Tuck into this mountain valley Winter Wonderland

Whether you’re skiing or just looking for a winter escape, Canaan Valley, WV, is a winter wonderland.

Tuck away just outside D.C. in the sweeping snowscapes of this mountain valley. Ski, tube, explore the backcountry beauty or just relax. Just a short time there will show you why Canaan Valley is recognized as one of most ideal destinations for a 3-day weekend in West Virginia.

Slopes

Where better than the Mountain State to slide on the slopes? Canaan Valley is home to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, which boasts 47 trails for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy.

Family fun

Relive the simple joys of a snow day! Take on the hillsides in an old-time sled at Blackwater Falls State Park, or hop on an inner tube to swish all the way down the longest tubing park in the region at Canaan Valley Resort.

Kids can create own adventures with youth skiing programs, or you can glide around together at the ice skating rink, hand-in-hand.

All capped with hot cocoa and cozying up by the lodge fireplace, of course.

Backcountry beauty

If swooping down the slopes isn’t quite your speed, slow things down with smooth, scenic snowshoe and cross-country treks. Roam the hills on the East Coast’s best cross-country trails at White Grass.

The mountain scenery is jaw-dropping, especially covered in shimmering snow. For a truly breathtaking scene, swoop out to the plateaud plains of Dolly Sods, one of the state’s most unique settings. The famed amber-tinted Blackwater Falls even freeze solid, mid-cascade.

Relaxation

Enjoy the scenery from the luxury of a horse-drawn sleigh from Mountain Trail Rides, or hop right atop a noble steed, who will carry you off into the snowy sunset— or at least the snowy wilderness.

Afterward, sink into bliss at the Spa at Canaan, with head-to-toe pampering that will wash away any winter blues for the rest of the season.

Small-town treats

Nearby Thomas and Davis are quintessential mountain towns, with the all the quaint charms of Appalachia. Browse the studios and galleries, or discover old treasures at the antique shops.

Stop into TipTop for a sip of beverages from artisanal coffee to cocktails, or head straight to the source at 3 local craft breweries. End an evening at the family-friendly Purple Fiddle, where there’s almost always live mountain music.

How will you spend your winter retreat?

Plan my winter escape >

This post was last updated on July 24, 2023