The nation’s capital, Washington DC, isn’t exactly known as a top skiing spot in the United States. DC has a lot to offer, including historic monuments and buildings, fine dining, dozens of green spaces, and plenty of recreational activities, but it’s situated right near the coast and quite a distance from any major mountain ranges. Fortunately, if you do find yourself in the DC area and want to do some skiing, there are several excellent resorts within a 100-mile radius of the city itself, and many more for those who are willing to drive a little further. Some resorts can be reached within less than two hours, making them ideal locations for day trips or weekends away. Here are some addresses and overviews of the top ski resorts near Washington DC.
Whitetail Ski Resort
This four-season resort is one of the closest to DC, being about 90 minutes away by car. Opened up back in 1991, Whitetail Mountain provides 109 acres of skiable ground with 25 different trails. There are plenty of beginner and intermediate runs to try out, as well as a few advanced trails too. Whitetail also features 9 ski lifts and is known as one of the best laid-out ski resorts in Pennsylvania. Ski and snowboard lessons can be booked at this location for newbies, and additional amenities are on-site including a food court. This is a very welcoming and family-friendly ski resort, with the staff making extra efforts to ensure that all guests feel fully at ease. There are even specialized programs to help people with mental difficulties learn to ski.
13805 Blairs Valley Rd, Mercersburg, PA 17236, Phone: 717-328-9400
Bryce Mountain Resort
Offering both summer and winter activities of all kinds, Bryce Mountain is about a two-hour drive from Washington DC and is a super spot to come with all the family. Both beginners and seasoned skiing pros will find a lot to love at this location, with snowboarding and sledding also available too. This member-owned resort is conveniently situated for other attractions and activities too, with nearby Shenandoah National Park providing hiking trails and more.
1982 Fairway Dr, Mt Jackson, VA 22842, Phone: 540-856-2121
Liberty Mountain Resort
If you're looking for the absolute nearest ski resort to Washington DC, Liberty Mountain Resort is the one for you. Liberty, which opened up back in the 1960s, is less than 80 miles outside of DC, meaning you can get there in a little over an hour. 100 acres of skiable land can be found at Liberty Mountain, with the site being conveniently located near historic Gettysburg. Nine ski lifts and 22 runs can be found at this resort, including a good mixture of beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert trails. Lodging can be found on site, along with multiple restaurants and bars.
78 Country Club Trail, Fairfield, PA 17320, Phone: 717-642-8282
Wisp Ski Resort
The one and only four-season ski resort in the entire state of Maryland, Wisp is a must-visit location for anyone with an interest in skiing near DC. Located near Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County, MD, Wisp features 34 different runs. It's a bit of a drive from DC, taking up to three hours in a car, but is worth the journey, being ranked as one of the best ski resorts in the area, with a good range of easy, medium, and difficult trails for people of all abilities to enjoy. This ski resort also has a tubing park and ice skating rink for anyone interested in trying out some other winter activities. The surrounding scenery at Wisp is simply beautiful, helping to set this ski resort apart as a must-visit Maryland location.
296 Marsh Hill Rd, McHenry, MD 21541, Phone: 301-859-3159
Canaan Valley
Located in West Virginia, this location was the first ever ski resort in the state. Canaan Valley is a year-round resort with dozens of recreational activities available through all four seasons. Skiing at Canaan Valley can be a lot of fun, with over 40 different trails to enjoy and snow-making equipment in effect on the majority of the mountain. The resort is also fitted out with luxury lodging and amenities, including multiple eateries and a fitness center. Swimming pools, a spa, and a full golf course are also located at this deluxe resort, with many hiking and cross-country skiing trails waiting to be discovered as well.
Canaan Valley Resort State Park 230 Main Lodge Road Davis, WV 26260, Phone: 800-622-4121
