5 Scenic Chairlifts Near Northern Virginia with the Best Mountain Views

Take a ride up the mountain for one-of-a-kind views.

By Michele Kettner • Posted October 8, 2025 at 9:38 a.m.

Photo courtesy Snowshoe Mountain

Sure, mountain resorts are considered winter destinations — and the snowy scenery can mimic that of a movie. But the off-season views and attractions are top-notch, too. And there is no better way to take in the changing landscapes than from the top of a chairlift. Lucky for us, these resorts offer scenic rides throughout the off-season.

Massanutten Resort

While Massanutten is beautiful in the winter, you don’t want to sleep on those stunning summer and autumn views. During the off-season, the resort opens its chairlift so riders can take in a panoramic view of the mountains and villages during a 60-to-90-minute ride to the top of Massanutten Peak. 1822 Resort Dr., Massanutten

fall foliage at massanutten reort — *Courtesy Massanutten Resort*

Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center

A bird’s-eye view looking down the Allegheny Mountains is definitely something that should be on your bucket list. This scenic ride provides incredible views of the valley below. And just imagine the incredible mountain views once the leaves start to change. Once at the top of the lift, riders can choose to take a ride back to the bottom or get off for a 2-mile hike back to base camp. 230 Main Lodge Rd., Davis, West Virginia

Bryce Resort

While you’re exploring the surrounding area, make sure to block off a quick 10 minutes to enjoy the scenery from the resort’s chairlift. The views of the Shenandoah Valley, North Mountain, and the West Virginia border from the round trip are unmatched. 1982 Fairway Dr., Basye

Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Get an up-close and personal view of Snowshoe, West Virginia, from the treetops. From the beautiful, green spruce forests that surround the resort to the occasional white tail deer or black bear, this scenic ride is the perfect way to safely view nature. 10 Snowshoe Dr., Snowshoe, West Virginia

Wisp Resort

If you’re vacationing near Deep Creek Lake, plan a trip to the resort for a day of land-based activities. The mountain coaster and challenge course will most likely be on your things-to-do list. But a trip up the mountain in the chairlift is a must. Once you hit the peak, you can hike around the summit, leaf peep, and enjoy a relaxing ride back down. 296 Marsh Hill Rd., McHenry, Maryland

Feature image courtesy Snowshoe Mountain

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Michele Kettner

Audience Engagement Editor

Michele Kettner joined Northern Virginia Magazine in 2020 after spending two semesters as an editorial intern at the magazine. The University of Maryland graduate is currently the audience engagement editor and covers everything from can’t-miss things to do and holiday events to new restaurant and store openings throughout Northern Virginia.