At a Glance: Where Should You Book?
- Closest to the Lifts: The Snow Lodge (Official resort lodging) and private slopeside condos are the most accessible options located near the lift facilities.
- Best for Budgets: Chain hotels located in Beckley (Exit 44) and Princeton (Exit 9). Both are approximately 15–20 minutes away via I-77.
- Best for Big Groups: Private cabin rentals in Ghent offer kitchens and space but often require a short drive to the parking lot.
Deciding on Location: A Simple Framework
Use this filter to narrow down your Winterplace Ski Resort lodging search before opening multiple tabs.
Choose Slopeside/Ghent if:
- You want to wake up and walk (or take a very short shuttle) to the lift.
- You plan to cook meals. The resort base has restricted dining options late at night, so having a kitchen is valuable.
- You prefer rustic atmosphere over standard hotel amenities.
Choose Beckley or Princeton if:
- You prefer familiar chain hotels like Holiday Inn or Hampton Inn with consistent quality and daily housekeeping.
- You need easy access to grocery stores, chain restaurants, and pharmacies.
- You want to save money. Hotels in these towns can be significantly cheaper than mountain rental properties during peak season.
| Location | Distance to Resort | Best For | Typical Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slopeside / Ghent | 0–5 mins | Ski-in access & Cabins | Rustic, Quiet, Woods |
| Beckley (North) | 15–20 mins | Dining & Convenience | Busy, Commercial |
| Princeton (South) | 15–20 mins | Budget & Overflow | Quiet, Highway-side |
The “On-Mountain” Options
Winterplace Ski Resort WV offers limited traditional hotel facilities directly on the slopes. The Snow Lodge serves as a primary choice for guests wanting direct entry to resort facilities. While not a luxury resort hotel, it is unbeatable for location. The slopes are accessible via walking or a short shuttle ride.
Beyond the lodge, you will find private condos and townhomes listed on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. Search for properties listing “The Cliffs” or “Resort Drive” as their address for the best proximity. For details on resort layout and authorized lodging partners, check the official Winterplace lodging page.
The “Walkable” Trap: Be skeptical of rentals claiming to be “near the slopes.” In the mountains, a quarter-mile walk can mean navigating steep, icy roads while carrying heavy gear. Always verify if a rental is truly ski-in or if you will need to drive and use the general parking and shuttle lots.
Hotels in Beckley and Princeton
Most visitors stay in the surrounding towns. Beckley is the primary hub for visitors to Winterplace Ski Resort in West Virginia. It sits about 15 miles north on I-77 (Exit 44), while the resort is located at Exit 28. This route is entirely interstate, providing a reliable driving experience during winter weather as long as plows are operating.
Why choose Beckley?
- Dining: Access to major steakhouses, fast food, and local favorites like the Tamarack marketplace.
- Amenities: Many hotels here feature indoor heated pools and free hot breakfasts.
- Value: Standard rooms often provide better value per square foot than on-mountain condos.
Princeton (Exit 9) lies south of the resort and serves as a solid alternative. It is slightly quieter than Beckley but offers similar chain hotel lodging. It is a smart backup if Beckley hotels are sold out during holiday weekends.
Cabin Rentals in Ghent
Ghent is the immediate town surrounding the resort. This area offers cabins that create a true mountain atmosphere. Many are tucked away in the woods near Flat Top Lake or along Route 19. These accommodations are ideal for family vacations requiring hot tubs, fireplaces, and full kitchens.
Common Booking Mistakes to Avoid
Your ski weekend should not be derailed by logistics. Watch out for these common pitfalls when booking lodging and packages.
- Ignoring Weather Policies: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Rain or rapid thaw might force you to adjust plans. Check if your cabin or hotel offers flexible cancellation.
- Forgetting 4WD: While I-77 is usually clear, private driveways in Ghent can be steep and icy. A front-wheel-drive sedan may struggle to reach some cabins.
- Assuming “Pet Friendly”: While the area is welcoming, many private condos enforce strict no-pet rules due to HOA regulations. Always verify before booking.
Final Recommendation
For a stress-free trip, a hotel in Beckley offers the most consistent experience with safe roads and plentiful dining. However, groups seeking the full winter experience should reserve a spacious Ghent cabin at least two months in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Winterplace Ski Resort have a hotel on the mountain?
The Snow Lodge and The Cabins at Winterplace are located at the resort area. However, there is no large high-rise hotel on-site. Most slopeside options are private condos or townhomes.How far is Beckley from Winterplace Ski Resort?
Beckley is approximately 15 to 20 minutes away by car. It is an easy drive on Interstate 77, traveling from Exit 44 (Beckley) to Exit 28 (Winterplace). Always check WV 511 for road conditions.Are there cabins for rent near the slopes?
Yes, there are many cabins and vacation rentals in Ghent, WV, surrounding the resort. Some are within walking distance, while others require a short drive to the main parking lot.Is it better to stay in Beckley or Princeton for Winterplace?
Both are similar distances from the resort (15–20 minutes). Beckley generally offers more dining and shopping options, while Princeton is typically quieter and can be slightly cheaper.
