Can you believe it’s December already? We couldn’t be more excited to usher in winter and all it has to offer in our high mountain paradise. With a plethora of winter activities in Canaan Valley available to folks from all walks of life, now is the time to book your stay with us in one of our luxurious homes or cozy mountain cabins.
You may have heard the news that Timberline Ski Resort was recently purchased by Perfect North Slopes, a family-owned company that runs a highly-rated, 100-acre ski resort in Indiana. The news is making its rounds to the joy of visitors and locals alike, and Timberline is expected to reopen under its new management for the 2020-2021 winter season.
But don’t worry—with unrivaled snowsports, live music, and that unmistakable mountain town culture, there are plenty of winter activities in Canaan Valley to keep you busy this winter season!
Go to the Snow
You don’t need to wait for Timberline to reopen to take full advantage of winter in the mountains! With two ski resorts, a sled park and other snowy activities, there’s no doubt that your thirst for winter fun can be quenched in Canaan (and at one of our award-winning local craft breweries). There’s no better way to experience winter in the valley than in one of our remarkable rentals.
Canaan Valley State Park Resort
The ski area at Canaan Valley State Park Resort, projected to open December 13 (with early-season only $13 lift tickets!), is ready to go for the 2019-2020 winter season with a slew of upgrades to everyone’s favorite winter state park resort. Eighteen new snow guns and upgraded water pumps means the resort will be able to open more terrain earlier and keep it open later into the season. The parking lot is now fully paved and features an additional 75-100 parking spots for those peak winter weekends. The resort also added a new ticketing window at the opposite end of the parking lot to shorten lines. Canaan has also added new snowboarding gear to its rental fleet.
White Grass Ski Touring Center
Boasting 50KM of expertly-groomed world-class trails, White Grass is the east coast’s premier cross-country destination. White Grass is the manifestation of owner Chip Chase’s local twist on Nordic ski culture. Enjoy kick-and-glide ski touring and expansive views along the snow farm and thrilling backcountry-style trails on the forested terrain of Cabin Mountain. Meet new and old friends in the warming huts that dot the mountainside, and refuel your legs with soul-soothing food in the charming lodge of the White Grass Cafe.
Blackwater Falls State Park Sled Run
Located just ten minutes north of Canaan Valley, the Blackwater Falls Sled Run is quickly becoming a top-notch winter destination for people of all ages. It’s perfect for kids, parents, and even grandparents. At over a quarter-mile in length, it holds the title of longest sled run in the east! And with a magic carpet that carries you back to the top through a beautiful, snowy forest, you’ll have plenty of energy to fly down the mountainside again and again. While you’re there, don’t forget the state park’s amazing trail system. The Nordic center at the sled run also rents cross-country skis and snowshoes for exploring the park’s pristine forests.
Davis & Thomas: A Slice of the Mountain Life
Head just a few minutes north of Canaan Valley to experience West Virginia’s mountain culture in the neighboring towns of Davis and Thomas. Whether you’re looking for art, gear, food, or beer (or all four), these two towns have you covered.
Davis: Eat, Play & Drink
The old logging town of Davis is a regional mecca for both outdoor sports enthusiasts and craft food and beer lovers! With several local outdoor retailer shops and new boutiques, you can shop till you drop. Head to any of Davis’s top-notch restaurants or breweries for a culinary experience after exploring the local trails surrounding town. And when you’re done exploring, it’ll be just a short drive back to your cozy cabin in the valley.
Thomas: An Art Lover’s Paradise
An old coal-mining town along the North Fork of the Blackwater River, Thomas now boasts a thriving community of art galleries, cafes, shops, and live music along the beautifully restored row buildings of historic Front Street. Grab coffee while you browse the galleries, and head to the Purple Fiddle for live music almost every night of the week!
Book Your Snow Day Stay
With the exception of holidays, we’re extending our 4th Night Free Special all winter long! Keep an eye on the forecast and make the most out of a snow day in one of our rentals. Every rental comes with a fully equipped kitchen and everything you need to weather the storm! We’ve got cozy cabins all the way to mutli-bedroom units perfect for group ski trips.
Maybe you’ll want to stay a bit longer after your visit. Our friendly and dedicated real estate specialists can help you find that perfect condo, home, or property that’s been on your list. And after you purchase you’ll be pleased to know we offer a full range of property management services to keep your home in tip-top shape for your next visit. Or, want to rent your home when you’re not here…we’ll handle that for you, too.
An Eventful Winter Destination
Although there are tons of events year-round in the Canaan Valley region, things really ramp up when the flakes start flying. From wintry ski and bike races to holiday parties and live music, there’s something going on for everyone.
Live Music
There’s always music floating through the high-mountain air—so much that we can’t list it all here. Check out the following links and get tuned into all the music happening in the area: Tucker County Event Calendar | The Purple Fiddle | Wicked Wilderness Pub | Mountain State Brewing Co.
Opening Day at Canaan Valley Resort Ski Area: December 13
The valley’s famous lift-served ski resort is opening with early-season only $13 lift tickets and upgraded snowmaking. Come celebrate opening day around the resort.
Snowshoe Discovery Tour at White Grass: December 15
Explore the winter wonderland with a natural history snowshoe walk. Stroll through the woods while listening to local legend Chip Chase gab about the history of skiing, nature and quirky climate facts. Runs from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Christmas Buffets at Canaan Valley Resort: December 24 & 25
- Christmas Eve buffet: 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
- Christmas dinner buffet: 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Celebrate the season with traditional Christmas Eve and Christmas day buffet dinners.
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Canaan Valley Resort: December 31
Canaan Valley Resort invites you to ring in 2020 in the mountains. Ski by day, enjoy the evening buffet, and party by night. A family party is available so parents can spend the evening with their children. Family party includes DJ entertainment, activities, and contest. Punch and party favors will be provided at midnight.
White Grass Winter Trails Day 2019: January 4
Free lessons, area use, and clinics to all first-time interested skiers or snowshoers. XC lessons every hour plus a 10 am and 2 pm clinic on types of snowshoes, clothing, basic techniques, and outdoor winter snow travel followed by a natural history tour on snowshoes into our neighboring National Wildlife Refuge.
