Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing – Newland, North Carolina

A True Blue Ridge Winter Playground

Tucked along Highway 181 in the mountains of Newland, Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing is one of those classic High Country winter spots that feels simple, fun, and full of mountain charm. Sitting between Morganton and Boone, it’s an easy drive up into the cool mountain air where families, couples, and groups of friends come to enjoy good old-fashioned snow fun without needing skis or snowboards.

The setting is pure Blue Ridge — rolling ridgelines, crisp winter air, and that small-town mountain hospitality that makes you feel right at home the minute you step out of your car.

What Makes the Snow Tubing Special

Jonas Ridge focuses on doing one thing and doing it well — snow tubing. Their lanes stretch roughly 400 feet, giving you a fast, smooth ride all the way down. The slope is steep enough to be exciting, but designed to feel safe and controlled, which makes it great for both kids and adults.

One of the biggest perks is the magic carpet lift. Instead of hiking back up the hill after every run, you just hop on the conveyor and ride right back to the top. That means more sliding and less sweating.

They also keep things family-friendly and straightforward. Riders use individual tubes, and everyone must be able to sit up on their own. The vibe is relaxed, organized, and welcoming — the kind of place where grandparents can watch from the side while the kids go again and again.

Operating Season & Hours

Jonas Ridge typically opens for snow tubing in mid-December and runs through the winter months as long as weather conditions allow. Because they rely on both natural cold temperatures and snowmaking, the season length can vary year to year depending on the weather.

Hours generally expand during peak times like Christmas break, Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, and Presidents’ Day weekend. Fridays and Saturdays usually offer the longest operating hours, while Sundays may run shorter sessions. Weekday hours can be limited outside of holiday periods.

Tubing is offered in timed sessions, commonly one-hour or two-hour blocks. Since schedules can shift due to weather or demand, it’s always best to check their current calendar before heading up the mountain.

Snow Tubing Prices & Discounts

Pricing typically works by session length:

• One-hour tubing session: around $30 per person

• Two-hour tubing session: around $45 per person

Children’s rates may vary slightly depending on age, and pricing can adjust during peak holiday periods.

From time to time, they may offer discounts for military members, large groups, or special promotions, so it’s worth checking when you book to see if any deals apply.

How to Book Your Tubing Session

Booking ahead is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays when sessions often sell out.

The easiest way to reserve is through their online booking system on their official website. You select your date, choose your session time, and secure your spot in advance. Phone reservations may also be available, but online booking is typically the quickest and most reliable method.

Arriving a little early for your session is a good idea so you have time to check in, sign any required waivers, and watch the brief safety orientation before your time starts.

What to Know Before You Go

Here are a few practical tips to make your visit smooth and stress-free:

Dress warmly. Waterproof gloves, winter coats, hats, and boots are strongly recommended. Even if you’re moving around, you’re still in mountain winter weather.

Everyone rides their own tube. Riders must be able to sit upright independently.

Weather matters. Because tubing depends on cold temperatures, operations can change if conditions warm up or storms move through. Always double-check the daily schedule before making the drive.

Arrive early. Parking is typically on-site and convenient, but weekends can get busy.

Snacks and warming areas. There is usually a lodge or warming area available where families can take a break, grab a snack, and warm up between runs.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, high-energy winter outing in the North Carolina mountains, Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing delivers fast slides, easy access, and that laid-back High Country feel. It’s the kind of place where you’ll probably say, “Let’s do just one more run,” about five times before you finally head home.