Wintergreen Resort Skiing in Virginia
Perched atop the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Wintergreen Resort offers an accessible and enjoyable winter escape for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. This four-season destination spans over 11,000 acres but shines in winter with 129 skiable acres, a solid 1,003-foot vertical drop, and stunning valley views. Whether you’re a family looking for gentle slopes, an intermediate carving cruisers, or an advanced rider seeking steep challenges, Wintergreen Resort skiing delivers reliable conditions thanks to extensive snowmaking and a thoughtful mountain layout.
What truly sets Wintergreen Resort skiing apart from other East Coast options is its unique mountain-top design—amenities cluster at higher elevations rather than the traditional base setup—providing convenient access and breathtaking panoramas. Compared to other Virginia resorts like Massanutten or Bryce, Wintergreen boasts more vertical drop, a broader trail variety, and 100% snowmaking coverage for dependable coverage even in variable winters.
Exploring the Terrain
Wintergreen Resort skiing features 26 trails (some sources note 27) across 129 acres, broken down roughly as 23% beginner, 35% intermediate, and 42% advanced. Beginners thrive on gentle greens like Dobie and the dedicated teaching areas, perfect for building confidence without intimidation. Intermediates enjoy flowing blues such as Eagles Swoop and Tyro (the longest run at about 1.4 miles), ideal for cruising with scenic overlooks.
Advanced skiers and riders find excitement on steeper blacks like Wild Turkey or Big Acorn, with challenging drops and wooded sections that add variety to the Blue Ridge terrain. The resort’s terrain park stands out, featuring jumps, rails, boxes, and other freestyle elements suitable for progression—often praised as one of the best in the region. Night skiing lights up a significant portion of the mountain (around 54%), letting you extend your day into the evening for quieter runs or after-work sessions—a nice perk not always available elsewhere.
Grooming is consistent, and the 100% snowmaking ensures smooth, reliable surfaces. The varied layout mixes open bowls, tree-lined glades, and connected cross-trails, offering more diversity than many smaller Virginia hills while remaining manageable compared to massive Northeastern resorts.
Getting Around the Mountain
Five lifts serve the slopes, including two high-speed six-person chairs (like the Blue Ridge Express and Highlands Express) that whisk you up quickly, plus additional chairs and surface lifts for beginners. With a lift capacity around 11,200 riders per hour, lines stay short even on busier days.
The mountain’s reverse layout—key amenities at the top—makes navigation straightforward: lifts access distinct zones, and connecting trails let you move between areas easily. Download the resort’s trail map or app for real-time guidance, and consider mid-week visits for the most relaxed Wintergreen Resort skiing experience.
Ski Season Dates and Conditions
Wintergreen Resort skiing typically runs from mid-December to mid-March, with average openings around December 5–15 and closings near March 15 (weather permitting). Thanks to powerful snowmaking, the season often extends reliably, with projected days open around 100–120 in recent years.
Expect primarily machine-made snow for consistent coverage, supplemented by natural falls (average annual snowfall around 35 inches). Cold snaps allow aggressive snowmaking to build and expand terrain quickly. Early season brings fresh groomers, mid-winter offers peak powder days, and late season delivers softer spring conditions.
Where to Stay
On-mountain lodging keeps things convenient for Wintergreen Resort skiing. Options include slope-side condos and spacious vacation homes (sleeping 6–20+), many with kitchens, fireplaces, and decks overlooking the slopes or valleys. The Mountain Inn offers lodge-style guest rooms ideal for couples or smaller groups, with easy access to lifts and village amenities.
Blackrock Village puts you steps from shops, dining, and slopes, while Devils Knob areas offer proximity to the spa and other facilities. Resort-managed properties ensure quality, and many include perks like complimentary access to the aquatics center. For budget options, nearby towns like Nellysford provide alternatives, though on-site stays maximize convenience for multi-day trips. Book early for peak weekends and look for multi-night packages.
Where to Eat
Dining options cluster in the village for easy breaks between Wintergreen Resort skiing runs. The Copper Mine delivers upscale fare with mountain views, perfect for a hearty dinner. The Edge offers casual pub-style meals, burgers, and craft beers overlooking the slopes. Upper Crust Pizza serves quick slices, while Terrace Café and the Market & Deli handle grab-and-go sandwiches, coffee, and lighter bites.
Variety covers families, vegetarians, and après-ski cravings, with events like special dinners adding flavor. Cozy indoor spots make it easy to warm up and refuel.
Renting Ski Gear
Gear rentals are straightforward at the Mountain Inn base, offering skis, snowboards, boots, helmets, and packages. Affordable rates (often in the $30–$50 range for full-day) include fittings and tune-ups. Multi-day options save more, and demos let advanced riders test premium equipment.
Reserve online ahead to avoid lines and ensure availability for your Wintergreen Resort skiing plans.
What to Do When You’re Not Skiing
Wintergreen Resort skiing pairs perfectly with non-slope fun. Tubing at The Plunge—Virginia’s longest run—delivers high-speed thrills with a magic carpet return, great for all ages (sessions book fast). Ice skating, snowshoeing on trails, and kids’ areas like Ridgely’s Fun Park (with mini-tubing and play zones) keep everyone entertained.
Indoors, unwind at the spa, hit the arcade or climbing at Discovery Ridge Adventure Center, or enjoy fireside lounging and live music events. Paint-and-sip nights or casual gatherings add variety. These activities make Wintergreen a full vacation spot, not just a ski hill.
Pro Tips
Purchase lift tickets online in advance (prices often $70–$110 for adults) to secure spots and save. Lessons from certified instructors suit all levels—group for families, private for focused improvement.
Drive-up access is easy from major East Coast cities; check parking guidelines. Pack layers for changing weather, helmets for safety, and use the resort app for updates. Day trips work well, but weekends allow deeper immersion in Wintergreen Resort skiing.
Wintergreen Ski Deals
We have ski deals! To save on lift tickets, lodging, rentals, and more, browse our current Wintergreen ski deals.
Related Blogs
While there’s not a ton of skiing in Virginia, there’s plenty nearby! Check out these related blogs for more insights, tips and tricks for planning the perfect ski vacation. Click a link below to read more!