A Winter Getaway in the Potomac Highlands

Encompassing the Allegheny Mountains and Monongahela National Forest, the Potomac Highlands region is home to some of the most spectacular spots West Virginia has to offer. Especially stunning in the winter, don’t miss taking this four hour journey to witness magical views, cozy stays and thrilling slopes.

Snowshoe

Begin your Almost Heaven escape in the oasis of everything winter at Snowshoe Mountain. Perched at nearly 5,000 feet, this hub of adventure offers everything from snowmobiling and sleigh rides to heated outdoor swimming and nighttime skiing and snowboarding. For those looking for more of a slow-paced trip, the village overflowing with shopping and dining options makes for a perfect day of leisure. For an extra special seasonal experience, stay at the family-owned Corduroy Inn and find yourself in the midst of a Hallmark movie.

Cass Scenic Railroad

Visit Cass Scenic Railroad State Park for a unique winter expedition aboard a vintage diesel-powered passenger train. Journey along the Greenbrier River in a fully decorated and heated coach. Children will receive a special surprise during their ride and might even catch a visit from Santa afterwards. During the evening, stroll through the town of Cass and the Greenbrier River Trail and watch the dark sky come alive with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights.

Seneca Rocks

Ascending almost 900 feet, the magnificent formation of Seneca Rocks has become a renowned destination amongst rock climbers worldwide. For those more comfortable on the ground, the 1.3-mile uphill hike gives way to sights of snow-covered mountains as far as the eye can see. Check out the nearby cabins at Smoke Hole Caverns, if you’d like a pleasant place to lay your head.

Canaan Valley

Discover a winter wonderland all season long in the Canaan Valley, an upland valley with hidden gems tucked in every turn. Explore this slice of Almost Heaven on skis with 1,000 feet of vertical drops at Timberline Mountain. Skiing, snowboarding and tubing are all offered at Canaan Valley Resort State Park, along with ice-skating, hiking and a welcoming lodge. Stop by Blackwater Falls State Park to take in sights of gorgeous, and often frozen, falls. Trek through the beautiful backcountry of the park when cross-country skiing or catch serious speed on the sled-run, the longest sled run on the East Coast.

Wardensville

End your trip in the tiny yet stellar town of Wardensville. Less than a 2-hour drive from D.C., the charming streets continue to draw in guests from near and far. Find the perfect Christmas gift at the Lost River Trading Post, stocked with a variety of locally-made gifts, American wines and hand-crafted beers. Warm up with a speciality latte, cappuccino or traditional cup of joe from Drifter’s Cafe. Find the perfect read for any age at WordPlay, the town’s beloved bookstore that’s packed full of games, puzzles and an atmosphere that will make you want to sit and stay awhile. Treat yourself to a mouth-watering pastry just up the street at the Wardensville Garden Market.

Learn about all the perfect Almost Heaven spots to retreat to this winter season.

This post was last updated on October 23, 2023