6 Ski Resorts within 200 miles of Charleston, West Virginia
West Virginia’s capital, Charleston, in the Allegheny Mountains, is just a few hours away from some impressive ski areas. When seeking resorts near the city, it’s all about quality over quantity. There are six located within 200 miles, but with long runs, high vertical drops, and significant amounts of snowfall, all of these resorts provide …
6 Ski Resorts within 200 miles of Charleston, West VirginiaRead More
Virginia Ski Areas by City
Guide to Virginia’s 6 Ski Resorts
Virginia is for Lovers, but it’s also for skiers. The state’s terrain is varied with plenty of mountains to the west, creating impressive opportunities for skiing. Between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, the state has beautiful ski areas, despite a perception that they might be too tame for experienced skiers and snowboarders.
All 4 downhill winter ski options are part of 4-season resorts, where there are plenty of activities in the winter months and lodging and amenity choices. Natural snow isn’t plentiful but overnight temperatures are usually low enough to create an artificial base.
The ski season generally runs from mid-December through mid-March, though conditions can vary based on the weather. Check resort information beforehand, as some resorts might close temporarily during the week if the snow is poor. The best time to visit any of the state’s resorts is after a snowfall, but if that can’t be arranged then visit in early February when the snow is usually at its peak and temperatures are comfortable.
Blue Ridge Ski Areas
Wintergreen is a 4-season resort tucked in the midst of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Ski area access is located at the top of the mountain, where lodging, dining, and equipment rentals are available. For experienced skiers new to Wintergreen, the mountain may feel a bit upside down. The easiest runs are located near the top of the slopes and the difficult runs are at the bottom and to the sides.
Even though the resort has only 129 skiable acres, the atmosphere makes it feel larger. Wintergreen’s surprisingly challenging slopes are spread out, so skiers have plenty of room to explore while switching between the 26 green, blue, and black trails. The longest run, Tyro, is a black diamond, traversing 1.4 miles primarily along the lift line.
The Omni Homestead is a very small ski option for those staying at the Omni Hotel in Hot Springs. It’s not necessarily a ski destination for experienced skiers, but a good choice for families. The 45-acre ski area has 9 easy runs located on a fairly vertical plan accessed by 3 lifts.
Some trails are long but overall not very challenging. The resort also features an ice rink, mini snowmobiles for kids, and tubing as alternative outdoor recreation options.
Other Appalachian Ski Resorts
Located in the middle of the Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Ski Resort has some spectacular views and newly added slopes. The resort is celebrating its 50th anniversary by adding new lifts and runs over the next few years, bringing the total number of trails to 20.
These new trails, all blue and black, will elevate its status to be on par with other premier resorts east of the Mississippi. Massanutten’s skiable area covers 70 acres with 2,925 feet of elevation and a 1,110-foot vertical drop.
Bryce Resort in the Allegheny mountains is part of a timeshare complex but open to the public. It’s a small hill with 25 skiable acres but packed full of fun. The ski area has 8 slopes plus a terrain park. Most are for beginner skiers, but the top of the mountain has a few challenging trails. When the weather is cold enough, the ice skating rink, snow tubing, and snowshoe treks at sunset are available.
While mid-winter is the best opportunity for great skiing, mid-March is the most entertaining time of the year with Winterfest. The day-long event celebrates the end of the ski season capped by pond skimming which has to be witnessed live to be fully appreciated. The ski area doesn’t have its own accommodations but there are plenty of rental options in the timeshare.
Year-Round Skiing
Virginia is also the home to 2 year-round skiing options. Northern Virginia is home to the Inside Ski Training Center utilized by professionals but open to the public. Skiers navigate special skis on a treadmill with a low slope. The cost includes equipment and instruction.
Further south at Liberty University is Liberty Mountain Snowflex Center, which has downhill slopes, terrain park features, and tubing on material that mimics snow. Snowflex uses a turf-like material for skiing and snowboarding. The material can be abrasive on the skin and a challenge to navigate, so beginner skiers may be wise to start on winter snow first.
Virginia breaks the stigma that eastern ski resorts are tame. The 4 downhill resorts have plenty of challenging runs between them but also lots of tepid slopes for skiers and snowboarders to learn. With 2 off-season options, skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels have the option of ski activities any time of the year.
