Discover snowshoeing in the backcountry terrain of Almost Heaven this winter

West Virginia’s trails are some of the finest on the east coast – leading visitors to overlooks that reveal the Mountain State’s jaw-dropping beauty. When the snow begins to fall, hikers can experience the backcountry of West Virginia in a unique but traditional fashion: snowshoeing. West Virginia is home to several parks that offer beginner-to-intermediate-level trails perfect for winter exploration.

Pipestem Resort State Park

Situated in the mountains of southern West Virginia, Pipestem Resort State Park offers visitors 15 miles of pristine, ungroomed trails to explore. With more than 4,000 acres of land, with most of that being forest and trails, Pipestem is a snowshoer’s oasis. The park features seven cross-country trails ranging from beginner to intermediate level. The resort’s golf course is also open to snowshoers if they’re looking to learn the ropes before exploring a real trail.

Canaan Valley Resort State Park

Canaan Valley Resort State Park is located in beautiful Tucker County and boasts 18 miles of ungroomed trails with numerous terrain types. There are nine marked trails that are each under three miles, and most of them are beginner-level trails. One of the most popular trails leads visitors to Bald Knob which sits at an elevation of 4,308 feet and features beautiful scenic views.

White Grass

Not far from Canaan Valley Resort State Park, visitors will find White Grass. White Grass boasts more than 37 miles of maintained trails ranging from elevations of 3,220 feet to 4,463 feet. The park receives 160 inches of snow annually, which makes it perfect for anyone interested in exploring wild West Virginia terrain during the winter.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park is just short drive from White Grass in the town of Davis. The park is home to 20 miles of relatively beginner-level trails. There are 18 total trails, but 10 of them are designated for cross-country skiing. Blackwater Falls is one of the most iconic locations in the state, so you’re guaranteed to find incredible views throughout the park.

Take your hike to the next level on your upcoming winter getaway. The Mountain State has incredible backcountry waiting to be explored.

So what are you waiting for?

This post was last updated on March 17, 2022