Just beyond Washington, D.C.’s urban sprawl and political corridors lie a different kind of terrain. A few hours’ drive reveals snow-covered slopes and ski resorts ready to challenge and entertain both novice and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Remember, just because you have green grass in your yard doesn’t mean ski resorts don’t have quality snow conditions. Almost all resorts today make machine-made snow, allowing skiers to enjoy the slopes for the entire ski season. Below you can explore five (5) of the closest skiing destinations accessible from Washington, D.C., showcasing what each has to offer:
Liberty Mountain Resort
The resort is nestled amidst the Catoctin Mountains. It is a serene backdrop for those trying skiing or snowboarding for the first time.
Location: Fairfield, Pennsylvania
Miles from Washington, D.C.: 78 miles
Miles from nearest airport: 55 miles from Harrisburg International Airport
Ski Season: Typically early December to mid-March
Mountain Stat’s
- Number of trails: 16 distinct trails
- Skiable acres: 100
- Number of lifts: 8, including chairlifts and surface lifts
- Vertical drop: 620 feet
- Snow-making: Yes, 100% terrain coverage
- Terrain Park: Yes
- Night skiing: Yes
- Rentals: Ski and snowboard rentals are available.
- Ski School: Comprehensive programs for beginners to intermediates.
Additional Information
- On-Mountain Ski Lodge: Highland Lodge is a modern facility with expansive windows offering panoramic mountain views. It is ideal for skiers to relax after a day on the slopes.
- Local Lodging: Liberty Mountain Resort Hotel, Fairfield Inn & Suites, The Lodges at Gettysburg, Wyndham Gettysburg.
- Local Eateries: Eagle & The Owl, McKee’s Tavern, Taverna 5450.
- Other Attractions: Boulder Ridge Snow Tubing
See Liberty Mountain Resort trail map, full mountain stat’s, amenities, weather forecast and more
Whitetail Resort
This resort offers terrain for all but is known as a destination for those seeking challenging slopes with a focus on intermediate to advanced trails.
- Location: Mercersburg, Pennsylvania
- Miles from Washington, D.C.: 92 miles
- Miles from nearest airport: 92 miles from Harrisburg International Airport
- Ski Season: Typically early December to late March
Mountain Stat’s
- Number of trails: 23 diverse trails
- Skiable acres: 109
- Number of lifts: 8, including high-speed quads
- Vertical drop: 935 feet
- Snow-making: Yes, 100% terrain coverage
- Terrain Park: Yes
- Night skiing: Yes
- Rentals: Offers a broad range of ski and snowboard gear for rent
- Ski School: Renowned for its advanced coaching for all ages
Additional Information
- On-Mountain Ski Lodges: Whitetail Mountain Lodge has a rustic charm, an open fireplace, a cafeteria, and spacious lounging areas for a cozy respite.
- Local Lodging: Mercersburg Inn, Whitetail Mountainside Village, James Buchanan Hotel
- Local Eateries: The Trailside Grill, Daybreak Cafe, Mountain Hearth pizzeria, Solstice Restaurant
- Other Attractions: Onsite snow tubing park
See Whitetail Resort trail map, full mountain stat’s, amenities, weather forecast and more
Roundtop Mountain Resort
Roundtop offers a balanced experience with terrains for all levels and standout terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts.
Location: Lewisberry, Pennsylvania
Miles from Washington, D.C.: 118 miles
Miles from nearest airport: 18 miles from Harrisburg International Airport
Ski Season: Typically early December to late March
Mountain Stat’s
- Number of trails: 18 varying trails
- Skiable acres: 100
- Number of lifts: 7, including a mix of chairlifts and surface lifts
- Vertical drop: 600 feet
- Snow-making: Yes, 100% terrain coverage
- Terrain Park: Yes
- Night skiing: Yes
- Rentals: Full ski and snowboard rental facilities
- Ski School: Offers beginner packages and private lessons
Additional Information
- On-Mountain Ski Lodge: The main lodge has a classic mountain retreat feel with large communal areas, dining sections, and a balcony overlooking the mountain.
- Local Lodging: Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, Quality Inn Riverview, Red Carpet Inn
- Local Eateries: Coffee shop, Fireside Pub & Grill, Smokehouse
- Other Attractions: Snow tubing with lodge. More
See Roundtop Mountain Resort trail map, full mountain stat’s, amenities, weather forecast and more
Bryce Resort
Bryce Resort is a haven for beginners with a renowned learning program and trails crafted for easy to intermediate levels.
Location: Basye, Virginia
Miles from Washington, D.C.: 119 miles
Miles from nearest airport: 60 miles from Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport
Ski Season: Typically mid-December to early March
Mountain Stat’s
- Number of trails: 10 well-maintained slopes
- Skiable acres: 25
- Number of lifts: 7, including 4 surface lifts
- Vertical Drop: 500 feet
- Snow-making: Yes, with coverage on most trails
- Terrain Park: No
- Night Skiing: Yes
- Rentals: Equipped with a wide range of beginner-friendly gear for rent.
- Ski School: Highly recommended for its beginner-focused programs.
Additional Information
- On-Mountain Ski Lodge: Bryce Resort Lodge is quaint with wood-paneled interiors and a family-friendly environment, casual dining area, and lounge.
- Local Lodging: Comfort Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn
- Local Eateries: Copper Kettle Bar & Restaurant, Swover Creek Farms and Brewery, Italian Touch
- Other Attractions: Tubing park and ice skating
See Bryce Resort trail map, full mountain stat’s, amenities, weather forecast and more
Wintergreen Resort
Wintergreen is celebrated for its exceptional skiing and diverse winter activities.
Location: Roseland, Virginia
Miles from Washington, D.C.: Approximately 157 miles
Miles from nearest airport: Roughly 49 miles from Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport (CHO)
Ski Season: Typically runs from mid-December to early March, contingent on weather conditions
Mountain Stat’s
- Number of trails: 27 trails catering to a range of skill sets
- Skiable acres: Over 129 skiable acres
- Number of lifts: 8, including two high-speed six-pack and two beginner-centric magic carpets
- Vertical Drop: 1,003 feet
- Snow-making: Boasts an advanced snow-making system that covers almost all skiing terrains
- Night Skiing: Yes
- Terrain Park: Yes
- Rentals: Provides a comprehensive selection of ski and snowboard equipment suitable for all levels.
- Ski School: Known for its wide array of instructional programs tailored for every age and skill level, from novice skiers to seasoned snowboarders.
Additional Information
- On-Mountain Ski Lodge: Wintergreen Resort Lodge exudes rustic charm. This lodge is known for its expansive interiors that offer panoramic mountain views, a comfortable dining space, and a welcoming lounge.
- Local Lodging: Choices span from studio suites to exclusive homes within Wintergreen Resort, with The Mountain Inn being a central option.
- Local Eateries: The Edge, The Copper Mine Bistro, Devils Grill
- Other Attractions: Attractions include “The Plunge” snow tubing park
See Wintergreen Resort trail map, full mountain stat’s, amenities, weather forecast and more
What are you waiting for? The blend of majestic slopes, historic towns, and captivating local tales makes skiing near Washington, D.C., truly unparalleled. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting, a resort catered to your needs is waiting to be explored. HAVE FUN!
Didn’t see the resort you were looking for? Explore all resorts near Washington, D.C. or any other U.S. destination.
