The capital of the United States and a historic city, ski resorts may not be the first thing you think of when visiting Washington, D.C. Winter sports enthusiasts will be happy to know many options are available to them to hit the slopes. Ski resorts near the nation’s capital offer a variety of snow and outdoor sports as well as accommodation and amenities for the whole family. Here are a few of the top slopes and mountain peaks in the D.C. area.
Massanutten Resort
Under 3 hours outside of the Washington, D.C. area, you can find yourself in an actual mountain village, reminiscent of the Swiss Alps. At Massanutten Resort in Virginia, the grounds stretch on for over 6,000 acres. What makes Massanutten one-of-a-kind is its sheer size and an extensive list of activities and amenities. Aside from the snow sports of skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing, there is also an entire waterpark onsite. In warmer seasons you can hike, bike, play basketball, table tennis, tennis, volleyball, and more. While family-friendly, couples can also enjoy the cocktail lounge, club, and restaurants on-site too. Hot tubs, Jacuzzis, swimming pools and saunas are also available for necessary relaxation and rejuvenation.
Bryce Mountain Resort
Located within 2 hours of D.C., Bryce Mountain Resort outside of Basye, Virginia, is a great day trip destination. Although a bit smaller than some of the other resorts, Bryce Mountain is a year-round location for those with beginner to advanced skill sets. It’s renowned for its award-winning ski and snowboard school, so bring the kids out for some lessons on the slopes. The resort is also a popular destination for hiking, biking, tubing, zip-lining, boating, and even golfing. There are no on-site accommodations, but several hotels and lodges are nearby.
Liberty Mountain Resort
Liberty Mountain Resort in Fairfield, Pennsylvania, is a roughly 1.5-hour drive from D.C., and about 10 miles from historic Gettysburg. The resort sits on over 250 acres and is full of mountain views for you to enjoy while skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing. The main lodge on-site features a spa and pools for recuperation from a day of intense activities. To feel further rejuvenated, ease your aching muscles and recover from any spills with a massage from the wellness spa. A wide range of personal care and treatments such as natural fruits body scrubs rich in antioxidants are also available. Go to Liberty Mountain Resort to enjoy playing in the snow and pampering while you’re at it.
White Grass Touring Center
If cross-country skiing is your thing, then head to Tucker County, West Virginia, about 3 hours from D.C. Here you will find the White Grass Touring Center, which offers all levels of cross-country skiing. The center’s mostly flat terrain is perfect for learning or improving existing skills. 160 inches of powdery snow grace the more than 35 miles of trails every year. Feel good while cross country skiing. The ski area’s electricity usage is less than the average American home and don’t forget to check out the on-site natural foods store as well.
Roundtop Mountain Resort
Roundtop Mountain Resort is 114 miles from D.C. in Lewis Berry, Pennsylvania. The resort offers year-round excitement for all ages and skill-sets. Some of the featured activities include OGO balls, climbing, mazes, bumper boats, zip lines, paintballing, skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. The resort boasts nearly 600 acres of terrain to explore and has a 1,400-foot summit, a 600-foot vertical drop, eight lifts, and 20 runs. With an abundance of space and year-round activities, Roundtop has something for everyone.
If you’re coming to D.C. to check out the nation’s intriguing history and monuments, don’t forget to plan a day trip out to some of the nearby summits. The snowpack is great for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow and outdoor sports. Bring the whole family and enjoy a variety of other activities and amenities in the off-season as well. There is more to D.C. than just legislation and history!
