Find Yourself With a Winter WV State Parks Adventure
The best thing about taking a trip to a West Virginia state park is that you can enjoy the outdoors in a way that best suits your interests.
Are you a thrill seeker who wants to race down the slopes and escape the hurry and busyness of your work-life?
Do you prefer to hike on a trail through the forest and quietly reflect on the beauty of nature?
Are you family oriented and value time spent with your loved ones in a place free of distractions?
Maybe you’re a creative who finds inspiration in mountain views.
Whoever you are, West Virginia’s state parks have something for you. Here are a few options to consider this winter.
Ski Enthusiast
Whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn the basics on the slopes or a seasoned skier who wants to slow down and explore by cross-country skiing, there are plenty of options for ski enthusiasts at Blackwater Falls, Canaan Valley Resort and Pipestem Resort.
Downhill and Cross-Country Skiing at Canaan Valley Resort
Due to its high elevation and annual snowfall of about 180 inches, Canaan Valley Resort State Park has a lengthy season for snow sports and recreation. The park has 47 trails for downhill skiers, as well as cross-country skiing, making it a great place for beginners and families to enjoy the wintry weather.
Cross-Country Skiing at Blackwater Falls
Blackwater Falls has more than 10 miles of trails available for cross-country skiing. When the park is covered in snow, incredible views await you at every corner. Spend the night at the newly renovated 54-room lodge or in one of the park’s 39 cozy cabins.
Cross-Country Skiing at Pipestem Resort
Pipestem Resort has several maintained trails for cross-country skiing and seven advanced trails that are not maintained for use by experienced skiers. Get ready for stunning backcountry views. Spend the night at the newly renovated McKeever Lodge or in one of the park’s 26 cozy cabins.
Contemplative Hiker
Are you the contemplative type who goes to the forest for silence and solitude? Winter hiking is for you. During the winter, trails are less crowded and can be quite enchanting with their snow-blanketed trees, animal tracks and frosty air. So, bundle up and venture out for a winter trek on your favorite trail or hike in a park you’ve never visited before. Here are a few winter hikes worth checking out:
Lakeshore Trail at Pipestem Resort
The 3-mile loop around Long Branch Lake makes a good winter hike, with its gentle, rolling hills, thick groves of pine and scenic views of Long Branch Lake.
Giant Pine Trail at North Bend
This half-mile loop begins across from lodge at North Bend and passes through a thicket of white pine and old-growth forest where several tree species reach record heights. With its moderate grades and smooth tread, the trail is ideal for a winter stroll through the towering evergreens.
Lindy Point at Blackwater Falls
This out and back trail leads to an overlook with views of the awe-inspiring Blackwater Canyon. If the road to the trailhead is closed for cross-country skiing, rent a couple of skis from the sled run rental shop and enjoy a new winter activity.
Click here for more winter hikes.
Family Adventurer
Are you the type of person who enjoys planning family trips and getting your kids excited about outdoor activities? Get ready for family adventures because winter at West Virginia’s state parks is a lot of fun. Plan your own adventure at your family’s favorite state park or check out one of these popular family attractions:
Sled Run at Blackwater Falls
The Sled Run at Blackwater Falls is a one-of-a-kind winter attraction that delights visitors of all ages. Race down a quarter mile of fresh snow, then hitch a ride back up the hill on the Magic Carpet conveyor belt. The sled run is popular and often sells out, so purchase your tickets in advance before you go.
Tubing and Skating at Canaan Valley Resort
Although it’s known for skiing and snowboarding, Canaan Valley Resort has a popular tubing park and covered ice-skating rink.
Creative with a Cabin in the Woods
Whether you’re writing the next great American novel or planning the next year of content for your YouTube or Instagram account, there’s nothing like a cozy cabin retreat to help you clear your mind and focus on creating something for the world to enjoy. Find a state park cabin near you or plan a trip to one of these parks:
Cacapon Resort
Located at the foot of a mountain, Cacapon Resort is a great place for a winter cabin getaway. In between creative sessions, spend some time at the park’s new spa and relax your body and mind. If you can’t find a cabin or prefer hotel amenities, plan to stay at Cacapon’s newly renovated lodge.
Cass Scenic Railroad
Perhaps the state’s best kept lodging secret, Cass Scenic Railroad has company houses from the era when Cass was a mountain logging town. If spending the week in a historical setting doesn’t bring your imagination to life, take an extra week off and enjoy even more time in this beautiful park.
Twin Falls Resort
Twin Falls Resort has 14 secluded cabins tucked away in a hillside forest where you can find the peace and quiet you need to be creative.
Plan Your Winter WV State Parks Adventure Before It’s Too Late
Don’t wait until the last minute to book your West Virginia State Parks stay. Plan your winter trip today and get ready for adventure.
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