With a whole lot of Cheat Mountain Magic and some consistently cold temperatures Snowshoe has snow everywhere, including the Glades. These tree laden trails provide an exciting challenge to those looking for tight turns, ever changing lines, and a big adrenaline rush. Snowshoe has four official glade trails that are open while the snow lasts.
Before getting into each of our glades, lets talk about tree riding safety. Skiing and snowboarding in the woods has inherent risks and should only be done by advanced skiers and boarders. In fact, all of our tree trails are only accessible via black diamond trails. When riding the glades, use the buddy system. It’s good practice to go into the woods in groups of three or more and be sure to stay in ear and eye shot of each other. If someone doesn’t come out of the woods, alert the nearest Snowshoe employee or mountain host.
We do not recommend skiing and/or boarding in the wooded areas outside of the designated open glades as these areas are unpatrolled, contain unmarked, man-made and natural obstacles and hazards including, but not limited to, summer bike park bridges and other features. Rescue in these areas may be significantly delayed. We also do not allow any riding under lift lines or in areas marked as closed. Entry to a closed area may result in a loss of ticket and even prosecution as it is against West Virginia law.
Glade trails are largely left in their natural state. You may encounter downed trees, branches, roots, stumps, rocks, streams and other forest debris. There may also be spots of limited snow coverage so don’t use your nicest equipment.
Glades are swept and cleared everyday at 4:00pm.
In order of increasing difficulty, here are the official glade trails at Snowshoe:
Sunset Glades
Sunset Glades is the only glade trail on Western Territory. Access Sunset Glades from the left side of Upper Cupp Run or the right side of Upper Shays after the steep. Enter at the yellow sign and exit at the connector from Upper Shay’s. These trees are more open, short, and have less pitch than our other glade offerings. These trees are a great place to go if you’re new to tree terrain and just want a sample before jumping in to other tree skiing areas.
Flying Eagle Glades
Flying Eagle Glades are the only official glades at Silver Creek. They can be accessed from the skiers left side of Bear Claw or skier’s right side of Flying Eagle. They are pretty open trees through the length of the run and have just a bit more steepness than Sunset Glades. These trees also feature a couple rocks that can be dropped. Keep in mind that Flying Eagle lift does not run during night skiing so hit this trail before 4:00pm.
Sawmill Glades
Sawmill Glades is where things spice up. Sawmill Glades are accessible from the skier’s right side of Sawmill. These trees are very unique and insanely fun. The line begins with a mellow pitch and a handful of clear lines. After about 200 feet the trail gets steep and the trees open up beautifully. This trail is on a bit of an off-camber and quite bumped up (at the time of writing) which provides a unique challenge and plenty of opportunities to add some flair and creativity to your skiing and snowboarding.
Knot Bumper Glades
Knot Bumper Glades are the most challenging glades and can be accessed from the skier’s right of Knot Bumper trail, just below the first drop, or a bit further down Knot Bumper trail. Knot Bumper Glades feature steep and tight trees right from the get go. Drop in and hold on! You’ll find many line options before exiting the woods back onto Knot Bumper. There are a couple drainages in this area so keep your eyes up for thin snow and streams.
The Snowshoe glade trails are quite the treat so get them while the getting is good. If you’re new to trees or are looking for a guide, Snowshoe Ski and Ride School has plenty of qualified instructors ready to show you around and help you get comfortable on challenging terrain.
When riding glades remember to only ride marked glades, go with buddies, and stay alert. See ya on the mountain!
