Every year, our family plans a ski trip with one goal in mind: fun for everyone. This time, we headed to Snowshoe Mountain in West Virginia, just 5.5–6 hours from Cleveland. The scenic drive set the stage for a memorable winter adventure filled with skiing, cozy mountain lodging, and family-friendly activities.
🏡 Where to Stay
Snowshoe Mountain Resort offers plenty of family-friendly lodging options, including:
- Ski-in/ski-out homes
- Village condos
- Mountainside homes with shuttle service
Our favorite spot was Black Bear Crossing Townhouses, which can comfortably sleep up to 16 people with full kitchens and hot tubs. The townhouses are ski-in/ski-out and just a quick drive to the mountain village, ski school, daycare, and Snow Basin area—perfect for families.
🎿 Skiing at Snowshoe
Snowshoe Mountain sits at 4,848 feet, with 257 acres of skiable terrain, 1,500 vertical feet, and 60 trails. Trails are spread across three areas:
- Snow Basin (main mountain area)
- Silver Creek (short shuttle ride away)
- Western Territory (long, challenging runs)
Trail difficulty is varied, so skiers of all levels can find their match. Snowshoe averages 150 inches of snowfall per year, and excellent snowmaking ensures great conditions even in less-than-perfect winters.
Our family loved exploring terrain parks, tree runs, and long cruisers, with plenty of options for intermediate and advanced skiers while beginners had gentle slopes near the base areas.
🧒 Lessons & Childcare
Snowshoe makes it easy for kids to learn and grow on the slopes. Lessons are available for children ages 4 and up, with small groups and friendly instructors teaching beginners through advanced skiers and snowboarders.
For little ones not ready for the slopes, Snowshoe offers a pre-ski center for ages 2–4, with attentive staff keeping them entertained and safe while parents enjoy runs on the mountain.
Pro Tips: For a quieter experience, plan your visit on weekdays to skip the crowds.
🍹 Après-Ski Fun
After skiing, Snowshoe offers plenty of family-friendly activities, including:
- Swimming at Split Rock Pool
- Snow tubing and night skiing at Silver Creek
- Relaxing at a full-service spa
- Horseback riding and sleigh rides
- Fun evenings at Bear’s Den
- Delicious dining throughout the village
Evenings were a mix of relaxation, family games, and exploring the village, making each day feel complete.
💛 Why Families Will Love Snowshoe
Snowshoe Mountain Resort is ideal for families seeking:
- Varied trails for all skill levels
- Ski lessons and childcare for younger children
- Fun après-ski activities for all ages
- A welcoming and scenic mountain atmosphere
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just want to enjoy West Virginia’s winter beauty, Snowshoe delivers adventure, relaxation, and family memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are some other favorite ski resorts in the Midwest and East:
Click here for road trip tips when traveling with kids.
