Relive your fondest childhood memories by taking a snow day at a West Virginia state park or forest.

There’s something magical about being a kid in the winter. The sense of excitement when those first big snowflakes drop from the sky and you eagerly wait to hear those four magic words: “School is closed tomorrow.” No matter how old we get, we can all appreciate a snow day. So, let West Virginia State Parks take you back in time and help you recreate that magical feeling the next time a good snow comes through your area. Here are a few tips to make your next snow day unforgettable!

1. Enjoy a wintry stroll

The good thing about hiking is that it never goes out of season. So, bundle up and get your day off to a great start by taking a wintry walk in the woods. On your trek, let you imagination run wild as you encounter a fairytale-like land of frozen waterfalls and snow-blanketed trees. Take in beautiful views from a scenic overlook at Pipestem Resort, Hawks Nest and Blackwater Falls, or explore historic tunnels and bridges along the North Bend Rail Trail near North Bend State Park.

2. Fuel up

After a few miles on the trails, you’ll want to refuel at one of our restaurants. After indulging in a hot and hearty meal, you’ll be prepared for even more fun in the snow. Our restaurants at Cacapon Resort, Chief Logan, Hawks Nest and Pipestem Resort are open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. And with a wide selection of dishes to choose from, our menus are sure to please every palate.

3. Hit the slopes

If you’re taking a snow day at Canaan Valley Resort or  Blackwater Falls, enjoying some time on the slopes is a perfect after-breakfast activity. Tackle up to 47 skiing and snowboarding trails for all skill levels at Canaan Valley, which also boasts the longest tubing park in the Mid-Atlantic. Or head down the road to Blackwater Falls and try out the longest sled run on the East Coast. If you prefer snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, you’ll find trails as well as rental equipment at Blackwater Falls, as well as Pipestem Resort.

4. Warm up

After a day of snow sports, pop into the warming hut at Canaan Valley or Blackwater Falls and warm up over a steaming hot cup of cocoa. At Stonewall Resort, you can cozy up around the outdoor fire pit or enjoy a long soak in the hot tub. And if you’re staying at Cacapon Resort, plan a side trip over to Berkeley Springs State Park, where you can soak in a warm mineral water Roman bath.

5. Extend your stay

Who says snow days have to end when the sun goes down? Turn your snow day into an overnighter and enjoy a full weekend of outdoor fun. Our parks offer a variety of overnight accommodations, from luxurious lodge rooms to cozy cabins. And make sure you check out our deals page. You might just find a great deal on cabins and lodge rooms!

Book your snowy getaway today!