Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in Virginia
Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains about an hour west of Charlottesville, Wintergreen Resort offers a premier winter playground for skiers and snowboarders alike. The resort’s slopes cater to a range of skill levels, from gentle beginner runs like the Lakeview Trail to more challenging descents such as the Dragon’s Tail, which drops nearly 1,000 vertical feet. On clear days, the summit provides panoramic views of the rolling Virginia countryside, a reminder of the region’s unique blend of rugged terrain and pastoral charm. Wintergreen’s well-groomed trails and reliable snowmaking make it a dependable winter destination from late December through early March, and the lively village at the base offers cozy lodges perfect for warming up with a hot drink after a day on the slopes.
Further southwest, about two and a half hours from Richmond, the Massanutten Resort rises in the Allegheny Mountains near Harrisonburg. Massanutten’s ski area boasts a variety of runs traversing dense forests and open glades, including the popular Outer Limits trail, which winds down through a mix of steep pitches and gentle curves. Snowboarders appreciate the resort’s terrain park, featuring rails and jumps that draw local enthusiasts. Beyond skiing, Massanutten’s year-round indoor water park and spa provide a perfect contrast to chilly winter days, making it a versatile destination for families and couples seeking both adventure and relaxation. The resort’s location near the Shenandoah Valley also means that powder days are often followed by crisp evenings ideal for stargazing.
Closer to the Virginia-North Carolina border, Winterplace Ski Resort sits about a two-hour drive from Roanoke in the southwestern corner of the state. Although technically just over the state line, many visitors base themselves in Virginia’s nearby towns like Galax and enjoy a weekend of skiing here. Winterplace’s well-maintained slopes, including the challenging Appalachian Trail, offer diverse terrain, and its lively après-ski scene sets it apart from quieter mountain escapes. The resort’s snowmaking system ensures ample conditions throughout winter, and the surrounding area’s rich Appalachian culture shines through in local music venues and craft shops, providing a warm, inviting atmosphere once the skis come off.
For those who prefer to combine outdoor adventure with historical ambiance, the town of Abingdon, situated about 20 miles northwest of Bristol in southwestern Virginia, offers a charming winter retreat. Though not a ski town, Abingdon is home to the historic Martha Washington Inn, a grand stone hotel that dates back to the 1830s and serves as a cozy base for winter travelers. Nearby, the Virginia Creeper Trail invites outdoor enthusiasts to explore a scenic, gentle route that in winter is perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. This 35-mile trail follows an old railroad bed through forests and alongside creeks, showcasing the quiet beauty of the Appalachian foothills. The combination of elegant lodging, rich theater culture at the Barter Theatre, and winter outdoor recreation makes Abingdon a unique and inviting spot in Virginia’s winter landscape.
Heading east, Shenandoah National Park offers a different kind of winter experience just about an hour and a half from Washington, D.C. Skyline Drive, the park’s iconic 105-mile scenic route, transforms in the colder months as frost and snow dust the Blue Ridge peaks. While most of the park’s popular trails close for winter, hardy hikers can tackle sections like the Stony Man Trail, a short but rewarding half-mile climb that leads to one of the park’s highest overlooks at 4,000 feet. The sweeping vistas of the Shenandoah Valley blanketed in snow are breathtaking and quieter than during the busy fall foliage season. Nearby, the park’s rustic lodges and cabins offer a cozy retreat, where visitors can warm themselves by a fireplace after a day of crisp, invigorating mountain air.
In the Northern Neck region, about two hours east of Richmond, the small town of Middleburg is a winter haven known more for its cozy charm than for snowy slopes. Here, visitors can retreat to the comfortable cabins and inns that dot the rolling hills of Virginia horse country. While Middleburg doesn’t offer skiing, it’s a perfect place to unwind after a day venturing through nearby parks like Sky Meadows State Park, where winter hikes on the Blue Trail reveal quiet woodlands and frost-covered open fields. The town’s historic buildings, boutique shops, and inviting taverns serve up a warm, intimate atmosphere that complements the peaceful countryside, making it a delightful alternative for visitors who seek solace and rustic elegance in colder months.
Southwest of Richmond near the town of Amherst, the rugged terrain of the George Washington National Forest beckons winter adventurers who appreciate solitude and natural beauty. The forest’s Rough Mountain Wilderness Area features backcountry trails like the Rough Mountain Trail, a demanding 15-mile route through dense pines and rocky ridges. In winter, the trail’s elevation and exposure bring crisp air and snow-covered landscapes, ideal for experienced snowshoers and cross-country skiers craving a quiet escape. The forest’s abundant wildlife, from deer to wild turkeys, adds a touch of wilderness magic to the journey, while the lack of crowds allows for peaceful reflection amid Virginia’s rugged frontier. Nearby cabins and campgrounds provide rustic shelter to round out the immersive mountain experience.
In the heart of the Blue Ridge near Roanoke, the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway offers numerous overlooks and trailheads perfect for winter exploration. About 30 minutes from downtown Roanoke, the Mabry Mill area transforms under a blanket of snow into a postcard-worthy winter scene. While the mill itself isn’t operational in winter, the trails around it, such as the Hazel Mountain Trail, invite hikers to enjoy quiet forest walks with sweeping views of the valley below. The Parkway’s crisp winter air and serene environment encourage visitors to slow down and savor the season’s stillness. Nearby, cozy mountain cabins and lodges provide a quintessentially Appalachian setting for a winter getaway, complete with roaring fireplaces and hearty regional fare.
Each of these destinations highlights a different facet of Virginia’s winter magic—whether carving turns on groomed slopes, gliding through snowy woodlands, or curling up in a rustic cabin after a day of adventure. From the well-known ski resorts near Charlottesville and Harrisonburg to the quiet backcountry trails of the national forests and the charming inns of small historic towns, Virginia offers a richly varied winter landscape that invites exploration, relaxation, and the simple joy of crisp mountain air.