Holiday Happenings at Snowshoe

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What is a better way to spend that holidays than high above the Allegheny Mountains atop Snowshoe?

Bueller?

Yeah, we couldn’t think of any either. The holidays here are absolutely wonderful. It is a time when the rugged beauty of the region, the warmth of the locals, and the nostalgia of those who have celebrated here before, come together to create an environment that will put a smile on even the coldest Grinch.

And while it is lovely, it is peak ski resort season. Fortunately, we’ve got loads of experience with this and have assembled some plans and tips that can help turn the hustle and bustle into laughs and smiles.

Arriving and Checking-In

Your trip begins as you drive to the resort. Make sure to download your maps ahead of time as there is very limited cell service once you get about 2 hours out.

If your route has you driving on 219 and then turning onto RT-66, you can check-in to your lodging at the bottom of the mountain at The Inn at Snowshoe. Checking in here will keep you out of the mountain top check-in traffic so you can get to your spot quickly. And while you’re down there, grab some dinner at the Inn Zone, Snowshoe’s main sports bar. While you’re checking in you can also pick up your forms for any rentals or ski lessons so you can avoid the lines and head straight to the slopes.

Rentals and Lessons

On the topic of rentals, you can save yourself some time and headache by grabbing your equipment the night before your first day on the hill. We have rental locations at Expedition Station in the Village, at Top of the World on the south end of the mountain, and at Silver Creek, which is located about halfway up the mountain and home to our legendary night skiing. When you get to the rental shop you’ll be fitted for your boots, helmet, and your skis or snowboard. Check out our Dressing for Snow Guide for some additional insight on how your boots should fit and layering for the occasionally unpredictable Snowshoe weather.

If you’ve never skied, its been a while, or you just want to get better, take a lesson. We have group lessons for all ages and skill levels including all day programs for kids aged 2-12. It is highly recommended that any and all first time skiers take a lesson. Nothing can ruin skiing like one day of floundering around like a fish out of water with no help. Take a peek at our Lesson Guide to find a lesson that suits your needs. If you’re struggling to make turns, stop, or load and unload the lift, a lesson is right for you.

Silver Creek

A favorite amongst the locals and home to legendary night skiing, Silver Creek is truly wonderful. When the slopes on the Basin start to feel crowded, grab a free shuttle to the Creek. The area is laid out in a very progressive manner. As you look at Silver Creek on the map, you’ll see the entrance is on the far left side. The further right you venture, and further you get from the entrance, the more advanced the terrain will be. Silver Creek is home to a handful of green and blue trails, 2 black trails, and some dialed terrain parks (including Mountaineer, which now has a rope tow). These trails provide a bit more room to carve wide and play, plus, shorter lift lines at the bottom.

When the lights come on is when the Creek truly wakes up. You can ski until 9pm at the Creek every night while its open. If you get tired, head inside to the Bear’s Den for a quick break or check out the Tube Park for a different kind of sliding on snow.

Dining

Snowshoe has a range of restaurants to keep you running. You can see our full restaurant offering here. The Village is a great place for a meal but sometimes the crowds and wait times don’t work well with an empty belly. Hoot’s Bar and Grill, 10 Prime, Al-Dente, and The Inn Zone are all great out-of-the-Village options.

Hoot’s and 10 Prime are located at Top of the World. Hoot’s is a favorite among locals and employees with good food and drinks plus a juke box, dart board, and a couple pool tables. 10 Prime is Snowshoe’s fine dining experience with a mouthwatering menu and extensive wine selection.

Al Dente, Snowshoe’s Italian spot, is Village adjacent in the lower level of Mountain Lodge. The quietly charming and cozy interior is paired with a strong menu to create a great place for an intimate date or a family meal.

Down at the base, inside The Inn at Snowshoe, is the Inn Zone. Inn Zone is the main sports bar for Snowshoe with a selection of beers and bar classics like wings and nachos. You can catch all of the upcoming college football playoff games, NFL games, and more!

Rain Days and Off Slope Activities

We’re blessed with plentiful natural snow and the best snow making team around. But, Mother Nature likes to remind us how lucky we are with some underdeveloped snow days. We fully endorse riding in the rain as it makes the snow soft and playful and there are usually less people out on dreary days. But, we understand rain laps aren’t for everyone. There is still plenty to do off the slope. The Bear’s Den is a family favorite with arcade games, an RC car park, and food all located at Silver Creek. Split Rock Pools, located in the Village by Allegheny Springs, has indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs. Those are just the highlights, check out our rainy day blog for a full list of activities.

Did you know that the adventure continues after the slopes close? That’s right, its not just about the skiing here. Grab a shuttle to Silver Creek for the Coca-Cola Tube Park. Our 8 lane, six story tube park is fun for all ages. There is also a smaller hill for the real little ones out there.

One of our favorite internal combustion based adventures is the Backcountry Dinner Tour. You’ll head out in a side-by-side to the meandering double track of Cheat Ridge. On the drive you’ll come across the Sunrise Backcountry Hut where you and your crew will unload the SXS’ and enjoy a freshly crafted meal. This is a great option for groups of friends looking to add a bit more to their trip.

Holiday Celebration Events

Our Holiday Celebrations run December 23 through December 31 and culminate with New Year’s Eve parties across the mountain. Some of the highlights include:

We will be hosting four New Year’s Eve parties. One at Split Rock for the kids, one at Bear’s Den for older kids and families, one at Hoot’s Bar and Grill for those looking to throw down, and one at The Comedy Cellar for a NYE party and comedy show.

See for yourself what the holidays at Snowshoe are all about.