Routes, Tips, and Travel Advice
Snowshoe Mountain Resort in West Virginia offers an unforgettable mountain escape. The journey is as scenic as it is rewarding, but with winding roads and changing elevations, knowing the best route can make your trip smoother—especially if you’re traveling with companions prone to car sickness. Here’s a detailed look at the best ways to reach Snowshoe from all directions, with tips to make your travel experience enjoyable and memorable.
Best Routes for Car-Sick Travelers:
Arrive from the South or North. For those traveling with companions who are sensitive to curvy roads, approaching from either the south (White Sulphur Springs) or north (Elkins) is ideal.
If traveling from points due east or west, be prepared for winding mountain roads. While these routes may provide the shortest travel times, travelers with motion sensitivity may prefer comfort over speed. These routes would include traveling through Richwood or Webster Springs WV, and Monterey or Goshen VA to the east.
From the South
The most comfortable route from the south is Route 92 from White Sulphur Springs, which will take you through Frost, Dunmore, and Cass to Snowshoe. This path avoids the steep, winding mountain crossings found on Rt. 219 and instead follows the valley floor, providing a mostly flat drive with a one last ascent as you approach the mountain. You’ll avoid the curves of Droop and Elk Mountains, making this the best option for a less turbulent journey.
From the North
If you’re coming from the north, Route 219 from Elkins is the recommended route. This section of 219 is well-maintained and travels along the valley floor, offering a comfortable and scenic drive with minimal curves compared to other approaches. This makes it a great choice for travelers seeking a straightforward route to Snowshoe.
From Northern Virginia and Maryland
Most visitors from Northern Virginia and Maryland start by exiting Interstate 81 at Strasburg, VA, taking Route 48 (Future Corridor H) through Wardensville to Moorefield, WV. From there, you’ll take Route 220 to Petersburg, WV, followed by Route 28 south through Green Bank, eventually joining Route 66 through Cass to reach Snowshoe.
The drive from Moorefield to Snowshoe takes about two hours. Though rural, this leg is relatively flat and scenic, passing by landmarks like Seneca Rocks and following the South Branch of the Potomac River. For a unique stop along the way, check out the Cass Scenic Railroad or the Green Bank Observatory.
From Ohio and Pennsylvania
If you’re driving from Columbus, OH, or Pittsburgh, PA, your options will generally funnel you onto Route 219 at Elkins WV. As noted, Rt. 219 south from Elkins is a relatively easy trek. Elkins is a sizable city with a wide range of services and a great place to grab a bite, gas up, and hit the grocery store before the last hour of your journey to Snowshoe.
From Southern Virginia, Tennessee and North Carolina
If you’re driving from Knoxville TN, Charlotte NC, or Raleigh NC, you will most likely end up on Interstate 64 somewhere between Beckley WV, and Clifton Forge VA. We recommend exiting Interstate 64 at White Sulphur Springs WV and taking Route 92 up through Marlinton WV.
Lewisburg and White Sulphur Springs offer a great opportunity to refuel and grab supplies before completing the last hour and half drive to Snowshoe.
From Charleston WV and Points west
For those arriving from the west, most routes pass through Charleston, WV. From there, you have several options: head north on Interstate 79, exiting toward Birch River and Cowen, or continue on I-79 all the way to Elkins, where Route 219 provides a less winding approach to Snowshoe.
Alternatively, travelers can head south to Beckley, and over to Route 219 or Route 92 and approach the resort from the south. Each route offers scenic views, so choose based on your timing and travel preferences.
A Few Final Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Prepare for Mountain Weather: Snowshoe’s higher elevation means weather can shift quickly, especially in winter. During storms snow tires or 4-wheel drive may be required, so check the forecast and road conditions.
- Fill Up on Gas Early: Fuel options become sparse as you near Snowshoe, so top up in nearby towns before tackling the final stretches of your drive.
- Plan for Limited Cell Service: Once you’re on the more remote routes, cell service can be spotty. Make sure you have navigation ready and any essential contacts noted before you lose reception.
- Embrace the Views: The Allegheny Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, so consider planning stops along the way to soak it all in.
Please note that the routes provided here are general guidelines designed to help you plan a smooth journey to Snowshoe. These suggestions focus on commonly traveled paths that offer the best combination of scenic views and road conditions, though they may not include every possible route that visitors use or recommend. We encourage you to review and adapt these directions as needed, considering your starting point, vehicle type, and weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
