Shenandoah Bicycle Company Blog: Another world, less than 100 miles away.

Being a valley based snowboarder can leave something to be desired. You get really good at riding a variety of conditions and generally you get to be free of having expectations when you strap in. We're super lucky to have Massanutten Resort in our back yard, they are dedicated to quality snowmaking when weather permits. Less than a 30 minute drive from town, the "Nutt" is a great resource for honing skills and getting your form down. There are two snowboard parks and an awesome staff of AASI certified instructors, stoked to teach beginners and experts alike.

Continental Divide right there.

That something to be desired is deep, fresh, bottomless POW. Powder days are few and far between for us here in Harrisonburg, so if powder is a priority in your lifestyle, you have to be tuned into the weather and willing to travel. Lucky for us, just 2 hours from town, at 3100' Davis is the highest town in West Virginia. Weather patterns in Canaan resemble those further north, lake effect snow can happen and more arctic temperatures are common there. The best resource for determining current snow conditions in Canaan Valley is the Whitegrass website daily report tab. Canaan has 3 resorts, Timberline, Canaan and Whitegrass XC Touring Center in addition to a few peaks that are not often ridden.

Riding up the lift at Timberline Resort

Timberline and Canaan have great a network of slopes, snowboard parks and a variety of glades to explore while Whitegrass has one wide slope and a vast supply of awesome tree skiing for those interested in earning their turns. Generally speaking, most snowboarders tend to stick to the lift accessible terrain. Some snowboarders are weird though, they will hike all day for just a couple runs if the runs include untouched perfect snow.