Who says only kids have snow days?
In the Mountain State, winter means the rolling hills transform into a playground for adults (with plenty for the kids, too.)
Explore everything from simple sledding to world-class skiing and snowboarding in the mountain wilderness. Here are the best winter adventures:
Skiing & More
1. Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Best for: A remote winter wilderness escape
Tucked into the beauty of the Mountain State’s wildest landscapes, Canaan Valley Resort State Park’s snowy scenery is lined with 47 carved out trails for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The less adventurous can swoosh down the bunny hills on inner tubes, or ice skate.
2. Winterplace Resort
Best for: A romantic, relaxing retreat
Enjoy an extra-long day of Winterplace tubing, skiing or stunting in the snowboarding terrain parks, exploring into the moonlit evening hours. Then stow away in a cozy cabin, or in the luxury of the nearby Resort at Glade Springs, where you can relax at the spa or sprawling leisure center.
3. Snowshoe Mountain
Best for: An all-inclusive getaway
Enjoy 1,500 vertical feet of Snowshoe Mountain skiing, snowboarding, inner tubing, freestyle terrain park stunts, and backcountry snowmobile or RZR rides. Kids can play in the outdoor pool (yes, in the winter— it’s heated!) while you relax in the sauna or hot tub. Stroll the streets of the mountaintop village for unique dining and shopping.
4. Timberline Four Season Resort
Best for: Wild play and fun nightlife
Take the finely groomed paths or trails less traveled, through the untamed, wooded snow glades. Timberline has slopes for all skill levels, from short, simple runs to some of the most advanced trails in the region. After conquering the winter wilderness, enjoy the eclectic live entertainment at Timbers Pub & Fireside Grill.
5. Oglebay Resort
Best for: A holiday trip with the family
Circle around Oglebay Resort’s fire pits to share tales as the sun sets on a day of skiing the slopes and boarding over the snow jumps. Add a holiday sparkle to your little ones’ eyes with the intricate Festival of Lights displays illuminating the mountain, the playful critters at the Good Zoo, and skating at the nearby ice rink.
Cross-country Skiing & Snowshoeing
6. White Grass
Best for: A budget-friendly vacation
Miles of carefully manicured, open mountain trail— all for you! Near the lively small towns of Thomas & Davis, White Grass offers big excitement for only a little investment. Never cross-country skied before? A $6 lesson will teach you all you need to know in 15 minutes!
7. Pipestem Resort State Park
Best for: Experienced cross-country skiers
Mother Nature is the only one who grooms Pipestem’s 7 rugged ski trails! Roam the golf course or the rim of the gorge in their winter beauty before relaxing at the lodge or in your own personal cottage.
8. Alpine Lake Resort
Best for: Carefree cross-country trekking
Tuck into a remote Alpine lakeside chalet for a leisurely cross-country skiing or snowshoeing escape. Enjoy the calm mountain mornings and stunning lakeside scenery from this secluded haven.
9.Elk River Touring Center
Best for: A remote, scenic ski trip
Have you driven along the stunning Highland Scenic Highway? Come enjoy it as a winter wonderland. The untamed trails criss-cross the snow-blanketed route along the National Forest grounds. Stay on the farmstead at the quaint mountain inn.
10. Blackwater Falls State Park
Best for: A unique winter view
Did you know the powerful falls at Blackwater State Park freeze completely during the winter? Take in the marvel of this frozen wonder with a visit to the full-service sledding and cross-country ski center.
The winter fun extends beyond the slopes. Find all the best winter events, activities and more in the Mountain State at gotowv.com/winter.