Timberline Mountain, WV, to Pause Operations Amid Warm Spell, Eyes Final Weekend Reopening

Timberline Mountain, a popular ski resort in West Virginia’s Canaan Valley, has announced a temporary suspension of operations from Monday, March 17, through Friday, March 21, citing unseasonably warm temperatures and the need to conserve snow. Resort officials plan to reopen for one final weekend of skiing and snowboarding on March 22 and 23, conditions permitting.

“Mountain Ops has been expertly conserving snow through this warm spell, and temperatures are forecasted to drop at the end of next week,” the resort said in a statement. “Lower temps would allow us to groom more aggressively and move snow farther, creating a chance at the best possible conditions for reopening.”

The decision comes as ski resorts across the Mid-Atlantic face a challenging end to the season, with fluctuating temperatures impacting snow coverage. Timberline Mountain, known for its 1,000 feet of vertical drop and diverse terrain, has been working to preserve snow on its trails, which include favorites like White Lightning, a steep groomer that appeals to advanced skiers, and the long, winding Salamander run, which stretches for two miles.

Despite the recent warm spell, long-range forecasts suggest colder temperatures could return by the end of next week, giving the resort an opportunity to offer a final weekend of skiing and snowboarding. Timberline’s snowmaking and grooming teams will assess conditions throughout the week before making a final call on reopening plans.

Timberline, which underwent significant renovations in recent years after being acquired by Perfect North Slopes, has gained a reputation for its high-speed lifts and well-maintained trails. The resort’s closing weekend, if it goes ahead, would provide skiers and riders one last chance to hit the slopes before the season comes to an end.

Timberline officials encourage visitors to monitor updates on the resort’s website and social media channels for the latest information on reopening plans. In the last four years, Timberline has closed March 17 (2023-24), March 26 (2022-23), March 20 (2021-22), and March 26 (2020-21).