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Who needs lifts when you've got two skis and free heels?

Everything about White Grass, a Canaan Valley, West Virginia ski mountain, oozes Appalachian charm: the southern hospitality of the ski instructors; the hearty vegetarian chili served up in the lodge; and the boundless enthusiasm of the owner, Chip Chase. White-collar Washington DC professionals mingle freely with West Virginia country boys, all in the name of snow and smiles.

However, there is something noticeably absent from White Grass. There are no lifts. The motto here is, "Earn your turns."

Skiing Options

First, a primer...

Cross-County Skiing - Skiing on trails that are typically groomed with a set of tracks. The skis are long, thin, and lack metal edges (in most cases).Backcountry Skiing - Backcountry skiers seek out technical, ungroomed terrain. White Grass rents beefier free-heel skis (with metal edges) for backcountry skiers.Telemark Skiing - Similar to backcountry skiing but the equipment supports a flexed-knee downhill skiing technique.

White Grass promotes and offers rentals for all three types. This article will focus on cross-country skiing, the most basic and beginner-friendly of the three, as well as snowshoeing, the snowy equivalent of hiking.

Trails & Terrain

Charm without substance breeds disappointment. Fortunately, White Grass backs up its good-natured personality with fantastic skiing...just look at the facts.

25-30 km of groomed trails1196 feet verticalTrails reach Bald Knob (4308 feet) and Weiss Knob (4459 feet) - two of Canaan Valley's highest points (and best views)Varied terrain options include steep open slopes and black diamond tree skiing for experts

For those brand new to the sport of cross-country skiing, ascending Bald Knob is not a realistic goal. Not to worry, White Grass caters to beginners with easily-accessible options like Gandalf's Trail, Three Mile Trail, and the famous Snow Farm (used when snow coverage is lacking).

Snowshoers, meanwhile, can hike as far and high as time and fitness allow. Considering the learning curve ("if you can walk, you can snowshoe"), your White Grass trail options are pretty much limitless.

Ski Instruction

Like any ski resort, the White Grass staff is heavily invested in your enjoyment - simply put, they want you to come back. Customer relations come naturally to the enthusiastic and accessible instructional staff. Ski classes for groups and individuals of all levels are available - ask at the counter for the "Mini" (15 minute breakdown of the basics) or an hour-long group lesson.

When to Go

White Grass advertises an average of 160 inches of snow per year. This winter, however, White Grass can boast 250 inches and counting. According to Chip and team, conditions are officially "epic" and will likely remain so throughout March.

The final remnants of our record snow fall are melting into oblivion, but don't be discouraged. Our Canaan Valley neighbors can help you get your snow sliding fix.

Location / Directions: Davis, WV; approximately 3.5 hours from DC Note: I-270 > I-70 > I-68 route is recommended in hazardous weather conditionsMountain Stats: 50+ km of trails (25-30 km groomed); 1196 ft. verticalDifficulty: High; Beginner trails and instruction are availableTrail Map: White Grass Trail Map

If you need a place to stay, the bluegrass-obsessed Purple Fiddle in Thomas is top-notch for value and atmosphere.

Located two miles and change from the Annapolis City Dock, the aptly-named Quiet Waters Park (map) offers the summer tourist (and local) a welcomed respite from the crowded city streets. The "Waters" part of Quiet Waters Park references the South River, the park's southern boundary, and Harness Creek, its tributary. The "Quiet" designation is a relative term. Most visitors to the park, including families and dog walkers, head straight to the South River Promenade with its impressive Chesapeake Bay vista. However, for the active type, six miles of trail and some "quiet water" paddling beckon.

The entrance to the park is off Hillsmere Drive, which as mentioned earlier is a little over two miles from downtown Annapolis. If bicycling is your preferred mode of transportation, the ride to the park is a straight shot down Bay Ridge Avenue after crossing the 6th Street bridge. Inside the park, the main trail loop, known as the Bike Path (open to walkers and joggers as well), connects to the entrance road. Taking the loop in a counter-clockwise direction, the paved path will meander leisurely through the leafy forest towards Harness Creek. For a multi-sport adventure, stop by Paddle or Pedal, accessible via the Harness Creek Trail. Rent a kayak (they also rent bikes) and explore the nooks and crannies of Harness Creek. Back on the bike (or your two feet), continue the loop, with a required detour to the Kodak-worthy South River Promenade. The return trip also passes the summer concert site and the native plant meadow - two examples of ongoing (and very different) projects organized by Friends of Quiet Waters Park.

Park Stats: 340 acres; approximately six miles of paved trail - multi-usePark Map: http://www.aacounty.org/RecParks/parks/quietwaters/map.cfmAdministration: Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks