This Virginia Ski Resort Has an Indoor Water Park and a Scenic National Park 30 Minutes Away

As someone born and raised in central Virginia, I’ve spent more than 25 winters skiing throughout the state and traveling elsewhere in search of excellent snow. But there’s one mountain I return to time and time again, thanks to its prime location in the Blue Ridge Mountains, its affordability relative to many other ski destinations (lift tickets are under $100), and the way it quietly flies under the radar—making it a terrific option for families and first-time skiers: Massanutten Resort.

With just 83 skiable acres and 23 runs, don’t let Massanutten’s size fool you. The mountain offers plenty of variety, especially for beginners and intermediate skiers, so it’s ideal for families with kids or anyone still building confidence on the slopes. Even better, everything feels manageable: short lift lines, easy-to-navigate trails, and a layout that makes meeting up with your group simple.

And if you happen to luck out as we did on our most recent trip, waking up to about nine inches of fresh snow, you’ll quickly realize that even Virginia resorts can deliver great powder, without having to road trip to the northeast or fly out West.

Another reason Massanutten shines as a family destination is its numerous ski-in, ski-out lodging options. Being able to walk straight from your room to the slopes is a game-changer when you’re traveling with kids, especially younger ones. No loading and unloading the car, no long morning commutes—just grab your gear and go. It makes the entire trip feel more relaxed, giving you more time to actually enjoy the mountain.

As an avid skier, I could easily name a laundry list of reasons why Massanutten is an excellent place to learn how to ski—for kids and adults alike. But when legs are tired, or temperatures drop, what really sets the resort apart is its massive indoor water park, an off-slope perk that elevates the entire experience.

Inside, you’ll find colorful waterslides, a lazy river, splash areas for little kids, a wave runner, hot tubs, and plenty of space to burn energy, no matter what the weather is doing outside. The indoor water park is also kept at a cozy 84 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it a warm escape after a chilly day on the slopes.

Plus, with plenty of on-site dining options like the Campfire Grill, you have no need to leave the property.

However, should you choose to explore more in the area, Shenandoah National Park sits less than a half-hour away. Its prime location near the national park allows you to pair a ski trip with scenic winter hikes, mountain overlooks, or a trip along Skyline Drive. Massanutten, yet again, proves there’s more to a winter getaway than its slopes.

After more than two decades of visiting Massanutten, I keep coming back for the same reasons: it’s easy to reach, affordable, family-friendly, and, of course, fun. And while it may not have towering peaks or endless terrain, it delivers something just as valuable—a stress-free ski experience where families can actually enjoy their time together and create memories that will last a lifetime, both on and off the slopes.