As winter blankets the Appalachian Mountains in a serene layer of snow, Southwest Virginia transforms into a magical landscape that invites outdoor enthusiasts and festival-goers alike to celebrate the season. From exhilarating winter sports to charming community festivities, this region offers a diverse array of activities that capture the essence of the holidays and the beauty of winter.
Roanoke, Virginia
Ice Skating at Elmwood Park
This vibrant park features the Elmwood Art Walk, fountains, the Carilion Peter Pan Playground, and a 4,000-seat amphitheater regularly used for live music and special events. During the winter months, Elmwood Park transforms into a winter wonderland with a public ice skating rink. Families and friends gather to glide across the ice, creating joyful memories amidst twinkling lights and the crisp winter air. Whether you’re an experienced skater or a novice, Elmwood Park offers a delightful setting for winter fun and community camaraderie.
Illuminights Winter Walk of Lights
In the heart of Roanoke, the Illuminights Winter Walk of Lights provides a dazzling holiday experience. Brighten your nights as you explore a breathtaking world of over 650,000 lights along a half-mile wooded path. Visitors can marvel at 50,000 new lights, enhanced displays, and festive family activities. As you stroll, take in the sights and sounds of the season while enjoying artisan crafts, roasting marshmallows around a cozy campfire, and participating in various activities on select nights. Illuminights promises to be a highlight of the winter festivities, offering a perfect blend of enchantment and community spirit.
Blacksburg, Virginia
Outdoor Adventures at the Jefferson National Forest
Blacksburg, home to Virginia Tech, is surrounded by the stunning Jefferson National Forest, where winter hiking and snowshoeing unveil a quieter side of nature. The forest’s extensive trail system offers picturesque views of snow-laden trees and serene landscapes. Trails like the Huckleberry Trail provide accessible routes for all abilities, allowing hikers to embrace the peaceful ambiance of winter.
Abingdon, Virginia
Exploring Grayson Highlands State Park
Just an hour from Abingdon, Grayson Highlands State Park is a winter paradise that beckons outdoor enthusiasts. Spread across a pocket of Appalachian high country, this alpine escape features airy mountain meadows and gushing trout streams, all set against a backdrop of lofty peaks. One of the park’s most enchanting highlights is the band of wild ponies that roam the highlands, including the famous flaxen-maned stallion named Fabio, known for his salon-quality locks.
The easily accessible Rhododendron Trail is a 2.5-mile loop that rewards hikers with sweeping views of Wilbur Ridge and Mount Rogers, the highest peak in Virginia. Grayson Highlands is not only a bucket-list destination for hikers but also one of the premier bouldering spots in Virginia, offering adventure for rock climbing enthusiasts during the winter months.
The Barter Theatre’s Winter Performances
For those who prefer indoor festivities, Abingdon’s Barter Theatre offers a delightful winter performance schedule. As one of the oldest professional theatres in the nation, it presents a variety of shows during the winter months, including festive musicals and beloved classics. The charm of this historic venue, coupled with its engaging performances, makes it a perfect evening activity after a day spent in the wintery chill.
As winter casts its spell over Southwest Virginia and the Appalachian Highlands, the region invites you to embrace the beauty of the season through outdoor activities and festive celebrations. Whether you seek the adrenaline of winter sports or the warmth of community gatherings, Southwest Virginia offers a tapestry of experiences that perfectly capture the magic of winter. So bundle up, venture into the mountains, and create your own winter adventure in this enchanting part of the country.
Author: VisitVirginia
