Most people don't realize Snowshoe Mountain is just as spectacular in summer. The resort transforms into a mountain biking mecca with 40+ trails, plus hiking, disc golf, and live music.
Snowshoe Mountain in Summer: A Hidden Gem
Most people think of Snowshoe Mountain as a ski resort — and it is. But from June through September, the mountain transforms into one of the best summer mountain destinations in the eastern United States, with world-class mountain biking, hiking, and a surprisingly vibrant resort atmosphere.
The best part: summer rates are significantly lower than winter, the trails are uncrowded compared to ski season, and the mountain air at 4,848 feet provides natural air conditioning even during the hottest East Coast summers.
Mountain Biking at Snowshoe Mountain
Snowshoe Mountain's bike park is the crown jewel of its summer offerings. With 40+ trails across multiple skill levels and a dedicated lift-accessed bike park, it's a legitimate destination for mountain bikers from across the region.
Trail highlights:
- Cupp Run (downhill) — The same legendary run that defines winter skiing becomes a technical, high-speed downhill in summer. 1.5 miles of sustained descent.
- Flow trails — Multiple beginner-friendly flow trails with berms, rollers, and jumps. Perfect for first-timers or families.
- Enduro trails — Technical single-track through the Allegheny forest for experienced riders.
Snowshoe Mountain hosts multiple UCI World Cup mountain biking events, attracting the world's best riders and creating an electric atmosphere on race weekends.
Bike rentals: Available on-mountain. Full-suspension bikes from $80-120/day.
Hiking
The Monongahela National Forest surrounding Snowshoe Mountain offers exceptional summer hiking:
- Cranberry Wilderness — 47,000 acres, 70+ miles of trails, old-growth spruce forests
- Spruce Knob — The highest point in West Virginia (4,863 ft), with panoramic views
- Falls of Hills Creek — Three spectacular waterfalls accessible via a 1.4-mile trail
- Seneca Rocks — A dramatic quartzite formation with a 1.3-mile trail to the summit
Other Summer Activities
Disc Golf: Snowshoe Mountain has a challenging disc golf course winding through the forest — free to play, discs available for rent.
Live Music: The Village at Snowshoe hosts regular live music events throughout summer, from bluegrass to rock. Check the resort calendar for the summer concert series.
Zip Lining: The summer adventure park includes zip lines, a climbing wall, and aerial obstacle courses.
Swimming: Split Rock Pools — natural swimming holes at Snowshoe Mountain — are a local favorite for summer cooling off.
Fly Fishing: The Elk River running through Slatyfork (5 minutes from our cabins) is a designated Trophy Trout Stream. Summer evenings on the river are magical.
Summer Rates: The Best Value at Snowshoe Mountain
Summer is the best time to visit Snowshoe Mountain for value-conscious travelers. Cabin rates are typically 20-30% lower than peak winter season, and the resort is significantly less crowded.