West Virginia Welcomes Winter Tourism Surge as Ski Resorts Launch New Trails Inclusive Lessons and Family Adventures

Published on December 2, 2025

West Virginia is welcoming the winter season with renewed energy as its premier mountain destinations prepare to open for visitors seeking crisp air, fresh snow, and unforgettable alpine adventures. This year’s ski season launches in early December, bringing new opportunities for travelers of all ages and abilities to embrace the state’s winter charm. With three major resorts opening in quick succession and a record-long sled run joining the lineup later in the month, the state is shaping up to become one of the East Coast’s most inviting winter playgrounds.

The season begins with the opening of Timberline Mountain on December 4, followed by Snowshoe Mountain on December 5, and Winterplace Ski Resort on December 6. Each destination offers its own character and seasonal highlights, but all share a commitment to delivering exciting terrain, modern facilities, and inclusive winter experiences. This year, visitors will also find expanded learn-to-ski initiatives and adaptive lesson programs, ensuring that newcomers, families, and travelers with diverse physical needs can fully enjoy the thrill of the mountains.

Timberline Mountain, located in the scenic community of Davis, WV, stands out as a retreat that blends natural beauty with efficient accessibility. The resort features more than 20 trails designed for beginners, intermediates, and seasoned skiers, all connected by a high-speed, six-person lift that reduces wait times and maximizes time on the snow. Its forested slopes, quiet ridgelines, and inviting base area create a setting ideal for travelers who enjoy a blend of adventure and tranquility. As early winter snowfall dusts the surrounding peaks, the resort’s layout offers smooth, varied descents perfect for families as well as experienced visitors seeking long, uninterrupted runs.

Snowshoe Mountain brings a different kind of winter energy, offering the widest variety of activities among the three destinations. With more than 60 trails, terrain designed for all levels, and dedicated snowboarding zones, the resort has long been a favorite for travelers who want abundant options. Beyond the slopes, it offers winter experiences that appeal to both thrill-seekers and leisure-minded guests, including snow tubing, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a lively pedestrian village filled with dining, shopping, and entertainment. The elevation and positioning of this destination create consistently strong early-season snow conditions, making it a reliable choice for travelers eager to start their ski season early.

Winterplace Ski Resort, the southernmost ski area in the state, opens its season on December 6 and serves as a convenient winter escape for families and visitors traveling through the region. Located near Interstate 77, the resort combines accessibility with variety. Travelers can enjoy nearly 30 trails, two terrain parks, and the longest tubing run in West Virginia. With its gentle learning areas and wide intermediate slopes, this mountain remains popular among beginners and groups looking for an easy-to-navigate winter getaway. Early-season preparations at the resort have focused on enhancing snowmaking capabilities, ensuring a consistent snow base throughout the busy December-March period.

In addition to these three ski resorts, winter travelers will soon have another attraction to look forward to. The East Coast’s longest sled run, located at Blackwater Falls, is scheduled to open on December 18, 2025. Operating Thursday through Sunday, weather permitting, through March 2026, the sled run offers a unique winter experience that combines natural scenery with family-friendly outdoor fun. Its length and gentle slope profile make it suitable for a wide range of ages, adding a fresh layer of excitement to West Virginia’s seasonal offerings.

With crisp mountain air, diverse terrain, and a calendar filled with opening dates that stretch across the month, West Virginia is ready to welcome travelers in search of exhilarating winter escapes. This season promises expanded accessibility, stronger infrastructure, and an ever-growing array of snow-filled adventures, setting the stage for one of the most memorable winter seasons the state has seen in years.