Written by Jack Taylor / Photos by Jack Taylor
Last updated May 20, 2022
Ok, so there’s no skiing actually in the District of Columbia, but you don’t have to travel far from the capital to hit the slopes. Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland are all home to winter resorts where you can enjoy much more than just skiing, so here’s our pick of the best ski resorts near Washington DC!
- 1Snowshoe Mountain
- 2Seven Springs Mountain Resort
- 3Liberty
- 4Whitetail
- 5Massanutten Resort
- 6Wisp Resort
1. Snowshoe Mountain
Distance from Washington DC - 221 miles (4.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Snowshoe Mountain
Snowshoe is one of those ski resorts where the base is at the top of the mountain, so you don’t need to ride a lift up before your first ride down! Book a room or condo at the four-star Allegheny Springs to start skiing from the moment you step outside, and you’ll also be just a short stroll from all the restaurants, bars, and shops in the village. Being in West Virginia makes Snowshoe the furthest ski resort from DC on this list, but it really is worth the trip if you want to feel like you’ve been transported to a winter wonderland.
Known for
Charming alpine village with lots of ski-in/ski-out accommodation and trails for all abilities
Highlights
- Plenty of snow, more than 180 inches on average each winter
- Part of the resort is dedicated to challenging trails for advanced skiers
- One of the biggest ski areas in the Mid-Atlantic states
- Isolated location can mean a long journey to get here
22/23Ski Season:
- Opening Date:Nov 23 2022
- Closing Date:Apr 02 2023
Closest airports
North Central West Virginia Airport
-
109 miles (2.5 hour drive)
Pittsburgh Intl. Airport
-
197 miles (4 hour drive)
Reagan National Airport
-
221 miles (4.5 hour drive)
Distance from Washington DC - 221 miles (4.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Snowshoe Mountain
Snowshoe is one of those ski resorts where the base is at the top of the mountain, so you don’t need to ride a lift up before your first ride down! Book a room or condo at the four-star Allegheny Springs to start skiing from the moment you step outside, and you’ll also be just a short stroll from all the restaurants, bars, and shops in the village. Being in West Virginia makes Snowshoe the furthest ski resort from DC on this list, but it really is worth the trip if you want to feel like you’ve been transported to a winter wonderland.
- View Snowshoe Mountain Ski Packages
2. Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Distance from Washington DC - 190 miles (3.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Nestled within Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, Seven Springs is arguably the best ski resort in the East for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. With a total of six unique terrain parks plus a 22 feet superpipe, it’s no surprise the U.S. Revolution Tour makes a stop here. But you don’t even have to ski to have a good time at Seven Springs. There are snowmobile tours, snowcat excursions, and even sleigh rides to enjoy, plus indoor activities like a bowling alley and roller-skating rink. After dark many slopes and parks are kept open, plus there’s live music at the Foggy Goggle and DJs at The Matterhorn nightclub.
Known for
Versatile ski area featuring top-class terrain parks and excellent facilities at the base lodge
Highlights
- Plenty of powder-filled glades to explore between the groomed trails
- On-site bar and nightclub hosts après-ski parties
- 200 acres of the mountain is floodlit for night skiing
- Activities and amenities offered by the resort are a little pricey
22/23Ski Season:
- Opening Date:Nov 25 2022
- Closing Date:May 02 2023
Closest airports
Pittsburgh Intl. Airport
-
77 miles (1.5 hour drive)
Reagan National Airport
-
195 miles (3.5 hour drive)
Distance from Washington DC - 190 miles (3.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Seven Springs Mountain Resort
Nestled within Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands, Seven Springs is arguably the best ski resort in the East for freestyle skiers and snowboarders. With a total of six unique terrain parks plus a 22 feet superpipe, it’s no surprise the U.S. Revolution Tour makes a stop here. But you don’t even have to ski to have a good time at Seven Springs. There are snowmobile tours, snowcat excursions, and even sleigh rides to enjoy, plus indoor activities like a bowling alley and roller-skating rink. After dark many slopes and parks are kept open, plus there’s live music at the Foggy Goggle and DJs at The Matterhorn nightclub.
- View Seven Springs Mountain Resort Ski Packages
3. Liberty
Distance from Washington DC - 75 miles (1.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Liberty
Liberty can be reached from DC in little over an hours’ drive, so if you’re looking for a quick snow fix this is the place for you. The varied trails offer something to suit all skiing abilities, and to maximize your time on the mountain all the slopes are open every day for night skiing. If you wake up with sore muscles book yourself in for a soothing Swedish massage at the Laventide Salon & Day Spa! This southern Pennsylvania ski resort is also just 8 miles from the Gettysburg battlefield, so if you have time don’t miss visiting this famous historic site.
Known for
Easy-to-reach mountain that’s popular with locals and perfect for a short trip
Highlights
- Closest ski resort to Washington DC
- Excellent snowmaking operation covers 100% of the trails
- Multi-lane snowtubing slope with its own surface lift
- Slopes can get crowded, particularly on weekends
23/24Ski Season:
- Opening Date:Jan 07 2023
- Closing Date:Mar 16 2025*(Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Reagan National Airport
-
79 miles (1.5 hour drive)
Distance from Washington DC - 75 miles (1.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Liberty
Liberty can be reached from DC in little over an hours’ drive, so if you’re looking for a quick snow fix this is the place for you. The varied trails offer something to suit all skiing abilities, and to maximize your time on the mountain all the slopes are open every day for night skiing. If you wake up with sore muscles book yourself in for a soothing Swedish massage at the Laventide Salon & Day Spa! This southern Pennsylvania ski resort is also just 8 miles from the Gettysburg battlefield, so if you have time don’t miss visiting this famous historic site.
- View Liberty Ski Packages
4. Whitetail
Distance from Washington DC - 86 miles (2 hour drive)
Why Ski Whitetail
Almost half the ski runs here are blues, making Whitetail perfect for intermediates who want carve groomers all day. The Kid’s Mountain Camp offers expert tuition alongside fun group activities for children aged 4 to 12, and there’s also childcare available to look after younger ones. Night skiing is also available from 4pm to 10pm daily however there isn’t much at the base so you’ll have to look elsewhere for entertainment. Next door is the Whitetail Mountainside Village, offering comfy condos and cottages, and a short drive away is Mercersburg Inn, a Georgian mansion with upscale rooms and gourmet cuisine at Bryon’s Dining Room.
Known for
Modern ski resort with a fast lift system and an excellent snow sports programme for kids
Highlights
- Mountain terrain is conveniently split up to suit different abilities
- Plenty of snow guns to keep the slopes in good condition
- Laidback resort with good amenities and friendly staff
- Not much of an après-ski scene
22/23Ski Season:
- Opening Date:Dec 24 2022
- Closing Date:Mar 07 2023
Closest airports
Reagan National Airport
-
91 miles (1.5 hour drive)
Distance from Washington DC - 86 miles (2 hour drive)
Why Ski Whitetail
Almost half the ski runs here are blues, making Whitetail perfect for intermediates who want carve groomers all day. The Kid’s Mountain Camp offers expert tuition alongside fun group activities for children aged 4 to 12, and there’s also childcare available to look after younger ones. Night skiing is also available from 4pm to 10pm daily however there isn’t much at the base so you’ll have to look elsewhere for entertainment. Next door is the Whitetail Mountainside Village, offering comfy condos and cottages, and a short drive away is Mercersburg Inn, a Georgian mansion with upscale rooms and gourmet cuisine at Bryon’s Dining Room.
- View Whitetail Ski Packages
5. Massanutten Resort
Distance from Washington DC - 120 miles (2.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Massanutten Resort
Virginia isn’t famous for its skiing, but the Massanutten Resort sure makes the most of the terrain on offer in the Blue Ridge Mountains. An even mix of green, blue, and black trails provides the opportunity to practice and progress, plus the mellow terrain parks are perfect for trying a trick or two. It’s a great place for families who are new to skiing and want to learn together, but the resort also offers so much more than just snowy slopes. Don’t miss the enormous indoor water park complete with slides, rapids, and a FlowRider wave machine, or the 4,930 square feet outdoor rink for ice-skating!
Known for
Family-friendly ski area with wide tree-lined runs and amazing leisure facilities
Highlights
- Large beginners area with a dedicated chairlift
- Expertly groomed slopes
- High-quality hotel rooms, condos, and chalets available
- Only 70 acres of skiable terrain
22/23Ski Season:
- Opening Date:Nov 25 2022
- Closing Date:Mar 05 2023
Closest airports
Reagan National Airport
-
121 miles (2.5 hour drive)
Distance from Washington DC - 120 miles (2.5 hour drive)
Why Ski Massanutten Resort
Virginia isn’t famous for its skiing, but the Massanutten Resort sure makes the most of the terrain on offer in the Blue Ridge Mountains. An even mix of green, blue, and black trails provides the opportunity to practice and progress, plus the mellow terrain parks are perfect for trying a trick or two. It’s a great place for families who are new to skiing and want to learn together, but the resort also offers so much more than just snowy slopes. Don’t miss the enormous indoor water park complete with slides, rapids, and a FlowRider wave machine, or the 4,930 square feet outdoor rink for ice-skating!
6. Wisp Resort
Distance from Washington DC - 175 miles (3 hour drive)
Why Ski Wisp Resort
Wisp enjoys the distinction of being Maryland’s only ski resort and at just 3 hours’ drive from Washington DC makes for a perfect weekend trip. The 33 trails here amount to 11 miles of on-piste skiing, plus you’ll find inbound glades and a handful of terrain parks too. The slopes stay open for a few hours after dark most days of the week if you’re really keen, otherwise drop by DC's Bar & Restaurant at the base lodge for their popular drink specials. And being right next to Deep Creek Lake has another bonus besides the wonderful views; there are lots of great deals on summer lakeside lodging to be had during the winter!
Known for
Lakeside ski resort renowned for its lively après-ski and spectacular winter scenery
Highlights
- Mellow slopes are perfect for improving your skills
- Mountain Coaster provides a thrilling ride for non-skiers
- Lots of trails for cross country skiing
- Not much terrain to satisfy experienced skiers
22/23Ski Season:
- Opening Date:Nov 25 2022
- Closing Date:Mar 26 2023
Closest airports
Pittsburgh Intl. Airport
-
125 miles (2 hour drive)
Reagan National Airport
-
180 miles (3 hour drive)
Distance from Washington DC - 175 miles (3 hour drive)
Why Ski Wisp Resort
Wisp enjoys the distinction of being Maryland’s only ski resort and at just 3 hours’ drive from Washington DC makes for a perfect weekend trip. The 33 trails here amount to 11 miles of on-piste skiing, plus you’ll find inbound glades and a handful of terrain parks too. The slopes stay open for a few hours after dark most days of the week if you’re really keen, otherwise drop by DC's Bar & Restaurant at the base lodge for their popular drink specials. And being right next to Deep Creek Lake has another bonus besides the wonderful views; there are lots of great deals on summer lakeside lodging to be had during the winter!
