If you love the beaches of Virginia during the summer, you’ll absolutely love what this coastal southern state has to offer in Winter. In this skiing resource guide, we’ll take you to the best ski resorts in Virginia that will surely take your skiing trip to the next level.
When snow arrives, the rolling hills of Virginia turn into a perfect playground for skiing enthusiasts. With beautiful mountain landscapes, excellent ski runs, and modern facilities, these resorts have everything you need for a thrilling skiing adventure.
The best ski resorts in Virginia may not be set as high as those out in the north and east, but they sure keep up with all the fun!
Always remember to wear the proper gear when for a safe skiing experience. Check out my reliable ski helmet, jacket, and bib!
What Month is Best to Ski in Virginia?
Unfortunately, Virginia does not have a reputation for being a top ski destination, as it has only a few ski resorts with limited skiing terrain.
However, if you are looking to ski in Virginia, some resorts open as early as the week of Thanksgiving to cater to families, but the best time to visit is typically from late December to early March when the snow conditions are generally more favorable.
During this time, the temperatures are also usually colder, which helps maintain the snow quality.
It’s essential to check the current snow conditions before planning your trip, as Virginia’s skiing season can be quite unpredictable.
Best Ski Resorts in Virginia
Route 664 Wintergreen, VA
Wintergreen resort is located just 1.5 hours away from Richmond and features four seasons of mountain recreation and amenities. It is regarded as one of the best ski areas in the region, with 26 slopes and trails of varied terrains that cater to skiers of all skiing levels. Another amazing fact is that they are the only ski resort in the region that features two high-speed 6-pack chairlifts that can bring skiers quickly back to the top of the mountains.
They have a terrain park with over 40 features like rainbow rails, down-kinks, spines and hips, and more. It offers the perfect chance for skiers to improve their skills and practice their freestyling tricks. To make it more fun and exciting, they often change the layout of the 40+ features, so skiers will have something new to experience when they visit.
Wintergreen holds skiing events, including Rail Jam and Slopestyle, wherein skiers and snowboarders compete and show their amazing skills as they run down a course filled with a variety of obstacles.
Ridgely’s Fun Park is the perfect place for the kids to enjoy various snow activities, including a mini-tubing carousel, bear paw snowshoes, tunnels, and a gentle hill for tubing and sledding.
1982 Fairway Drive, Basye, VA
Bryce Ski resort is a 400-acre resort located near the West Virginia border and is a popular winter destination among locals, families, and tourists from the Washington, D.C. area.
Bryce resort has a vertical of 500 ft, a top elevation of 1750 ft., and 25 acres of skiable areas. The resort features one terrain park and eight runs that go from easy to the most challenging, including a black diamond trail that is designed for adrenaline junkies.
Four lifts service the area; among them are two surface lifts and another two chairlifts.
Another thing to love about this resort is they offer one of the best skiing programs and lessons for skiers of all ages and skill levels. There are certified instructors that provide a positive and fun learning experience for the participants.
Aside from skiing, there are other activities you can do, such as snow tubing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
7696 Sam Snead Hwy, Hot Springs, VA
Situated in the middle of the Allegheny Mountains, Omni Homestead Resort is a luxury resort in Virginia with a rich history that extends more than two and a half centuries. Aside from being known for its championship golf courses, the resort also features an alpine ski area founded in 1959 and is the oldest in Virginia.
The ski area has a vertical rise of 700 ft, a summit of 3,200 ft., and 42 acres of skiable terrain. Although it is the smallest ski resort in Virginia, there are 9 amazing trails that stretch up to 4,200 ft. Trails vary in levels, with 35% of it geared towards beginners, 55% of the trails for intermediate skiers, and the remaining 10% dedicated to expert skiers.
Three lifts service the area's main and only northwest-facing slope, two surface lifts that serve the beginner terrain at the bottom of the hill, and one double chairlift with access to the intermediate and expert terrains at the top.
After all the fun and play, you can relax and soothe your tired muscles at the resort’s famous hot springs.
1822 Resort Dr, Massanutten, VA
Last but definitely not least on our list of the best ski resorts in Virginia is the incredible Massanutten Resort. It is located a few minutes from the Shenandoah National Park & Skyline Drive and about two hours from the capital.
The Massanutten ski area was constructed in 1972 and has been one of the best winter destinations for families for over 40 years. The resort has 70 acres of skiable area with 14 trails, eight lifts, and two terrain parks. More than half of the trails are dedicated to intermediate and expert skiers, and the longest run stretches up to over 4000 ft. Activities such as snow tubing and ice skating are also being offered.
If you’re looking for a place to eat and replenish your energy, visit their two newest additions to the resort: the Grab N Go Café located on the lower level of the lodge and Base Camp Bar & Grill just outside on the new 5000 sq. ft. ski lodge patio.
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