Governor Morrisey encourages tourism at WV’s Winter Wonderland attractions amid record growth

Recently, Governor Patrick Morrisey encouraged travelers to explore West Virginia’s winter offerings as the state looks to close out 2025 with record-breaking tourism growth.
“From mountain resorts and state parks to holiday light displays and hometown celebrations, winter tourism supports jobs, strengthens communities, and drives our economy,” said Governor Morrisey at a press conference at Winterplace Ski Resort. “We’re encouraging everyone to get out, explore, shop local, and help us finish 2025 strong.”
This year’s ski season began earlier this month with Timberline Mountain opening Dec. 4, Snowshoe Mountain on Dec. 5, and Winterplace Ski Resort on Dec. 6. All five of West Virginia’s ski resorts are now open, offering excellent conditions statewide.
Winter tourism is expected to bring more than 18.5 million visitors this season. Earlier this year, the state surpassed $9.1 billion in annual tourism economic impact, with 77.2 million visitors spending $6.6 billion, a new all-time record and a 28 percent increase over pre-pandemic levels. Tourism supports nearly 61,000 jobs and generated $1.1 billion in tax revenue last year.
West Virginia’s resorts play an important part of this effort. Timberline features more than 20 trails and a high-speed six-person chairlift. Snowshoe has more than 60 skiing and snowboarding routes, snowtubing, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a village of shops and restaurants. Winterplace provides nearly 30 trails, two terrain parks, and the state’s longest snowtubing run. Winterplace was recently named USA Today’s Best Place to Learn How to Ski and a top snowtubing destination.
“I’m so excited about the amazing start we’ve had to the 2025-26 winter season so far,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “We’ve been able to give travelers an early taste of authentic skiing right here in the Mountain State. With experienced instructors and beginner-friendly terrain, our wonderful resorts make Almost Heaven, West Virginia, one of the best places in the country to learn to ski.”
Beyond the slopes, the Mountain State offers the quintessential holiday experience. Families can stroll through dazzling light displays across the state, take a magical ride on the Polar Express, glide through snowy trails at the White Grass Ski Touring Center, or experience the thrill of tubing at Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry. Adventure seekers can tackle off-roading on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, explore breathtaking frozen waterfalls in state parks, or race down the Blackwater Falls Sled Run, the East Coast’s longest sled run, opening Dec. 18.
For those planning a winter getaway, travelers can also save 15 percent on stays of two nights or more at West Virginia state lodges and cabins using the code “JOLLY.” The offer excludes Stonewall Resort State Park and Blackwater Falls State Park. For details and to book, visit wvstateparks.com.
For a guide to planning your winter getaway, visit wvtourism.com.