Johnnyvw, an advanced welcome to the Raleigh area!! I live in Wake Forest and work quite a bit in Raleigh. I try to day trip or overnight to Sugar at least once a week. Sugar has the best terrain to me. Beech is just not worth the extra bit of a drive, but can be okay if a change of scenery is needed.
As David mentioned above, the snow guns can be a real nuisance but it goes with the territory skiing in NC. On Sunday night I will check the weather forecast and try to pick a day when the temp looks like it might get above freezing in hopes they'll turn the guns off by mid morning and the snow will soften up nicely. Had decent luck last year with my day selections.
Hey David, I look forward to meeting up with you again this season.
Dr. Mark posts on here occasionally too, he skis Sugar about every day.