How About Some SNOW: Spring Ski at White Grass

By IAN EDLIND
Falls Church Times Outdoors Writer

March 4, 2010

It’s tough to say goodbye. With warmer weather in the forecast our beloved four feet of snow could be gone in a matter of days. Snow — you will be missed.

Let’s get real — most of us can’t wait to say goodbye. But for the ski hounds among us, all is not lost. Four hours west of Falls Church, in a little valley known as “Canaan,” the endless winter continues.

Everything about White Grass, a Canaan Valley, West Virginia, ski mountain, oozes Appalachian charm: the southern hospitality of the ski instructors; the hearty vegetarian chili served up in the lodge; and the boundless enthusiasm of the owner, Chip Chase. Here, white-collar Washington DC professionals mingle with West Virginia country boys, all in the name of snow and smiles.

However, there is something noticeably absent from White Grass. There are no lifts. The motto here is, “Earn your turns.”

A White Grass cross-country skier glides along the trail.

Skiing Options

First, a primer:

Cross-County Skiing — Skiing on trails that are typically groomed with a set of tracks. The skis are long, thin, and lack metal edges (in most cases).

Backcountry Skiing — Backcountry skiers seek out technical, ungroomed terrain. White Grass rents beefier free-heel skis (with metal edges) for backcountry skiers.

Telemark Skiing — Similar to backcountry skiing, but the equipment supports a flexed-knee downhill skiing technique.

White Grass promotes and offers rentals for all three types. This article will focus on cross-country skiing, the most basic and beginner-friendly of the three, as well as snowshoeing, the snowy equivalent of hiking.

Trails & Terrain

Charm without substance breeds disappointment. Fortunately, White Grass backs up its good-natured personality with fantastic skiing — just look at these facts:

• 25-30 km of groomed trails
• 1196 feet vertical
• Trails reach Bald Knob (4308 feet) — Canaan Valley’s highest point (and best views)
• Varied terrain options include steep open slopes and black diamond tree skiing for experts

For those new to the sport of cross-country skiing, ascending Bald Knob is not a realistic goal. Not to worry — White Grass caters to beginners with easily accessible options like Gandalf’s Trail, Three Mile Trail, and the famous Snow Farm (used when snow coverage is lacking).

Snowshoers, meanwhile, can hike as far and high as time and fitness allow. Considering the learning curve (“if you can walk, you can snowshoe”), your White Grass trail options are pretty much limitless.

White Grass Lodge

Ski Instruction

Like any ski resort, the White Grass staff is heavily invested in your enjoyment. Simply put, they want you to come back. Customer relations come naturally to the enthusiastic and accessible instructional staff. Ski classes for groups and individuals of all levels are available — ask at the counter for the “Mini” (15 minute breakdown of the basics) or an hour-long group lesson.

When to Go

White Grass advertises an average of 160 inches of snow per year. This winter, however, White Grass boasts 250 inches and counting. According to Chip and team, conditions are officially “epic” and will likely remain so throughout March.
The final remnants of our record snow fall are melting into oblivion, but don’t be discouraged. Our Canaan Valley neighbors can help you get your snow sliding fix.

Location / Directions: Davis, WV; approximately 3.5 hours from DC
Note: I-270 > I-70 > I-68 route is recommended in hazardous weather conditions
Mountain Stats: 50+ km of trails (25-30 km groomed); 1196 ft. vertical
Difficulty: High; Beginner trails and instruction are available
Trail Map: White Grass Trail Map
Need a place to stay? Bluegrass-obsessed Purple Fiddle in Thomas is top-notch for value and atmosphere.

(Ian Edlind is a Falls Church resident with a passion for the outdoors. A version of this article appears on his website Trail Voice — dedicated to outdoor recreation and stewardship in the Washington DC area.)