GHENT, W.Va. (WVDN) – Winterplace Ski Resort is proud to announce the completion of its two-year, $2 million capital investment, marking another milestone in the resort’s long-standing commitment to providing exceptional snow quality, slope conditions, and year-round sustainability.
Funded in part through a USDA energy efficiency improvement grant and Winterplace’s own capital budget, the two-phase project focused on enhancements to its snowmaking system, slope lighting, and resort infrastructure upgrades — all designed to enhance the guest experience while improving energy efficiency across the mountain.
“During the off-season, our team has been busy making improvements across the mountain and resort to ensure an elevated guest experience,” said Josh Faber, general manager at Winterplace. “Our focus is always about the guest. Every improvement – from new snow guns and brighter lighting to smoother lift ramps and updated facilities – was made to enhance comfort, safety and maximum enjoyment. We want our guests to feel taken care of – from the first lift ride to their last run of the day.”
Winterplace continues to strengthen its reputation as West Virginia’s most accessible, guest-friendly ski resort, offering families exciting improvements both on and off the slopes this season.
Here’s a look at what’s in store for the 2025/2026 season.
On Mountain Upgrades to Snowmaking and Lighting, new Ski Patrol Headquarters
More than one mile of new snowmaking pipe was installed to support stronger, more consistent snow coverage, while 20 new energy-efficient snow guns were added for faster, sustainable snow production. The mountain now shines brighter than ever with 250 new slope lights, including double the lighting in the Terrain Park for extended nighttime fun. Guests will also notice smoother loading and improved accessibility with new lift ramps. In addition, a brand-new Ski Patrol Headquarters now sits at the top of the mountain, enhancing guest safety and response times. At the Snow Tubing Park, guests will find a 50% increase in tubes, improved lighting, a covered loading area, and enhanced snowmaking—ensuring the best tubing experience in the Southeast.
Flexible Ticketing Options Provide Cost-Saving Options
This season, Winterplace introduces new options to make getting on the slopes easier and more flexible than ever. The new Night Tracks 4-Pack flex bundle includes (4) night lift tickets and equipment rentals and can be used any evening from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. (excluding Saturday). It is designed for busy guests who love night skiing but prefer a more flexible schedule. The popular Wild & Wonderful Membership also returns, providing a $25 discount per day on lift tickets for frequent skiers and riders.
Tubing fans will find exciting updates as well, including Unlimited Tubing Monday and Thursday nights, the continued Friday 5-Pack Special with extended sessions, and longer weekend tubing sessions (2 hours and 45 minutes) plus a new All-Day Tubing Ticket—all with no increase in pricing.
Terrain Park, Lessons & Club Programs
Freestyle enthusiasts can look forward to new Terrain Park features debuting this winter, along with the return of Throwdown Thursdays and other fan-favorite events. The Friday Night Gates Race League and Developmental Racing Team will continue for young racers. Winterplace will once again feature food trucks and live music on Saturdays and Sundays for après-ski fun. Guests can also take part in a full slate of special programs, including 4-week club programs, homeschool days and the SkiWee & Snow Explorers children’s programs, continuing the resort’s mission to make snow sports accessible for all.
Equipment & Operations
Behind the scenes, Winterplace continues to invest in operational excellence to improve efficiency and guest service. New kitchen equipment has been added throughout dining areas to enhance food quality and speed of service. The mountain operations fleet has also expanded with the addition of a mini excavator, telehandler, new truck, and snowmobiles—boosting efficiency and flexibility across the resort.
Rental, Retail & Guest Experience
Winterplace’s commitment to its guests extends to every detail of the resort experience. This winter, over $100K in new skis, snowboards, boots, poles, and helmets have been added to the rental fleet, representing nearly half a million dollars invested in rental gear over the past five seasons. Retail offerings have also expanded, with new items that are as stylish and functional as they are comfortable ensuring every guest can look and feel their best on the mountain.
Resort Enhancements
Upgrades off the slopes make it easier than ever for families to relax and enjoy the Winterplace experience. The Resort Center, Mickey’s, and Mountain House have all been freshly painted, giving these guest spaces a clean, welcoming look. A new covered deck seating area at the Resort Center provides a comfortable space to unwind and enjoy sweeping mountain views.
Winterplace traditionally opens for skiing in mid-December. To stay up to date on the latest conditions and available terrain, visit the Snow Report.
