Between quiet cobblestone streets, fresh snowfall, and beautifully decorated buildings, there’s nothing quite like winter in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. But as enticing as it may be to simply go for a stroll and admire the scenery, there’s another way to ring in the season: snow tubing.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a guide to snow tubing in Harpers Ferry that covers everything you might need to know. Book your stay at one of Stay Blue Maple’s vacation rentals, and keep reading to learn how you can partake in this classic winter activity.
The Basics of Snow Tubing in Harpers Ferry
Surrounded by the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, as well as dozens of hiking trails, Harpers Ferry sees the bulk of its visitors during the warmer months of the year. Contrary to popular belief, though, the fun doesn’t end when the temperatures fall. During winter, visitors can swing by for the Christmas Festival or tackle those trails under a picturesque covering of frost. Those looking for a bit of a thrill ride, meanwhile, can go snow tubing right outside of town.
For the uninitiated, snow tubing kicks your typical sledding day up a notch. Instead of sliding down an icy slope on an uncomfortable sled, you can hop in an inner tube to take a smooth joy ride on a well-groomed hill. Naturally, snow tubing has long been a favorite winter pastime around the world—and Harpers Ferry has gotten in on the game in recent years.
While a day of skiing or snowboarding might require costly lessons and rental equipment, snow tubing can be enjoyed by all ages and ability levels. And perhaps best of all, snow tubing offers entertainment for the whole family, as everyone from the littlest kids on up can participate.
Where to Snow Tube in Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry has just one snow tubing park, but luckily, it has everything you’ll need to make the most of a day in the snow.
Opened in February 2023 by rafting and ziplining company River Riders, Snow Riders features a 900-foot-long slope (that’s nearly three football fields) with 16 different tubing lanes and a modern Magic Carpet conveyor lift. Located within two hours of Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, the park ranks as the longest tubing slope on the East Coast.
The Runs
All runs at Snow Riders are thoroughly groomed to ensure a fast, smooth ride, and visitors can ride tandem or backward if desired. Even younger kids can join, though those between 36” and 42” tall must ride with an adult.
Any toddlers who don’t meet the minimum 36” height requirement can play in a smaller tubing area. If you and the little ones would rather wait on the sidelines, you can grab a hot chocolate and take a seat at the on-site bar and restaurant.
Sessions
Sessions last an hour and a half, taking place all day long—and we mean all day long. After dark, Snow Riders’ signature Downhill Disco kicks off with a multi-color LED light show and music sure to get all tubers in the celebratory spirit of the season.
Last but not least, the park’s many snow-making machines will keep the party going throughout the season, so you don’t have to worry about whether or not the tubing hill has coverage during your visit.
When to Go Snow Tubing in Harpers Ferry
This might go without saying, but the best and only time to go snow tubing in Harpers Ferry is in the winter. The season at Snow Riders Tubing Hill typically begins in late November and ends in March or April. Though the exact closing date may vary, the hill shuts down when temperatures become too warm to produce and maintain snowpack.
Speaking of, you can also see some natural snow during your winter visit to Harpers Ferry. Temperatures range between the 20s and 40s for much of the season, and average snowfall typically clocks in between 20 and 25 inches every year. So, while a white winter isn’t guaranteed, you’ll most likely spot at least a few flurries.
After you’re done snow tubing, you can venture into Harpers Ferry to see the historic buildings under a fresh coat of snow—or, if you time your visit right, you might want to check out one of the town’s annual events. The Olde Tyme Christmas Festival, New Year celebrations, and a holiday tour all take place in town during winter, so check the calendar as you plan your trip.
Where to Get Winter Gear in Harpers Ferry
Maybe you forgot your mittens at home. Or maybe you’re in desperate need of an extra raincoat before you head out to the tubing hill. Whatever you’re missing and wherever you’re coming from, there’s a gear shop in or near Harpers Ferry that’s got you covered.
Check out these spots for all of your outfitting needs:
Harpers Ferry Outfitters
- 106 Potomac St, Harpers Ferry, WV
- Gear for every outdoor activity, including winter-worthy footwear and apparel
Located right in the heart of Harpers Ferry, Harpers Ferry Outfitters carries all kinds of gear that you might need or want during your visit. Coats, beanies, gloves—you name it, you can find it on the shelves at Harpers Ferry Outfitters. Catering to Appalachian Trail hikers, this is also a great stop for those who might want to try a wintry hike after their day at Snow Riders.
Harpers Ferry General Store
- 161 Potomac St, Harpers Ferry, WV
- Gift shop with clothing and souvenirs
Though mostly geared toward warm-weather visitors, Harpers Ferry General Store also has options for anyone in need of an extra layer or two. You can buy Harpers Ferry-branded apparel like sweatshirts and beanies or snag some tasty snacks for your tubing session.
The Trail House
- 17 S Market St, Frederick, MD
- Wide selection of name-brand outdoor gear
If you’re hunting for more technical winter gear and ascribe to the motto “buy nice or buy twice,” you might have to head a little further afield.
Located in Frederick, Maryland (roughly a 30-minute drive away from Harpers Ferry), the Trail House carries a wide selection of quality outdoor clothing from brands like Patagonia and the North Face. From base layers to cozy down jackets, you can find everything you need to stay warm on the tubing hill.
Stay and Snow Tube in Harpers Ferry
By the time you read this, snow might already be on the ground in Harpers Ferry. So, don’t wait to plan your tubing trip. Pack your winter clothes and book your session with Snow Riders as soon as possible to make sure you won’t miss out on all the excitement.
Oh, and while you’re at it, remember to book your stay with Stay Blue Maple. While Snow Riders will take care of all your tubing needs, we’ll handle the accommodations. Our rental properties are a short drive away from Harpers Ferry, so you won’t be far from the tubing hill.