordable option, with lower prices for lift tickets and rentals. The novelty of skiing in Alabama is an experience in itself, and the authentic, community-driven atmosphere is something you won’t find at larger, more commercialized resorts.

When to Choose Elsewhere

If you are an advanced skier looking for challenging terrain, or if you need the certainty of a long ski vacation with guaranteed conditions, a larger resort in North Carolina or Tennessee might be a better fit. But for a day of fun, a first-time experience, or a unique weekend trip, Cloudmont is an unbeatable choice.

Pro Tips for Skiing in Alabama

To make the most of your visit to Cloudmont, keep these insider tips in mind:

1. Check Facebook Religiously: Operations are unpredictable. Don’t make the drive without confirming they are open.
2. Go on Weekdays if Possible: Weekends can get busy. Weekday night skiing is often less crowded.
3. Embrace the Novelty: It’s not Aspen, and that’s the whole point. Enjoy the unique experience.
4. Bring Patience: This is a small, often volunteer-driven operation. Go with the flow and enjoy the relaxed pace.
5. Take a Lesson: It’s the perfect, low-pressure environment to learn the fundamentals.
6. Explore Mentone: Make it a weekend trip and enjoy the local charm and natural beauty.
7. Join the Community: Look into the Birmingham and Huntsville ski clubs to connect with other local skiers.
8. Book Accommodations Early: Slopeside lodging is limited and can fill up quickly.
9. Have Realistic Expectations: You’re going for the fun, the story, and the experience, not for epic powder days.
10. Night Skiing is Magical: There’s something special about skiing under the lights in Alabama.

Alabama Ski Resort FAQ

1. Does Alabama have skiing?

Yes, Cloudmont Ski Resort in Mentone is Alabama’s only ski area. It has been operating seasonally since 1970.

2. Is Cloudmont good for beginners?

Absolutely. With its gentle slopes, small size, and friendly atmosphere, Cloudmont is one of the best places in the Southeast to learn to ski or snowboard.

3. How much does it cost to ski at Cloudmont?

While prices can vary, you can generally expect to pay between $40-$60 for a day pass and $25-$40 for equipment rentals. It’s always best to check with the resort for the most current pricing.

4. When is Cloudmont Ski Resort open?

The season typically runs from December to February, but it is highly dependent on cold weather for snowmaking. Check their Facebook page for daily updates on hours and openings.

5. Can you rent equipment at Cloudmont?

Yes, the resort offers a range of ski and snowboard rentals. Equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance.

6. How do I check if Cloudmont is open today?

The most reliable way to check the current status is by visiting the resort’s official Facebook pages, “Cloudmont Ski & Golf” and “Fans of Cloudmont.” They provide real-time updates on conditions and operating hours.

7. Where does it snow near Alabama?

Besides Cloudmont, the closest and most reliable snow is typically found at ski resorts in North Carolina (like Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain) and Tennessee (Ober Gatlinburg).

8. What are the closest ski resorts to Alabama?

Cloudmont is the only ski resort within Alabama. The next closest options are in Tennessee and North Carolina, which are generally a 4-6 hour drive from central Alabama.

9. Is there a webcam at Cloudmont?

Currently, there is no public webcam. The resort uses its Facebook pages to post photos and videos of the current conditions.

10. What else can you do at Cloudmont besides skiing?

Cloudmont is a year-round destination. In the warmer months, you can enjoy golf at the Saddle Rock Golf Course, go horseback riding at the Shady Grove Dude Ranch, and stay in their cabins or chalets.

Final Thoughts: Why Alabama’s Ski Resort Deserves Your Visit

Cloudmont Ski Resort is a charming anomaly, a place that defies expectations. It isn’t a world-class ski destination, and it doesn’t pretend to be. Instead, it offers something more authentic: a fun, accessible, and affordable way for families and beginners in the South to experience the magic of snow sports.

It’s a place where the joy of skiing is stripped down to its essentials—the thrill of sliding on snow, the laughter of a first-timer, and the warmth of a community that keeps the dream alive. So, the next time you’re looking for a unique winter adventure, don’t just look to the mountains of Colorado or Vermont. Look to the heart of Alabama. You might be surprised by what you find.

Ready to plan your trip? Check Cloudmont’s Facebook page for the latest conditions, and get ready to create a story you’ll be telling for years to come. You skied in Alabama. And it was awesome.