With more than 250 skiable acres, a vertical drop of over 1000 feet, and a peak elevation of more than 4800 feet, Snowshoe Mountain is one of the best ski resorts in the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic. No wonder it was voted, by the Washington Post, as one of the top places to have a White Christmas. Averaging about 180 inches of annual snowfall, Snowshoe Mountain is an exciting escape for both beginners and seasoned snowboarders. Moreover, there are unlimited options for places to stay. Ranging from spectacular lodges to cozy cabins and chalets.
While Snowshoe is closely associated with winter adventures, the resort offers several indoor and outdoor activities. It has a popular golf course, extensive biking trails, wedding and convention areas, and several summer activities. On top of this, it hosts one of the Grand National cross-country racing events every year.
What Makes Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia Outstanding?
Being one of the ski resorts with high elevation, Snowshoe, gets better snow than most mountains in the region. The resorts boast 57 trails and 5 terrain parks. Its 1.5 miles long Cupp Run is one of the best slopes in the region. From the mid of the village, several trails run from the top of Ballhooter down the slope.
With three different ski areas: Silver Creek, Snowshoe Basin, and the Western Territories, Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia, boasts one of the most diverse terrains and biggest drops in the state. This environment offers a learning space for novice skiers. This is also the best environment for experts to challenge themselves. There is also a learning curve for those who are not familiar with the conditions at Snowshoe. Snowboarders or skiers who want an all-around experience will find it enjoyable because they will expose themselves to different conditions.
Snowshoe Basin has the most trails than the other two ski areas combined. Its crown jewels are 38 trails and the Village at the peak of the mountain. So, most of your shopping, lodging, and dining are enjoyed at the top of the mountain. There are several runs suitable for beginners. Some runs such as Gandy Dancer and Skip-jack and best for moderate adventurers. The Basin also has a number of advanced runs such as Choker and Widowmaker.
At the Western Territory, things start to get serious. With 1.5 miles of downhill and 1500 feet vertical drop, this area of Cheat Mountain is one of the scariest. One of the most outstanding landmarks here is Cupp Run, a slope linked to famous Olympian Jean-Claude Killy.
Silver Creek is the most beginner and family-friendly area in the resort. The section hosts the Coca-Cola Tube Park, Snowshoe Ski and Snowboarding school, and the Kid’s World. If you are a fan of night skiing, Silver Creek has 12 trails.
What To Do in Snowshoe WV
Snowshoe Mountain attracts diverse visitors from all over the Mid-Atlantic region. Everyone who visits the area will find something interesting to do. The 50+ trails are enough for different levels of skiers and snowboarders. However, if you are not into snowboarding or skiing, there are several other adventures such as snow-tubing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. You may also choose to avoid the cold and choose one of the indoor and outdoor activities such as swimming, going to a treatment spa, movies, Eurobungy, games, playground slides, live entertainment, or visiting the Big Top with youngsters.
For those that like to go shopping, the Village at the peak of the mountain is lined up with shops and restaurants. There are several handmade products in the WV Market. You can shop for clothing, gifts as well as snow gear. You can purchase the latest sports equipment at the Mountain Adventure Center, or find the latest apparel at Full Tilt.
Besides shopping, the village offers a diverse dining experience. Dining here ranges from grab-and-go to fine cuisine. Generally, the food quality varies because of the constant change of staff, but there are upscale restaurants that have a good menu for seafood and steaks. If you book a rental unit with a kitchen, you can carry along supplies for breakfast.
One of the unique things about Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia is its secluded location. Because of its closeness to the Green Bank Observatory, the region is sometimes referred to as National Radio Quiet Zone. Therefore, there are few spots where you can use your cell phones. This presents a rare opportunity to take a break from reality and enjoy nature. Should you need to make an urgent call, there are phones and wireless internet in the lodges.
Apart from the village lodging, there are several condo complexes, cabins, and houses that spread across the entire resort. If you are traveling with family or a group, you may need to book in advance in order to secure the best houses with sunset views.
Short History of Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia
Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia first opened in 1974, when some developers came together to convert a logged forest into a ski resort. To take advantage of the elevation of 4,848 feet, the developers built the ‘base’ at the top. Those days the resort had only a few battered lodges. Since then, Snowshoe has grown into a complex ski resort full of restaurants, condos, lodges, shops, and an extensive ski area. Most of the developments were realized after it was acquired in 1995 by Intrawest, a Canadian resort developer.
Recently, Snowshoe Mountain announced that it plans to invest about $4 million to improve its grooming and snow-making technology during the summer to provide the best skiing experience. The leadership of the resort projects that by the end of the year, there would be more skiable terrain open earlier in the season. Thus, creating a longer ski season.
Getting to Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia
Snowshoe Mountain West Virginia is located at 10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe WV 26209. For driving directions, click here. During peak seasons, the parking can get crowded in the village. Fortunately, shuttles are free within the resort. To avoid the hassles of queuing when you get to the resort, buy your ticket in advance on Snowshoe’s website.