The western part of Virginia is flanked by the Allegheny Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains, making skiing and snowboarding obvious winter pastimes. If you live near Chesapeake, most of these ski fields are within a short drive. The next time you feel the urge to hit the slopes, don’t miss out on these amazing ski resorts and all they have to offer.
1. Snowshoe Mountain Resort
Located 300 miles from Chesapeake, Snowshoe Mountain Resort is an excellent choice for a weekend or week long trip. Several nearby towns offer a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget to extravagant. There’s also an on-site hotel that provides you with top-notch amenities. When you’re ready to hit the mountain, all you have to do is strap on your skis and let gravity do the rest. If you’re looking for a challenge, Snowshoe Mountain has five extreme terrain parks, as well as some of the best downhill skiing in the state. Beginners will love the bunny hills, and ski lessons are always a great option to get you started. Lift passes start at $38 on weekdays.
2. Wintergreen Resort
If you’re looking for something a bit closer to home, Wintergreen Resort is 200 miles away from Chesapeake by way of Interstate 64. Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Wintergreen Resort offers world-class skiing at an affordable price. The terrain park is the crown jewel here, with more than 40 obstacles, rails, and ramps on which to catch some air. Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine voted it the best terrain park. For beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders, the resort has dozens of runs that are sure to delight. After a long day on the mountain, head back to your on-site accommodation, complete with a restaurant, spa, and nightlife activities. Eight-hour lift passes start at $59.
3. Bryce Resort
Situated on the edge of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Bryce Resort is about a four-hour drive from Chesapeake, but when you arrive, you’ll find the journey was well worth your time. Day passes start at $42, but for a real treat, try the nighttime skiing, which is not only thrilling but also a bargain at just $25 per session. There’s an on-site restaurant and hotel, allowing you to stay on the mountain for the duration of your trip. If you’re a bit apprehensive about hitting the slopes, snow tubing is another popular choice.
4. Massanutten Resort
Nestled at the foothills of Shenandoah National Park, Massanutten Resort’s terrific skiing is matched only by its majestic views. For more than 40 years, this resort has offered exceptional lodging and exciting nightlife, and it now has a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and café. Here, you can test your slalom and downhill skills on 11 runs of varying difficulty or try your hand at the two terrain parks. Passes are $50 on weekends and $70 on the weekend.
With so many great options, Virginia is certainly one of the undiscovered gems of the American ski world. This winter, don’t miss out on your chance to ski to your heart’s content.
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Image via Flickr by Mini D
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