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West Virginia Winter Weekend

Book Your WV Winter Weekend

AT A GLANCE

West Virginia
14 Explorer Chicks
Hotel
Cross Country Skiing, Hiking, Multisport, Snow Shoeing, Snowy Adventures, US-Based, Weekend
4 Days
2 - Moderately Active
Physical demand level for this trip
Book Your WV Winter Weekend

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Parka

Shout YASSS at frozen waterfalls on our small group women’s winter weekend trip! Can we get an OUT OF OFFICE for this?! Canaan Valley in West Virginia is the perfect spectacular, snowy paradise for winter activities. Cross-country ski, snowshoe, and explore the live music and local microbreweries of the surrounding towns with other bold, adventurous women.

Become part of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Parka as you enjoy the best winter sports in the East. We’ll explore West Virginia’s mountainous Canaan Valley via snowshoe. Cross-country ski through the snowy paradise. Hike past frozen waterfalls, ice curtains, and rivers in Blackwater Falls State Park.

Then, slow it down with relaxing evenings in the colorful towns of Thomas and Davis, WV as we enjoy local eateries, live music, and microbreweries. #adventurethencocktails Each night is spent in a cozy State Park lodge with views of Blackwater Gorge.

Every day of our long weekend together will be filled with outdoor activities! Embrace the winter weather and have the best snow days ever on this Winter Weekend Adventure in Canaan Valley, West Virginia!

Photos

Itinerary

Expand All Days

Day 1 - Blackwater Falls Welcome

It’s the best day ever because YOU’RE HERE! Away from your needy boss and elderly dog with two teeth! Arrive at your cozy wintery lodge for check-in by 4pm. Blackwater Falls State Park lodge nestles on the edge of Blackwater Canyon’s South Rim with views of a GORG gorge right outside the front door. Heck yeah!

Once you’ve kicked off your airplane shoes and slid into your Crocs,  you’ll meet your Explorer Chick Guide in the lobby for introductions and a tasty Welcome Dinner in the lodge. After we chow down, we’ll prune up in the hot tub before we switch off for bed.  

Meals: D

Day 2 - Cross Country Skiing 101

Keep those Nature’s Valley crumbs SEALED. You’ll enjoy a hearty, sit-down breakfast at our lodge before we load up our daypacks. Today we take on  West Virginia’s disco-bright snow trails! Even if you’ve spent your entire life in Phoenix, you’ll be cross-country skiing like a champ after our demo. Just show up with a can-do attitude and some padded buns in case of falls.

We’ll start on a beginner bunny trail for a vibe check before breaking for lunch at the on-site cafe, featuring local and organic goodness. After we get our carb fix, we’ll tackle a more challenging trail. Depending on how the group’s feeling (no woman left behind!) we have our choice of over 48 trails on one of the best cross-country ski networks in the Eastern US. Along the way, we’ll take in views of the surrounding West Virginia high country while stopping at cozy ski shelters to warm those fingies and toes by the fire.

After a full day of skiing, we’ll head back to our cozy lodge to get cleaned up for dinner and an evening of live music in town. Davis is a postcard mountain town that will give you instant Virgin River vibes. Situated at 3,250,’ Davis is the highest incorporated town in West Virginia. Explore tasty restaurants, darling artisan shops, and thriving microbreweries in a town of only 580ish people. 

Cross Country Skiing: 3-5 miles. Minimal elevation change

Meals: B-L-D

Day 3 - Snowshoeing at Canaan Valley

Get another hot breakfast in your belly before stepping into your snowshoes. If you can walk, you can snowshoe! After everyone gets fitted, we’ll hit an easy trail until lunch. (Notice how everything revolves around food. You’re welcome.) We’ll hit a more moderate trail after we eat in the snow-covered Allegheny Mountains with nothing but trees and quietude all around.

We’ll return to our lodge to change for another dinner together in town. You and your Explorer Chicks are probably already the talk of Davis!

Snowshoeing: 3-5 miles. Minimal elevation changes

Meals: B-L-D

Day 4 - Sledding and Hike to Blackwater Falls

Why do the eggs gotta taste so much better at the last breakfast? *Tear. We’ll enjoy our last morning meal together before we flip out your inner child. IT’S SLEDDING DAY! Lucky for us, the longest sled run on the East Coast is directly outside our lodge. Prepare for cackles galore as you relive some of your best sledding memories with your new Winter Girl Gang.

 After sledding, we’ll take a short, scenic hike to the waterfall that gives our lodge its name: Blackwater Falls. Depending on the weather or if Elsa stopped by to hang, we may see it frozen in time. Either way, it’s a beautiful 57’ cascade that is one of West Virginia’s most photographed spots.

After snapping a million pictures, we’ll enjoy our last lunch in a local cozy hangout to reminisce about our snowglobe weekend. We’ll head home by 2pm today and will dream of all the braless snow angels we made.

Hiking: .5 miles. 121’ elevation gain

Meals: B-L

 

*Explorer Chick reserves the option to modify trip itineraries at the discretion of your tour director as necessary due to weather, conditions, illness, injury, group dynamics, availability, or other unforeseen incidents.

Explorer Chick cannot guarantee snow for your trip. Alternative no snow itineraries are in place. 

Logistics

What to Pack

 

Arrival

  • Airport City: Washington Dulles (IAD) or Pittsburgh (PIT). Approximately 3.5 hour drive.
  • Meeting Location: Black Water Falls Lodge
  • Meeting Time: 5pm on Day 1.

 

Departure

  • Airport City: Washington Dulles (IAD) or Pittsburgh (PIT). Approximately 3.5 hour drive.
  • Depart Location: Black Water Falls Lodge
  • Return Time: Plan to depart by 1pm on Day 4.

 

Optional Add-Ons: Limited Single Room Upgrades are available at booking.

 

You will receive a Travel Guide with all the campground, packing, and additional information you’ll need to prepare for your epic trip.

We require a minimum of 5 Explorer Chicks for this trip. Please confirm your trip is guaranteed before booking airfare.

Activity Level

Rated 2 – MODERATE ACTIVE

This winter adventure is rated moderate and focused on a variety of outdoor, winter activities. We’ll be outside every day in a variety of winter elements snowshoeing and cross-country skiing while exploring Canaan Valley. You should train your body to be outside for hours at a time bundled up and staying active.

Daily Activities:

  • Day 2: Cross Country Skiing. 3-5 miles. Minimal elevation change
  • Day 3: Snowshoeing. 3-5 miles. Minimal elevation changes
  • Day 4: Hiking. .5 miles. 121’ elevation gain

Please consider your ability to meet the physical demands very seriously. It is for the safety of both you and our group. All Explorer Chicks will be required to sign an Acknowledgement of Physical Demands as part of their waiver upon booking.

Read more about our Activity Levels.

What's Included

Lodging

  • 3 nights in a State Park Lodge with views of Blackwater Gorge, Wi-Fi, indoor pool, fitness center, cozy social areas, and restaurant on site. Rooms will be shared, double occupancy

 

Activities

  • Entrance and commercial permit fees to all parks and public lands
  • All activities as outlined in the itinerary
  • Gratuities for all excursions

 

Meals

  • All meals as indicated in itinerary: B-3, L-3, D-3
  • Gratuities for included meals

 

Practical

  • Professional leadership team with an Explorer Chick Guide.
  • Gratuities for local guides
  • A detailed Travel Guide with everything you need to know for your trip
  • The freedom to enjoy your vacation and mindlessly wander!

 

Not Included

  • Airfare
  • Airport Transportation
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel Insurance
  • Meals exclusive of itineraries
  • Costs for additional activities
  • Gratuity for your Explorer Chick Guide (read our tipping guidelines here)

 

Explorer Chick reserves the option to modify trip itineraries at the discretion of your tour director as necessary due to weather, conditions, illness, injury, group dynamics, or other unforeseen incidents.

More from West Virginia

💗Explorer Chick Jess is sharing what we needed to hear today! Thank you for showing up as YOU, being vulnerable and helping us all rise together.

It’s international women’s month, and we’re spreading the love all month long! (Ok, tbh we spread the love all year around here😉)

➡️ Send this reel to a strong woman who inspires you to be fierce and unstoppable.🔥

#ChinUp #TitsOut #BringTheHeat #explorerchick #explorerchickadventureco #womenoutdoors #WeAreNature #WanderWomen #AmongTheWild ⁠
#womenwhotravel #womenwhotravelsolo #GirlAroundWorld #GirlsAbroad #womentravelingtogether #TravelGirlsGo #Girlslovetravel ⁠#Womensmonth #womenempowerment #womensmonth #womenshistorymonth⁠ #risingtogether #westvirginia #explorerchickwvwinter

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💗Explorer Chick Jess is sharing what we needed to hear today! Thank you for showing up as YOU, being vulnerable and helping us all rise together. It’s international women’s month, and we’re spreading the love all month long! (Ok, tbh we spread the love all year around here😉) ➡️ Send this reel to a strong woman who inspires you to be fierce and unstoppable.🔥 #ChinUp #TitsOut #BringTheHeat #explorerchick #explorerchickadventureco #womenoutdoors #WeAreNature #WanderWomen #AmongTheWild ⁠ #womenwhotravel #womenwhotravelsolo #GirlAroundWorld #GirlsAbroad #womentravelingtogether #TravelGirlsGo #Girlslovetravel ⁠#Womensmonth #womenempowerment #womensmonth #womenshistorymonth⁠ #risingtogether #westvirginia #explorerchickwvwinter

📹 POV: You’re tubing for the first time in 15 years; the brisk wind rushing your face as you bounce down the hill.

😆 You can’t help but laugh from the thrill, it feels good to be carefree, like a kid again.

🎢 Two hands up if you need some more “WEEEEE” out of life? 🙌

#explorerchickadventureco #easydoesntchangeyou #creatememories #livealifeyoulove #likeakidagain #westvirginia #wildandwonderfulwv #bestvirginia #womenoutdoors #amongthewild #explorerchickwvwinter

Open
📹 POV: You’re tubing for the first time in 15 years; the brisk wind rushing your face as you bounce down the hill. 😆 You can’t help but laugh from the thrill, it feels good to be carefree, like a kid again. 🎢 Two hands up if you need some more “WEEEEE” out of life? 🙌 #explorerchickadventureco #easydoesntchangeyou #creatememories #livealifeyoulove #likeakidagain #westvirginia #wildandwonderfulwv #bestvirginia #womenoutdoors #amongthewild #explorerchickwvwinter
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In Her Words

lisa O.
lisa O.
Loved my first Explorer Chick trip to Yosemite - it won't be my last! Guides Christina and Nicole were so kind and attentive. I was a solo traveler and I enjoyed every other woman in my group! I left feeling confident in my strong hiking body and refreshed in my soul. Thank you, Explorer Chicks!
Danielle B.
Danielle B.
This was the trip of a lifetime! Nicki was the best guide and I could not have asked for anything to be different! Run to sign up for this trip! You will not regret it!
Bobbie H.
Bobbie H.
The Uganda trip with Explorer Chicks was beyond my wildest dreams. It was a bucket list adventure taken to extraordinary heights, blending luxury and excitement. I had hoped for at least one game drive, and instead, we embarked on more than a dozen thrilling adventures to see giraffes, elephants, buffalo, hippos, lions, chimpanzees and more. Seeing gorillas up close was a dream come true, and not only did I see them, but I was also touched by a young gorilla—a moment that far exceeded any of my dreams.The accommodations were beyond 5 stars, a true testament to the luxury of the trip and the impeccable planning on the part of Explorer Chick. Imagine being gently woken up by your butler serenading you with "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." The food was equally exceptional, adding to the overall luxurious experience. Moreover, I forged lasting friendships with the incredible women on this journey. I admire and adore each one of them, and the bonds we created are truly special.This trip was, without a doubt, an unforgettable adventure. All I can say is DO IT!!
Jenny H.
Jenny H.
This trip is AMAZING! Don't overthink it, just book it and go. It is worth every penny and you will not regret it. Explorer Chick has covered all the details - we just showed up to enjoy it. The animals and wildlife were beyond words! The hotels were deluxe and, if you're worried, the meals were delicious with mostly Western ("normalish") options or regional favorites. The women on the trip were also amazing. It was wonderful to see the African plains, enjoy sundowners, hiking to the gorillas, meeting local people - all of it. YOU WILL NOT REGRET IT! An adventure of a lifetime. (My trip was December 2023.)
Lauren J.
Lauren J.
Summer of 2023 I said to my husband, I need to do this trip, I went to the EC Banff Canada trip in March (first trip alone and I was freaking out) and it was absolutely amazing… but for some reason this trip just spoke to me… I was supposed to be there for my 40th in 2020 and you all know how that worked out! I booked it!!! I was scared to death. I packed and unpacked 1 million times and it was the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. Do you have any idea what it feels like to travel across the world, to be an independent woman, to do it by yourself… to meet the most amazing people that you know you’ll be friends with forever. Women that to this day I still talk to and have traveled to see again. Uganda is such an amazing country, you will never ever regret it. The people the experience, the culture, the food, the animals it is absolutely breathtaking. Don’t pass this up life’s too short go for it.
Susan F.
Susan F.
I just completed the challenging and spectacular Yosemite Half Dome Backpacking trip with Explorer Chicks. Our guide, Ashley, was organized, knowledgeable, kind, calm and encouraging and we all agreed we would definitely travel with her again!! This was a trip of a lifetime and I’m so glad I got to experience the beauty of the Yosemite backcountry!
Sasha S.
Sasha S.
I just got back from the Yosemite - Half Dome Backpacking Trip. From beginning to end it was AMAZING, STUPENDOUS, FABULOUS...you get the point. Kat was our guide and she was the absolute perfect fit for our group. Everything was so well thought out, meals were amazing! Loved our "Trailsgiving Dinner". Kat was great at reading the vibe of the group, making adjustments when needed and giving us super helpful little tips to make the trek easier. The itinerary was great and we had the trails mostly to ourselves in the backcountry with exception of the few high traffic areas so it felt like a magical little retreat. There were so many thoughtful details that made the trip extra special. We hiked Half Dome to watch the sunset and it was breathtaking. At no time did I feel unsafe because Kat coached us how to approach the cables and was there the whole time helping anyone who felt nervous. We had emails ahead of the trip with what to expect, frequent communication during the trip outlining the details of each day as well as a recap email that captured all of the special moments. I would so strongly recommend Explorer Chick to any woman looking for an adventure! BOOK IT!! You will not regret it!
Candice B.
Candice B.
This trip was wonderful from beginning to end! I am so thankful I found out about Explorer Chick! I will definitely be booking another trip soon. Kat was our guide and she truly was the best I could have asked for in a guide. You get to know people intimately when you go backpacking and share tents. Kat’s personality is optimistic and patient. Guiding 5 women who have hardly any experience backpacking or climbing could potentially be a very difficult situation but Kat is knowledgeable and kind and I trusted her guidance.
Shannon B.
Shannon B.
I just got back from my third Explorer Chick trip--this time to Yellowstone. It was a busy trip and we saw a lot in one week. Our guides Christina and Jayme were first class and facilitated not just the logistics of travel, meals, and activities but also empowered us, educated and listened and were fun to be around. These are not trips if you want relaxing, easy vacations. But if if want to meet fantastic women and challenge yourself, sign up. There are so many options to choose from and new people to meet.
Sierra W.
Sierra W.
Explorer Chick was absolutely phenomenal! I recently completed their Yosemite National Park Half Dome Backpacking trip and had an incredible experience. My guide, Kirstie, was beyond amazing. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the park, its history, and the surrounding area. Her enthusiasm and passion for the outdoors were contagious, making the trip even more enjoyable. Kirstie was also very approachable, making it easy to ask questions and feel comfortable in the group. I was impressed by her attention to detail, ensuring that everything was well-planned and executed. If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure, I highly recommend booking a trip with Explorer Chick!
Leila H
Leila H
I recently returned from Yosemite National Park after completing one of my bucket list hikes, climbing Half Dome! The group of women and our guide Katie K. were an encouraging and inspirational circle to be surrounded by. It wasn't just about hiking and completing a goal; it was about connection, learning, and trust. My guide went above and beyond in educating the group, teaching meditation and relaxation techniques, and adapting to each individual and their personal comfort level. I look forward to more adventures in the near future!
Jamie L.
Jamie L.
I just got back from the Yosemite hiking trip with Kara and Kirstie as guides and it was phenomenal! We covered several varied parts of the park and were so well taken care of by our guides! They adapted to each woman’s fitness level like pros. I will definitely be going on another trip with Explorer Chick and highly recommend them to any women thinking about it!
kara R.
kara R.
I am a single woman with the desire to travel. I feel a bit intimidated going alone. I had my eye on Explorer Chicks for a couple of years and finally committed to a trip; just returned from Alaska. All the ladies were down-to-earth, funny and kind. The guides made me feel safe and took us to places that were well off the beaten path, not tourist-y. I am on my way to becoming a world traveler, having booked another trip with them this fall. You will have so much fun!
Susan A.
Susan A.
Beyond my expectation is what comes to mind when asked how I liked my EC adventure. I recently returned from the Alaska adventure of a lifetime. The scenery, my fellow "Chicks", the daily events, the food, the organization, all top notch! Our guides, Ashley and Nichole, knowledgeable, capable, enthusiastic, welcoming, experienced with adventures in the wild. This is a not to be missed experience I would repeat in a heartbeat.
Shelly B.
Shelly B.
I did the 2024 Slovenia trip. My guide, Katie Klos-was awesome! And the trip was truly amazing! From the hut-to-hut hiking in the Alps- to the rest of trip adventures which included rafting, biking wine country, paddleboarding, hikes, delicious food and wine. Everything was planned and taken care of from start to finish and it was a grand adventure! It was my 3rd Explorer Chick trip and my favorite! HIghly Recommend!
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