There’s still time! 4 winter trips to squeeze in
Never fear, winter people! There is still time for winter sports in the Mountain State. In case you haven’t already, here are 4 fun trips that you can still cram into your winter schedule:
1. Night Ski at Winterplace
Winterplace Resort is a wonderful place to learn how to ski or snowboard. The majority of their trails are beginner and intermediate and perfect for those new to winter sports. It’s also the only resort in the state that is able to cover all of its slopes with artificial snow from its blowers.
With the longest ski days in the southeast, nearly all of Winterplace’s runs are lined with high-powered lights. This means that you can ski on fresh, soft snow to your heart’s content into the nighttime.
2. Cross Country at White Grass
White Grass is a rarity: a full-service ski resort, but for the more laid-back cross country skiing.
They’ve got a rental and ski shop, a great restaurant/bar, and more than 15 miles of groomed trails for all levels and styles of cross-country skiers– beginner to expert, skate to telemark. And if you don’t mind leaving the groomers, the resort is adjacent to a huge complex of wilderness trails in the Dolly Sods area.
White Grass’s “snow farmers” are experts at getting the most out of the late season snow. With a series of wind fences and groomers, they keep snow on the ground usually well into March.
3. Winter Hike in the New River Gorge
New River Gorge National Park has plenty of trails that are easily hikeable in the winter, with the right equipment.
Even if there’s just 6 inches of snow on the ground, the 3-mile Endless Wall loop is flat and open enough to get around. If there is slightly less snow, the 5-mile round-trip hike out to Long Point will be an expedition to remember.
You and your hiking partners will almost certainly have either of these trails to yourself. And, if you’ve never seen the astounding views of the 1000-foot New River Gorge as it’s coated in wintery white, you’re missing out. Dress warm, and don’t get too close to slippery cliff edges.
4. Take in the High Country at Snowshoe
Last and certainly not least is Snowshoe.
Snowshoe, West Virginia’s biggest and highest ski resort, is beautiful year-round but especially during winter time. With nearly 1,500 feet of elevation drop, snowmaking capabilities and 41 trails for skiing and snowboarding, this will most likely be Old Man Winter’s last snowy holdout in West Virginia.
After spending the day on the slopes, enjoy all the après-ski activities Snowshoe has to offer. Explore the Snowshoe Village and shop around at stores like the Pocahontas Supply Co. and High Country Clothing Co. Or have a bite to eat at one of the resort’s unique dining options.
Ski, stay, and enjoy it, because spring is right around the corner!
This post was last updated on March 16, 2022