Whether you’re looking for a way to kick off the new year with a blast of outdoor activity, or you’re looking for an excuse to be active and social and meet new people, there’s a little secret you ought to know. Most people in the southern states don’t get to appreciate it. Winter is alive in Greenville, SC, and it is perfect. That’s right, perfect. When people think of the southeast portion of the United States, winter activities look much different. Sun, sand, surf, some rain but not snow or ice skating, or any cold, fun, festive winter activities like the northern states.
What Are the Winters Like in Greenville, South Carolina?
The cool weather season lasts about three months, from November to March, with an average daily high temperature below 59 degrees Fahrenheit. Greenville’s coldest month typically is January, with an average low of 35 degrees and a high of 52 degrees.
From mid-December to the end of February, there is a chance of at least 1-inch snowfall. With an average snowfall of 2.7 inches, January is the snowiest month in Greenville. Wait, snow? In the south? Yes, it is true, and we’re about as prepared for it as the Midwest is for a hurricane. So grab a sled and enjoy it before it melts!
If you are planning a visit to Greenville during the winter months, be sure to keep up to date with the latest weather by checking out the Accuweather 10 day forecast.
A True Winter Wonderland Experience
The beauty of Downtown Greenville is not left unnoticed when it comes to wintertime. Country Living Magazine named Greenville “one of the Best Christmas Towns to Put on Your Holiday Bucket List.” What better way to enjoy winter outdoors than ice skating in “a Hallmark Christmas movie?”
When in Doubt, Skate It Out
Ice skating in the winter is a popular activity, and that’s why Greenville brings it to you. Sponsored by United Community Bank, Ice On Main, located in the heart of downtown Greenville, is an open-air ice skating rink.
Fun for all ages of the family, you can enjoy up to one hour of skating per ticket. While you can skate if there is space available, it is highly suggested that you pre-purchase your tickets to reserve your time slot.
What if you don’t have your own ice skates? No problem because the rental of a pair of skates is included in the ticket price. If you have your own, you are more than welcome to bring them and skate away with your ticket admission.
Ice on Main is located in front of the Courtyard Marriott in downtown Greenville, adjacent to City Hall just before Main Street and Broad Street and is open from November through January every year.
Ski Days Are the Best Days
Just a few hours north of Greenville, hidden in the rich green mountains of North Carolina, is a special place. A place where friends, families, and loved ones gather to create memories, experience laughter, enjoy outdoor recreation, and engage in nature’s beauty.
Sugar Mountain Ski Resort is where generations have learned to ski and snowboard and where families have come together to enjoy something so magical for over 50 years in the Southeast. Enjoy the incredible thrill of flying down a mountain, gliding on the top of a frozen mass of snow while gazing upon the Blue Ridge Mountains that surround you. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and tubing on Sugar Mountain.
If you can’t get your fill of snow, head a few miles up the road to Beech Mountain Ski Resort and hit the slopes there, or better yet, stay the night in a warm cozy cabin rental.
Staying Safe While Enjoying Winter Activities
Remember, if you are from the south and rarely drive in the snow or ice, pretend you’re taking your grandma to church. There’s a plate of biscuits and 2 gallons of sweet tea in glass jars in the back seat. She’s wearing a new dress and holding a crockpot full of gravy. All kidding aside, be safe out there! Here are some tips to keep in mind…
Tips for Staying Safe Outdoors in Greenville Winters
- Dress in Layers – Wear multiple layers of clothing and remove them if you become too hot. The heat trapped between the layers keeps you warm.
- Keep Dry – Wet skin has a chilling effect. A material that wicks sweat away from your body should be used for your base layer. Polypropylene and silk are popular materials. Your outermost layer should be wind and waterproof.
- Heat up Your Head, Neck, Hands, and Feet – Warm scarves, hats, mittens or gloves, and thick socks are essential for keeping your extremities toasty.
- Slow Down as You Drive – When driving on snow or ice, reduce your speed to account for the reduced traction.
- Slowly Accelerate and Decelerate – Gradually increase the gas to regain traction and avoid skids. Don’t rush to get going; instead, take your time and slow down at a stoplight. On icy roads, remember that slowing down takes longer. Increase the time it takes you to follow someone to five to six seconds. If you have to stop, this enhanced margin of safety will provide you the extra space you need.
- Know How to Use Your Brakes – Whether you have antilock brakes or not, keep your heel on the floor and apply strong, steady pressure to the brake pedal with the ball of your foot.
- If You Can Prevent It, Don’t Stop – The amount of inertia required to begin moving from a complete stop versus that required to begin moving while still rolling is vastly different. Slow down enough to continue rolling until the traffic light changes.
- If You’re Climbing a Hill, Don’t Give Up – Nothing is more unpleasant than attempting to navigate an icy road uphill. Get some inertia going on a flat surface road before tackling the hill.
While Greenville may not see a conventional winter like other parts of the country, that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy fun wintertime activities too! With a bit of planning and preparation, everyone in the family can get in on the fun and stay safe while doing so.
