Age means many things in the American political arena. To some, it connotes wisdom, grace, and experience. To others, it suggests a fading gerontocracy that has grown increasingly out-of-touch with the average American. As the oldest commander-in-chief in the history of our republic, the current president’s age…
This article was produced in partnership with West Virginia Tourism.
While West Virginia is a true four-season destination, there’s no denying the pure magic of a winter escape in the Mountain State. Majestic highland overlooks. Snow-covered forests. Roaring waterfalls frozen in place. It all comes together to create a truly wild and wonderful winter utopia.
From the powdery slopes to snow-dusted hiking trails, West Virginia transforms into an unspoiled outdoor playground in the winter months, and it’s yours to explore. As the temperature begins to dip and the flurries start to fall, consider it your sign to hit the road. All you need to do is pack up your skis, grab your snowsuit, and throw your hiking boots in the trunk.
Cozy log cabins, rustic inns, lavish lodges, and top-notch ski resorts await. To get you started, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite winter getaways in Almost Heaven. And for even more vacation inspiration, grab a free digital travel guide or sign up to get insider tips and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox all season long.
1. Country Road Cabins
West Virginia’s New River Gorge, America’s newest national park, has become one of the most buzzed-about regions in the U.S., but Country Road Cabins has managed to stay relatively under-the-radar. It’s located in Hico, a wooded hideaway with a population that hovers around 200 people. It’s the perfect place to plan a digital detox.
Open year-round, this secluded compound features 23 standalone retreats, ranging from deluxe log cabins and luxurious yurts to tricked-out treehouses and glamping tents. But no matter the style, each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious deck, and a private hot tub. Ideal for group getaways, romantic rendezvous, and even solo adventures, Country Road Cabins offers a well-appointed basecamp to explore all the nearby hot spots.
Hiking Highlight: Country Road Cabins is situated less than seven miles from New River Gorge National Park and Preserve—a hiker’s paradise with nearly 100 miles of trails to explore. But of all the park’s winding paths, don’t miss Endless Wall Trail. The renowned three-mile loop cuts through dense forests and crosses frozen creeks while zigzagging along sky-high sandstone cliffs. Don’t miss the overlook at Diamond Point to get a glimpse of the New River nearly 1,000 feet below.
2. Log House Homestead B&B
Nestled off the beaten path and down a quiet country road, Log House Homestead B&B is tucked away in the snowy hills of the Mid-Ohio Valley. This hand-hewn log cabin is a masterful representation of West Virginia’s rich cultural heritage. While the architecture and furnishings harken back to the 1820s, the thoughtful amenities include all the modern-day touches you’d expect in the 21st century.
Enchanting any time of year, the two-story bed and breakfast is especially appealing during the winter months. With icicles tracing the roofline and snowflakes dropping from the sky, the rural setting provides a truly serene escape. You won’t find Wi-Fi, flatscreens, or even a telephone inside, but you will appreciate details like board and batten walnut doors, handmade tin wall sconces, and a large stone-faced fireplace. Plus, guests get to fuel up for the day ahead with a hearty country breakfast.
Hiking Highlight: Located near North Bend State Park, be sure to check out the North Bend Rail Trail. This 72-mile trek follows a former B&O Railroad corridor, snaking through several tunnels along the way. The park boasts 14 additional hiking trails that stretch more than 26 miles and vary in degree of difficulty.
Timberline Mountain offers action-packed slopes and epic snowmaking capabilities.Courtesy Image
3. Timberline Mountain
For those in need of a full-throttle winter wonderland, look no further than Timberline Mountain. The popular ski area can be found in Canaan Valley and is known for its action-packed slopes and epic snowmaking capabilities. A recent $10 million renovation brought upgrades like new chairlifts and other capital improvements. From skiing and snowboarding on groomers to exploring the mountain’s adrenaline-fueled terrain parks, there’s something for everyone.
Make the most of your visit by crashing at the 20-room Timberline Hotel. The quintessential mountain property is open year-round but fills up in the winter when it operates as a ski-in, ski-out lodge. Other nearby options include the 46-room Alpine Lodge (located across from Blackwater Falls State Park) and the effortlessly cool Billy Motel (nestled in the Allegheny Highlands).
Hiking Highlight: You can drive to Blackwater Falls State Park from Timberline Mountain in about 15 minutes. Famous for its 57-foot, amber-tinted cascade, the park also offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails. To witness the namesake waterfall frozen solid, hit the Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail. Lindy Point Trail is another quick trip, and it offers views from 3,000 feet above the Blackwater Canyon. For a more challenging route, set off on the Balanced Rock Trail, which connects with Shay Trace and Red Spruce Trails.
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4. Hillbrook Inn & Spa
For a more laid-back respite, pack your bags and head to charming Charles Town. An inviting blend of the past and present, this historic pocket is bursting with classic Americana. Locally owned shops and restaurants, live thoroughbred racing, bustling casinos, and cultural attractions like the Old Opera House Theatre Company keep visitors entertained throughout the year.
Book a room at the historic Hilbrook Inn & Spa. Built in the 1920s on a plot of land once owned by George Washington, this notable hideaway features 19 guest suites spread across five properties. The antique-adorned Main House will remind you of a European country manor, while the newly renovated Cottage Suites will make for a picturesque winter stay.
Hiking Highlight: Although Charles Town is full of things to do, nearby attractions like the 63-acre Cool Spring Nature Preserve and Harpers Ferry also lure visitors. Carve out some time to check out the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which serves as the Appalachian Trail’s official headquarters. Four miles of the world-famous route pass through historic Harpers Ferry—a perfect winter day hike.
The dog-friendly cabins at Lost River Vacations are nestled deep in the woods.Courtesy Image
5. Lost River Vacations
Looking to unplug and immerse yourself in nature? Venture deep into the expansive woodlands near Mathias, WV, and snag one of the stylish tiny house rentals at Lost River Vacations. Situated on 22 serene acres, the dog-friendly units are surrounded by the beautiful, forested landscapes Almost Heaven is known for. There are also several hiking trails plus a nine-hole disc golf course, a game library, and a Tesla charger located onsite.
Lost River Vacations launched on Kickstarter in 2018 and raised $30,000 in just 30 days. The project also has an admirable mission: to reframe the general perception of deaf people and showcase the extraordinary talents of the deaf community. The property is 100-percent deaf-owned. Each tiny home was constructed by deaf craftspeople, the artwork on display was created by deaf artists, the website and logo were built by deaf designers, and even the site imagery was captured by deaf photographers.
Hiking Highlight: Lost River Vacations is just a stone’s throw from Lost River State Park. Continuing the theme of serenity, this peaceful park covers nearly 4,000 secluded acres with 23 miles of trails. Follow the 3.5-mile Millers Rock Trail up to the Cranny Crow overlook. Sitting at an elevation of 3,200 feet, it offers sweeping panoramas of five different counties stretching out below.
6. North Fork Mountain Inn
Sitting among the rolling hills of the Potomac Highlands, the North Fork Mountain Inn is located adjacent to the Monongahela National Forest. It’s a seriously handsome outpost blessed with mesmerizing mountain views. The rustic interiors are marked by rich wood paneling, stone fireplaces, and standalone soaking tubs.
The property has a range of different room and suite styles, plus an entire cabin for any guests who desire a little more privacy. Here, dining is another highlight. From hearty breakfasts and gourmet picnics to fine dining and multi-course meals, you’ll never go hungry at the North Fork Mountain Inn.
Hiking Highlight: Encompassing a massive plot of nearly one million protected acres, the Monongahela National Forest is teeming with adventurous recreation. The 17.7-mile out-and-back North Fork Mountain Trail runs all the way from Route 33 northeast up to Route 28 before reconnecting to Route 33. The views are truly breathtaking as you traverse the spine of North Fork Mountain.
In addition to ski runs, Winterplace is also home to the largest snow tubing park in the state.
7. Winterplace Ski Resort
Ranked one of the best places to learn to ski in the southeast, Winterplace Ski Resort is the perfect place for beginners looking to learn the ropes—but it also offers challenging trails for anyone focused on improving their skills. With 27 runs sprawling across more than 90 acres of mountainous terrain, Winterplace offers outdoor fun for everyone. It’s also home to the largest snow tubing park in the entire state.
For nonstop snowbound adventures, reserve one of the Cabins at Winterplace. The basic, bunk-bed style cabins can accommodate up to 15 people, making them ideal for your next group getaway. You can even keep an eye on real-time conditions this winter by pulling up the Mountainhouse Cam live feed.
Hiking Highlight:Camp Creek State Park and Forest is just a 15-minute drive from Winterplace Ski Resort. Explore more than 33 miles of scenic hiking trails that glimmer with every winter flurry. There are 15 trails to pick from, but popular routes include the moderate two-mile Neely Knob Road and Trail and the difficult Piney Ridge Trail.
The complex covers roughly 200 acres with five individual cabins, each touting its own personality. They’re all equipped with everything you’d need for a cozy winter retreat plus a few extra perks, like Wi-Fi and log-burning fireplaces. Don’t forget to explore the four miles of on-site trails ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
Hiking Highlight: The Cranberry Glades Botanical Area is a unique spot to spend some time immersed in the great outdoors. This designated spot protects the largest area of cranberry bogs in West Virginia. In the winter, trek across the wooden boardwalk to see this one-of-a-kind wonder draped in fresh snowfall.
In the winter, Pipestem Resort State Park is a haven for cross-country skiing.Courtesy Image
9. Pipestem Resort State Park
Pipestem Resort State Park is a beloved family-friendly destination that draws attention in any season. Sitting along the rim of the Bluestone River Gorge, Pipestem offers thrilling pursuits for every type of adventurer. Some standouts include exhilarating zipline tours, guided trout fishing trips, mountain bike excursions, paddleboarding excursions, and more. In the winter, the park comes alive with cross-country skiers and sledders alike.
The park offers 26 fully furnished Vacation Cabin Rentals stocked with linens, kitchen utensils and appliances, central heat, high-speed internet, and other useful amenities. Two-, three-, and four-bedroom configurations are also available. If a mountain lodge is more your style, the park has two options to choose from. The McKeever Lodge boasts 111 guest rooms with snow-capped mountain vistas, while the Mountain Creek Lodge has a more intimate feel with just 30 rooms and sweeping Bluestone River views.
Hiking Highlight: Hiking is a hit all year long at Pipestem Resort State Park. From leisurely loops to more challenging routes, there are 20 different hiking trails that weave through the park. The 2.2-mile Lakeshore Trail encircles Long Branch Lake and offers one of the most scenic winter trails in the area.
10. Buffalo Trail Cabins
Catering to ATV enthusiasts, Buffalo Trail Cabins is located in Bluefield, just minutes from the Pocahontas Trailhead of the iconic Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. But even if you’re not trying to zip around on four wheels, this wooded hideaway is great for a winter vacation.
Whatever style you’re searching for, you’ll find it here. There’s an impressive collection of cozy cabins, elevated treehouses, and even a mountain view yurt. The property also boasts multiple RV hookup sites if that’s more your speed. Just make sure to swing by the restaurant and brewery during your stay. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or an adventurous guys’ getaway, Buffalo Trail Cabins has you covered.
Hiking Highlight:Pinnacle Rock State Park is just a five-minute drive away. Spread across nearly 400 acres, its namesake is a massive sandstone formation that soars 3,100 feet tall. Six moderate trails cut through the park, but the star of the show is Pinnacle Rock Overlook. From the top, enjoy unobstructed views of the snow-dappled forest below.
This article was produced in partnership with Gladiator
The inevitable truth of having an active life where you and your family enjoy sports and the outdoors, and one where you engage in lots of DIY hobbies like woodworking and crafts, is that you will accumulate a lot of stuff. There’s no way to avoid the accumulation of gear needed to participate in the outdoor activities you gravitate toward—cycling, fishing, skiing/snowboarding, surfing, backpacking, basketball, tennis…the list goes on.
And forget about trying to successfully gather and organize everything you need to work on a classic car or motorcycle, or craft a live-edge coffee table. It’s not going to happen without some kind of storage system, like the premium, durable, good-looking solutions from Gladiator.
To get started though, you need to analyze your garage or storage area, says Blake Bancroft, Gladiator brand and e-commerce manager at Whirlpool Corporation. “Consider overall space, wall space, and accessibility,” he says. “It’s about maximizing the space you already have.”
Bringing items off the floor with shelving and overhead storage is an easy way to get started. Then, think about how you can utilize your wall space more efficiently by putting up a wall organization system. Finally, he says, consider accessibility: What items do you need to have access to every day versus infrequently used stuff? After you address those key factors, it’s easy to dial in a solution that works for you.
Organize Your Sporting Life
Having a cluttered, jumbled pile of sports and outdoor gear in the garage, all hanging haphazardly on hooks and nails in the drywall, balanced precariously on mismatched shelving, or just unceremoniously dumped on the ground is not only a pain to navigate when it’s time to get out and have fun, it looks bad.
“Adding rack shelving is a common starting point for many people,” says Bancroft. “It gets items off the ground and you can typically store lots of variations of gear.” Thankfully, Gladiator has multiple options and tips to turn that mountain of mess into an organized, clean, and streamlined assortment of essential gear.
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Dividing sports and recreation gear is an easy task because most are naturally separated by season. You can rotate them out as the seasons change, storing items that aren’t in play at the moment on something like an Overhead GearLoft Storage Rack or GearLoft Shelf, or tossing the gear in storage bins that can be tucked away on the Heavy Duty Racks. The racks and shelves come in multiple sizes depending on how much gear you need to stow and the four adjustable shelves can be easily arranged at various heights to suit your storage needs.
After you’ve figured out what needs to go where according to what season you’re in, make an “active” wall, or a spot where the things you do often, like taking the dog for a walk or going for a bike ride, are easily accessible. For a storage solution to organize the gear for those activities, choose a solution like a GearWall Panel or GearTrack Channels. These easy-to-install wall hanging solutions allow you to mount a multitude of fast-access organization options from hooks and baskets to shelves and even cabinets so your most-used items are always within reach when heading out the door. And for kids’ stuff, mount bins closer to the floor so they can also grab-and-go or easily put things back when playtime is over.
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Another gear category that often gets crammed in closets, taking up precious space, is apparel. Coats, fleeces, hats, gloves, and sports apparel can easily be stored in the garage with something like the Ready-to-Assemble All-Season GearCloset, which has a sturdy hanging rod inside for simple stowing. For organizing the footwear that comes with sports and outdoor recreation, check out the Ready-to-Assemble Storage Shoe Bench and the Entryway GearTrack Pack for arranging often-used apparel like seasonal jackets or umbrellas.
Unify Your DIY Tools
If you’re the home handyman or go-to mechanic for projects big and small, there’s nothing more frustrating than looking for a specific tool and not being able to find it. A little tool box, one big workbench, and a haphazardly hung peg board is not going to cut it if you want to get serious about tool organization. Not only will getting your DIY gear in order help you complete projects, you’ll also end up enjoying the process more, and avoid doubling (or tripling) up on tools or supplies that are most likely hidden behind a dusty cardboard box full of old spray paint cans.
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It’s a good idea to reassess your space and find the ideal place to create a work area. Avoid heavily trafficked areas and use out-of-the-way spots like far corners of the garage that have easy access to electrical outlets, places to hang or add lights, and even plumbing lines and a drain, if applicable.
Then, think of what kinds of projects you’re most likely to take on. For example, if you’ll be rebuilding a motorcycle engine, go for a heavy-duty option like the 8′ Adjustable Height Hardwood Workbench and Premier Tall GearBox. If you want to do a lot of repairs and maintenance on equipment in the garage, maybe something more mobile, like the Modular GearDrawer and 3′ Mobile Workstation, would be a good solution.
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Your tools are what you need to get a job done right, and things like cordless drills and saws aren’t cheap so it’s a good idea to invest in a secure storage solution like the Ready-to-Asssemble Mobile Storage Cabinet. This hefty, spacious cabinet has plenty of room to put away circular saws, drills, hand planers, belt sanders, and much more while also giving you the ability to lock them up.
For smaller-scale projects—like arts and crafts or repairing and building electronics—where you need some storage but nothing heavy duty, along with a small work space to lay things out, the Ready-To-Assemble Foldaway Workstation is an excellent and very versatile option. The 2-Drawer Utility Cart is another way to get a good-size work surface that is also mobile and can be used in conjunction with the Workstation to stay organized while working on smaller projects.
Store Smart With Gladiator
Getting organized is not only good for productivity, it’s also great for your mental health. There’s nothing like coming into a space that was formerly filled with piles of gear and tools, and finding it clean and organized. You get a strong feeling of pride and Gladiator can make that happen for you.
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Plus, Gladiator’s products are designed so you can start small if you’re not planning a full garage rehab, says Bancroft. “You can add on over time or as your needs change, all while having the confidence that any products you add on, whether it’s cabinets, workbenches, tool storage, or wall organization, will be cohesive from a look and design perspective, but also have the upstanding strength, quality, and functionality we’re known for.”
People are typically solving for their organization needs today, but don’t realize those needs can oftentimes change. Investing in storage and organization that allow you to adapt to your changing needs will make a huge difference in the long run.
And, no matter what stage you’re at in your overhaul, you can contact Gladiator Pros who can provide garage storage, organization, and product advice.
I don’t think anyone gets quite as excited as I do for Sephora’s annual Holiday Savings Event. If you’re a beauty fanatic like me, I’m sure you’ve got your eye on a few things already. But if you’re a VIB member at Sephora, this is your gentle reminder that starting today, you can receive 15% off through November 7 with the code SAVINGS.
Not a VIB? No problem. If you’re a Rouge member, you’ll receive 20% off through November 7. First-tier Insiders will receive 10% off starting November 3 through November 7.
As a bonus, all Sephora Collection items are 30% off regardless of tier—a true holiday treat from the retail giant. I know, enough talking, more shopping. If you’re curious about what I’ve got queued up in my cart, keep scrolling.
This multitasking hair treatment is a must for anyone with dry, thick, damaged, or coarse curly hair. It’s infused with Moroccanoil’s extra potent argan oil and linseed extract which contains essential fatty acids to help restore the hair to health.
This aptly named face oil from Summer Fridays is a staple in my routine. It’s a restorative blend of 16 noncomedogenic oils to condition, plump, and boost skin elasticity. Meadowfoam, hemp, sunflower, cranberry, olive, broccoli, and grapeseed oil all replenish while sea buckthorn reduces the look of fine lines. Basically, it’s a magic all-in-one potion that’s more than worthy of a spot in your skincare routine.
If you have combination skin, this cream foundation and powder duo is truly all you need. The breathable, cream formula melts into the skin while the powder blurs imperfections, soaks up any excess oil, and creates a flawless, second skin–like finish.
I basically never stop talking about this toner because, well, it really works. If you struggle with acne but can’t tolerate things like glycolic acid, this might be a great option for you. It’s gentler on the skin but still unclogs pores, smooths out your skin tone, and doesn’t leave me too dry.
I’m not usually into mousse, but this one from Pattern is the exception. It’s super lightweight, adds definition to my curls, and keeps them looking fresh all day. It’s even great for protective styles to add extra hold.
Laneige’s creamy, hydrating mist delivers intense and long-lasting hydration for up to 12 hours and is great to use over makeup to refresh it throughout the day.
Augustinus Bader’s new lash and brow enhancing serum feature the brand’s TFC8 complex which helps guide key nutrients and powerful natural ingredients to cells. Roselle and safflower extracts encourage growth and decrease hair loss while improving its overall strength.
Sephora Collection brushes always impress me with how high the quality is at an affordable price. This eight-piece set offers some of the brand’s best for every part of the face. It also doesn’t hurt that all Sephora Collection items are 30% off.
This is one of my all-time favorite hydration masks. If you’re dealing with any kind of winter dryness or skin barrier damage, this is the mask for you. It’s packed with hydration-boosting ceramides, calming niacinamide, panthenol, and a buckwheat honey blend filled with antioxidants.
This palette of soft mattes and multidimensional metallics provides a fresh take on fall neutrals. It’s gorgeous and can provide the perfect pop of warmth or color to any look.
Warm and woody, this Tom Ford fragrance has been on my wish list for ages and now seems like the time to finally add it to my cart. With notes of ylang-ylang, cinnamon bark oil, and Australian sandalwood, it’s a creamy and inviting scent worthy of adding to your collection.
This limited edition blush trio from LYS offers gorgeous, universally flattering colors. Each formula also contains kaolin clay to help reduce the appearance of pores, avocado oil to hydrate, and vitamin E to soothe and calm.
I love a good lip plumper—whether it’s a gloss or a balm. This option from Makeup By Mario happens to be a little bit of both. It’s super hydrating and melts into the lips with shea butter, avocado, kiwi, and argan oil. It also comes in a variety of gorgeous new shades and leaves an ultra-glossy finish.
Rose hip is a great oil for daily use because it targets the signs of photoaging and helps create healthy, hydrated skin overall. You can’t beat the price tag on this one from The Ordinary—you might as well grab it while it’s an extra buck off.
Rare Beauty’s Liquid Touch Foundation is one of my favorite formulas. It’s really hydrating, noncomedogenic, and blends out so nicely. As a bonus, it contains a botanical blend of lotus, gardenia, and water lily to help soothe, calm, and nourish the skin.
Drunk Elephant also offers one of my favorite hydration masks. With a four-electrolyte blend, vitamin F, and niacinamide, it helps calm redness, helps skin maintain its hydration levels, and even improves visible signs of aging like fine lines and loss of firmness.
I’m obsessed with this Haus Labs highlight, so I’ll be using this opportunity to stock up on a few more shades. In particular, I’m eying the shade Chocolate Opal. I love that this formula is so pigmented and just melts right into the skin. It leaves you with such a fresh and radiant glow.
I’ve had my eye on this rich cleansing oil for ages. So many people I follow rave about how excellent it is at removing makeup and it leaves your skin silky soft with Japanese Camellia Oil and Tatcha’s signature complex of nutrient-rich rice, green tea, and algae.
Primetime Channels are like any other channel in YouTube — just a little fancier. | Image: YouTube
Streaming services are coming to YouTube. The company is rolling out a new feature called Primetime Channels that will bring shows and movies from more than 30 services directly into the YouTube interface. It’s a big bet for YouTube that it can be the cable bundle of the future and that its unparalleled audience will make streaming services buy into the idea.
YouTube has signed up 35 partners for the launch, from big-name streaming services like Paramount Plus and Epix to niche offerings like The Great Courses and Magnolia Selects. (Another service, NBA League Pass, is coming soon.) Each one will operate essentially like any other YouTube channel, with a curated homepage and a bunch of videos. Those videos will show up in the Movies and…
Okay, don’t tell anyone I told you this, but I have this friend who works at the White House, and she said that Biden’s literally not nice in real life at all.
