Experience Winter at the Whitewater Center
Embrace the chill of winter with thrilling activities at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.
by Arielle Patterson Dec 05, 2024
The Whitewater Center
This article is brought to you in partnership with the Whitewater Center.
Winter doesn’t have to mean a break from outdoor adventure. The Whitewater Center has an array of activities to enjoy throughout the season. From ice skating to moonlit ziplining, here are some ways to spend winter at the Whitewater Center.
Take a Spin on the Ice
One of the Whitewater Center’s most popular winter activities is back. Every winter, the Upper Pond of the Center is transformed into more than 24,000 square feet for ice skating for all ages and skill levels. Choose from four areas – two ice trails and two free skate zones. When you need a break, stop by the on-ice Airstream for a hot beverage. An All Access or Single Activity Pass is required for ice skating.
Try Out Cask Curling
This winter, the Whitewater Center is offering cask curling – a take on traditional curling. Instead of sliding stones across the ice, players slide mini kegs to compete for points. Cask curling is accessible with the Ice Skating pass.
Compete in Pond Hockey
For more competition, join the Whitewater Center’s 3v3 adult Pond Hockey League. Join either the recreational division for friendly fun or battle it out in the competitive division through mid-February with a playoff bracket to determine the league champions. If you don’t want to be on the ice yourself, watch the competition on Mondays and Wednesdays for the recreational division and Tuesdays and Thursdays for the competitive division.
Explore the Winter Trail
The Whitewater Center has expanded its Winter Trail to include more lights and opportunities for play throughout the Canyon. Follow the illuminated path across two suspension bridges. The whole family will love the variety of obstacles and play structures along the tree-laden path. An activity pass isn’t required for the Winter Trail.
Shop the Winter Market
Still holiday shopping? Visit the Whitewater Center’s Winter Market until the end of December. Shop for winter gear and other gifts as you sip festive beverages. You can even find a fresh-cut tree to take home. These trees include the traditional Fraser fir from the slopes of Whitetop Mountain in Virginia’s Grayson Highlands.
Experience the Whitewater Center After Dark
Just because the days are shorter doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Experience the Whitewater Center’s North and South Rim ziplines at night. Glide across the illuminated Canyon and cross the rope bridges beneath the twinkling stars. An advance reservation is required for the night ziplines.
For some fun on the ground for all ages, children can play after the sun sets at Wildwoods, which is filled with treehouses, lit up obstacles and more play elements. The Whitewater Center’s Off Leash area is also illuminated during the winter season. Bring your dog to enjoy 70-acres of unleased trails and a new agility course under the moonlight.
