In Harpers Ferry, snow tubing is new to the area but has quickly become a favorite activity that’s enjoyed by families and couples alike.
People of all ages love snow tubing. And when your snow tubing activity is done for the day, it doesn’t mean the fun’s over. You get to return to your cozy cabin rental to sip hot chocolate in front of the fireplace or relax outdoors in your private hot tub.
There’s a term for that. Après ski, or in this case, après snow tubing. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a French term that translates to ‘after ski’ or ‘after skiing,’ used to describe social activities and entertainment following a day’s skiing on the slopes. Trust us, in Harpers Ferry there’s plenty of before, after, and during tubing fun for the whole family.
Here is everything you need to know about snow tubing around Harpers Ferry!
What Is Snow Tubing?
Snow tubing is a fantastic outdoor winter activity that requires sitting or laying in a rubber tube while gravity does the rest, sending you gently moving down a snow hill. The higher the slope, the more fun you’ll have!
Snow lovers of all ages will love this fusion winter sport that requires little to no skill so that everyone can have a great time on the slopes!
Snow Riders Tubing Hill At River Riders In Harpers Ferry
- Address: 408 Alstadts Hill Rd, Harpers Ferry, WV
- Website: snowriders.com
- Tickets: Prices start around $34 and are sold in advance and online only.
Snow Riders is a brand new West Virginia winter play space with the longest snow tubing hill in the entire Eastern U.S. They began construction on their Tubing Hill in 2022, with 2023 being their first snow tubing season.
Getting There
Snow Riders Tubing Hill at River Riders is located in Historic Harpers Ferry, WV, in Jefferson County, where Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia come together. It’s also the closest available snow tubing to Washington, DC, at about an hour’s drive away.
What to Expect
Their Tubing Hill has 12 tubing lanes that are nearly three football fields long, which makes it the longest slope on the East Coast. They even have their own snow making machine, so you won’t miss out on the snow tubing fun even if the weather isn’t cooperative.
Don’t worry about being too worn out for evening festivities. A Magic Carpet conveyor lift will bring you and your tube back to the top of the hill so you can make the absolute most of your ticket time.
Downhill Disco Snow Tubing
Snow tubing at night is offered at Snow Riders. Get your groove on with their Downhill Disco. Snow Riders’ daytime slope transforms with a multi-color LED disco lights show that’s timed and changes with the beat of the music, and it’s a huge hit. You can ride solo or bring your family and friends. Downhill Disco is available daily at 5:30 p.m.
Ticketing and Restrictions
Your ticket includes 1.5 hours of snow tubing time, a tube, and no ride limit. Guests must be 36 inches tall to participate. All guests must be at least 42 inches tall to ride independently. Kiddos that are 36 inches can ride tandem with a parent.
They recommend you arrive 30-45 minutes before your session for a briefing and instructions. All snow tubing riders must read and sign a release form. A parent or guardian signature is required for guests under the age of 18.
Photography
What more could you ask for? A photographer, you say? Yes! There’s an onsite photographer on select days. They recommend you call or email before purchasing your tickets to confirm the day.
Eating at Snow Riders
Warm up at the hot chocolate bar and fill empty bellies at their on-site Two Rivers Tacos Food Truck. Serving up beef, pork, chicken, fish and cheese tacos, quesadillas, empanadas, grilled cheese, burgers and more. Yep, they even have churros for dessert. There’s something for everyone in your group. To-go orders are also available.
River Riders will soon be opening a full menu sit-down restaurant and bar with views of The Snow Riders Tubing Hill!
Have special dietary needs? You can also bring your own wintery picnic supplies! Picnic tables are first come, first served.
Winter Weather In Harpers Ferry
Winter weather conditions in Harpers Ferry are considered dry and cold with an average snowfall of 20-25” per year. Expect brisk conditions in the winter, with average lows of 26 degrees Fahrenheit and highs reaching around 40 degrees.
What To Wear For Snow Tubing
When you think about dressing for snow tubing, it’s similar to dressing for sledding or skiing.
You’ll need:
- Snow pants
- Waterproof jacket, gloves, and a hat
- Eye protection – because the sun reflecting off the snow can be rough on the eyes!
Other Winter Activities In Harpers Ferry
Scenic Overlook Hike
Snow tubing in Harpers Ferry isn’t the only cold weather activity. Take a hike in early December on Maryland Heights Trail. This popular 4.5-mile hike leads you to an overlook on the Potomac.
Olde Tyme Christmas Festival
If you’re visiting in December, the Olde Tyme Christmas Festival is usually held on the first and second weekends of December. The festival offers great activities for the entire family.
Explore Downtown Harpers
Downtown Harpers Ferry has been designated a National Historic District by the National Register; you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to the 19th century as you walk the brick and cobblestone streets.
Stay warm as it begins to snow by popping in and out of shops, museums, and cafes. There’s little more magical than walking down a charming street in the snow, carrying a hot chocolate.
Snow Tube Your Way Through a Harpers Ferry Winter
Even if you’ve come to Harpers Ferry for a weekend of snow tubing excitement, you can easily find more outdoor winter fun. Snow tubing in Harpers Ferry offers a thrilling winter adventure for families and couples alike and pairs well with cozy après-tubing relaxation, making it a perfect choice for a winter getaway.
Whether you’re a snow tuber pro or a first-timer, Harpers Ferry provides an enchanting backdrop for a memorable winter escape at a Mountain Mama vacation home or cabin.
