Your Winter Guide To Pocahontas County, West Virginia
In Pocahontas County, West Virginia, winter brings a quieter kind of thrill. Chase the rush of fresh powder at Snowshoe Mountain Resort, or find stillness along snow-covered trails built for hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Use this guide to discover the top winter experiences across the county.
Plan Your Winter Getaway Now
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Hit The Slopes
Begin your adventure at Snowshoe Mountain Resort, the Mid-Atlantic’s premier destination for winter recreation. At an elevation of 4,848 feet, Snowshoe offers more than 60 skiing and snowboarding trails for every level — from gentle beginner runs to adrenaline-pumping challenges. Freestyle riders can take on five terrain parks packed with sculpted features, while night skiing offers a one-of-a-kind way to enjoy the slopes under the stars.
In partnership with Challenged Athletes of West Virginia, Snowshoe ensures skiing is for everyone. Its adaptive program provides one-on-one lessons with trained instructors ready to work with guests of all abilities.
Slide Into Fun
For a family favorite, head to Snowshoe Mountain Resort’s Coca-Cola Tubing Park. With a six-story, eight-lane hill, it’s nonstop excitement for kids and adults alike. After dark, the fun lights up during Galactic Snow Tubing, where glowing colors turn the mountain into a neon wonderland.
Glide Through The Wilderness
Trade steep runs for peaceful glides through the frosty wilderness. The Cranberry Wilderness Area offers over 100 miles of trails — including a challenging 20-mile ski loop — where you can explore the season’s quiet beauty.
The Highland Scenic Highway offers another incredible cross-country experience. This 23-mile stretch of unplowed roadway offers stunning wintry vistas in a tranquil atmosphere. Note that the highway is not maintained during winter, so plan to park at the northern access point (off Route 219 N) or southern access (off Route 39 W, across from the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center) before setting out.
Make Fresh Tracks
Step into solitude and make fresh tracks along the Greenbrier River Trail. Spanning Hillsboro, Marlinton and Cass, this 78-mile path transforms into a snowy stretch ideal for snowshoeing. With its gentle grade, it’s perfect for families or anyone looking to take their time and enjoy the view. For open vistas, explore the Tea Creek area in the Monongahela National Forest, a serene spot known for wildlife watching and soft, rolling terrain.
New to snowshoeing? The Elk River Touring Center makes it easy to get started with rentals, lessons and access to more than 15 miles of groomed trails that connect directly to the Monongahela National Forest.
Hike To Frosty Views
- Monongahela National Forest
- Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
- Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
- West Fork Trail
Bundle up and hike to scenic views. Wander through snow-dusted evergreens in the Monongahela National Forest, from the frozen Falls of Hills Creek to the 2.7-mile Williams River Trail. For something truly unique, visit the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, where a half-mile boardwalk winds through frozen bogs.
At Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, history meets natural beauty. Follow trails marked with Civil War interpretive signs and climb the lookout tower for sweeping views of the Greenbrier River Valley blanketed in snow. The West Fork Trail also offers solitude, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in winter’s calm.
As weather conditions may vary, be sure to check with the Pocahontas County CVB for trail and road updates before setting out.
Explore Beyond The Slopes
From magical train rides through snowy mountains to peaceful moments spent fishing in cold-water streams, Pocahontas County offers plenty to explore beyond the slopes. Take an out-of-this-world tour at the Green Bank Observatory, shop local in our mountain towns and enjoy hearty Appalachian flavors at nearby restaurants and cafes.
Unwind with a cozy place to stay — from log cabins tucked among the trees, mountainside condos with sunset views or welcoming inns brimming with warm hospitality.
Roam and Rest This Winter
Whether you’re carving through fresh snow, gliding along quiet trails or watching flakes fall from the comfort of a cabin, winter in Pocahontas County invites you to slow down, explore and truly rest.
Request your free Adventure Guide to start planning your getaway to Nature’s Mountain Playground.