West Virginia is the perfect spot for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in winter, with its epic mountain ranges and vast forests. While there are numerous locations for these sports throughout the state, a few are exceptional. Here are four of the best spots in the state.

What Are the Best Places for Winter Sports in West Virginia?

1. Snowboarding

Snowshoe Mountain Resort, located at the highest point of Cheat Mountain, is the ideal spot for snowboarders. This destination is one of the most extensive ski and snowboard areas in the Mid-Atlantic states. It has 60 trails with progressive terrain parks and natural glades for various ability levels, all accessible via chairlift. Along with an average of 180 inches of snow each winter, the alpine village offers a tubing park, snowmobile tours, restaurants, bars, and a nightclub.

2. Downhill Skiing

Silver Creek Ski Area is a hidden gem of Snowshoe Mountain, known for its legendary night skiing. Featuring 17 trails and a 660-foot vertical drop, this area of Snowshoe is smaller, but not as busy, providing a better experience for groups. The slopes range from gentle beginner trails to fast and ungroomed black diamonds that will test even the best skiers. It is home to the only night skiing mountain in Snowshoe, along with West Virginia's largest tubing park.

3. Cross-Country Skiing

Cranberry Wilderness is one of the most remote and expansive wilderness areas on the East Coast. It encompasses 47,815 acres, with elevations from 2,400 to over 4,600 above sea level, and features nearly 100 miles of trails and another 100 miles of forest roads. One of the most popular loops is the 20-mile Cowpasture to Kennison to FR 102 to FR 232 (Dogway Fork) trail, which offers an immersive, invigorating experience.

4. Snowshoeing

The Highland Scenic Highway, a 22.5-mile-long designated National Scenic Byway, is the ideal spot for snowshoers. Located in the Monongahela-Alleghany Highlands and spanning from Richwood to US Route 219, the byway offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscape. It is surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest and contains several miles of hiking trails perfect for snowshoeing.

If you’re planning a trip to West Virginia for a fun winter getaway, stay at Jerico Bed/Breakfast & Pre-Civil War Log Cabins. Located in Marlinton, this hotel features beautifully restored historic 19th Century log cabins, all equipped with modern amenities for optimal comfort. Call (888) 499-6241 to make a reservation, or visit their website to learn more.