A favorite winter getaway for Washingtonian snow sports enthusiasts, Canaan Valley also tempts visitors outside ski season. Trek or bike along alpine trails through lush mountain terrain, drop a fishing line into well-stocked waters or tee off at a scenic 18-hole golf course.
In winter, with a blanket of snow enveloping the Canaan Valley, skiers and snowboarders descend upon the Canaan Valley Resort State Park and the Timberline Four Seasons Resort. The two winter resorts offer more than 80 slopes and trails and a terrain park. Alternatives to skiing and snowboarding are available too. Slide down Canaan Valley’s tubing hill with the kids and sled at Blackwater Falls State Park. The frozen falls at Blackwater are also worth investigating.
Once the snow melts, the mountain foliage blooms and new activities become available. Swing a club at the Canaan Valley Resort Golf Course. Sign up for guide-led nature hikes around Canaan Valley State Park or strike out on your own on hiking routes. Some trails, such as the Northland Loop in the flower-filled Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, feature interpretive signage. Others, such as the Allegheny Highlands Trail, run along now-defunct railroad lines.
For scenic valley views, ride the Canaan Resort Chairlift. The vistas are especially picturesque during fall when the leaves change to shades of rust, gold and orange. Go fishing or hiking in the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge in the northern part of the valley and stop at the visitor center to watch educational films and browse exhibits. Mountain bike or ride horses on some of the trails.
Find a selection of restaurants along the highway. Slope-side dining is also available during the ski season.
Rent a cabin or condominium on the mountain or stay overnight at one of the Canaan Valley Resort campgrounds. The best way to reach Canaan Valley is by car. Driving from Washington D.C. will take about 3 hours in light traffic, while the journey from Baltimore will take about 3.5 hours. Find alpine adventure among unspoiled mountain terrain.
