Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in Ohio
Just a short drive northeast of Cleveland, Boston Mills/Brandywine Ski Resort offers a refreshing winter escape for those craving crisp air and snowy slopes without leaving Ohio. Located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park region, this resort features over 20 trails that wind through the scenic hills, with runs suitable for beginners up to seasoned snowboarders. The resort’s proximity to a major city makes it an accessible playground where visitors can enjoy night skiing under bright floodlights or take lessons on gentle slopes like the Runway before tackling steeper terrain such as the challenging Upper Rock N’ Roll. The well-groomed trails and reliable snowmaking technology ensure a consistent winter experience, while the park’s natural beauty in winter—frost-laden trees and quiet valleys—adds a serene backdrop to active days. Late afternoons here often reveal soft golden light filtering through snow-dusted pines, making it a special time for a break or a quick photo.
Further south and about two hours from Columbus, Mad River Mountain offers a different vibe with its family-friendly atmosphere and sprawling terrain, set near the village of Zanesfield. Known for its gentle slopes ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers, it’s a perfect spot to refine skills or introduce kids to snowboarding. The resort features terrain parks that attract freestyle enthusiasts, adding excitement beyond traditional downhill runs. What distinguishes Mad River Mountain is its dedication to community and instruction, with robust ski schools and adaptive programs to welcome all abilities. Visitors enjoy the cozy lodge where crackling fireplaces create a warm refuge after a day on the slopes. The best time to visit is mid-winter when the mountain’s extensive snowmaking helps maintain smooth conditions, even if natural snowfall lags.
Nestled about 90 minutes southeast of Cincinnati, Perfect North Slopes brings steep runs and lively winter fun to southeastern Ohio’s rolling hills. This resort is especially popular with experienced skiers and snowboarders seeking diverse terrain features, such as half-pipes and rails, alongside classic trails like the long, winding J-Hill. The community atmosphere here is palpable, with frequent events and a strong local following. What sets Perfect North apart is its elevation relative to the surrounding area, which allows it to retain snow longer and offer consistent conditions late into the season. Visitors arriving in the early morning are often greeted by crisp views across the Ohio River Valley, a reminder that winter sports here are framed by more than just slopes—they’re part of a broader landscape of hills and waterways. After dusk, the slopes transform under floodlights, extending the day and the fun.
For those who prefer a quieter winter retreat, Hocking Hills State Park sits about an hour southeast of Columbus and beckons with its breathtaking, snow-blanketed landscapes. While not a ski resort, the park offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails like the three-mile Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls loop, a moderate trek that reveals frozen waterfalls and dramatic rock formations dusted in white. Hiking these trails in winter is a magical experience—icy cascades glisten like crystal chandeliers, and the hush of snow muffles the world. The park’s rugged terrain and dense forest create a cozy, intimate setting that contrasts with the adrenaline of downhill skiing. Winter days here are best spent exploring in the morning light before retreating to a nearby cabin, where rustic charm and warmth await.
Speaking of cabins, the Ohio Amish Country, about an hour south of Cleveland near the town of Berlin, offers an inviting winter stay that combines rustic lodging with a glimpse into a unique cultural heritage. Visitors can book cozy cabins surrounded by snow-blanketed farmland and rolling hills, where wood-burning stoves and simple craftsmanship create a welcoming ambiance. Nearby, the village of Walnut Creek features shops and eateries specializing in homemade pies and hearty comfort foods, perfect for warming up after a day outdoors. The Amish Country’s quieter pace in winter, with fewer tourists and serene white landscapes, offers a peaceful contrast to busier ski resorts. Snowfall turns the patchwork of fields and barns into a postcard scene, making this region ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural discovery.
About 45 minutes west of Toledo lies Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, a lesser-known winter destination with a unique ecosystem of dunes, forests, and wetlands. In winter, this sprawling park offers groomed cross-country ski trails that wind through the varied terrain, providing a workout coupled with the chance to spot winter birds and deer against the stark landscape. The preserve’s unusual mix of habitats sets it apart from more traditional hilly ski areas, offering a quiet, contemplative way to engage with Ohio’s natural beauty when snow blankets the earth. Visitors often find the low winter sun casting long shadows across open sandy areas and frozen ponds, creating a striking interplay of light and texture. Mid-morning is a good time to explore here, as the sun warms the crisp air and wildlife becomes more active.
Finally, about two hours south of Cleveland in the town of Nelsonville, Burr Oak State Park offers a blend of winter activities amid rolling Appalachian foothills. The park’s extensive network of trails is ideal for both snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with routes ranging from easy loops like the 2.2-mile Burr Oak Loop to more challenging hikes. The frozen Burr Oak Lake offers a scenic backdrop, where visitors can often see ice fishermen braving the cold or simply enjoy the quiet expanse of the winter landscape. What makes Burr Oak distinctive is its location within the unglaciated Allegheny Plateau, resulting in rugged terrain that feels wild and authentic. The best time to visit is on a clear winter day when the sun sparkles off the snow and the forest seems to hold its breath in peaceful silence, perfect for those seeking solitude and nature connection in Ohio’s winter months.