The Top Three West Virginia Ski Resorts
West Virginia boasts some of of the best getaway spots in the country, each offering a smorgasbord of snow-packed fun to keep you and your fellow travelers entertained for the duration of your stay. The following is our list of the top three West Virginia Ski Resorts:
1. Snowshoe West Virginia
Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort lies nestled in a concave valley between the Cheat and Back Allegheny mountains, near the head of the Cheat River at Shavers Fork. The Village at Snowshoe is uniquely positioned at the peak of Cheat Mountain, the second highest peak in West Virginia, coming in at 4,848-feet above sea level, welcoming nearly half a million visitors each year. Snowshoe offers more than 180 inches of snow per year. Those snow amounts combined with man-made snow allows this resort to offer a one-of-a-kind snow guarantee. In addition, Snowshoe has a showcase of over sixty runs, 36% beginner runs, 33% intermediate runs, 19% advanced runs, 3% expert runs, and 244 acres of skiable area across three different territories, offering the best skiing for guests of every ability.
Some of the more interesting runs for the experienced skier include the heart-pounding Widowmaker and Choker and the more leisurely Gandy Dancer, with a total of 38 trails and an 800-foot vertical drop, all found in the Snowshoe Basin area. The Western area features the most advanced terrain, offering a 1,500-foot vertical drop and 1.5 miles of downhill for those with snow in their veins. Snowshoe beginners are welcome at ski school to learn all the right moves before hitting the slopes. Night skiers will love the Silver Creek area, which offers up 18 trails, 12 for night skiing, 6 lifts, the 5-lane Coca-Cola Tube Park, as well as Kid’s World and Silver Creek Ski & Snowboard School. Beyond the many slopes available to skiers of every ability, Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort boasts year-round activities and amenities, making it the perfect anytime vacation, even hosting romantic wedding parties all through the year. Some of the other fun awaiting you in Snowshoe WV include hiking, biking, fishing, wilderness Segway tours, scenic horseback riding with guides, ziplining, geocaching, swimming, full-service spa, fine dining, and golfing on an 18-hole PGA Championship course. Sun up to sundown there is always something to do at this West Virginia Ski resorts.
2. Canaan Valley, Davis, WV
Canaan Valley Resort offers a summit elevation of 4,280-feet with more than 45 trails with 19% being beginner runs, 36% intermediate runs, 43% advanced runs, 2% expert runs, and 850-foot vertical drop. The resort sits snug in the higher ranges of the Allegheny Mountains, promising hours of fun for skiers and snowboarders of every level, including lesson for those with no ski experience.
Besides the world-class ski opportunities, Canaan Valley is also a year-round family friendly vacation destination. Attractions include the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge with 31 miles of hiking, fishing, and hunting available over 16,225 acres of land. Smoke Hole Caverns offers a step back in history to admire natural formations that are millions of years old.
More local entertainment includes scenic train tours, various musical groups, and family fun at the Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre. More robust visitors can enjoy horseback riding, whitewater rafting on the Cheat river, and ziplining from steep slopes offering breathtaking vista views. For a more relaxing time, guests can watch a glassblowing demonstration at Appalachian Glass in Weston, WV.
3. Timberline Four Seasons Resort, Davis, WV
The Timberline Four Seasons Resort has been a long-time favorite for ski enthusiasts in the Eastern part of the country and for visitors from abroad. Timberline offers skiers and snowboards a peak elevation of just under 4,300-feet. With 200 inches of annual snowfall, a 100-foot vertical drop, more than 100 acres of skiable terrain, and 39 total runs with 34% beginner runs, 32% intermediate runs, 14% advanced runs, and 20% expert runs. Timberline offers both day and night skiing over a combined 39 runs. With many runs geared towards beginners, it remains a great option for the new skier, while promising hours of fun for the more experienced guest on intermediate, advanced, and expert runs.
Much like our other West Virginia ski resorts, at Timberline you can also enjoy a plethora of summertime activities. At the Timberline Stables, conveniently located near the entrance of the resort offers reservation and walk-in service seven days a week. If you’re planning a special evening, consider a romantic sunset ride. Self-guided hiking, scenic chairlift rides, biking, and music events are also readily available to round out your days.
Skiers and snowboarders looking for a fantastic holiday can do no wrong choosing one of these West Virginia ski resorts for their vacation getaway. These top-notch resorts are perfect for friends or families looking for a vacation that promises non-stop action or more leisurely enjoyment, on the snow or taking advantage of the dozens of other available pastimes located deep in the West Virginia mountains.
