Beat the Winter Blues in Randolph County

During the first weekend in December, Randolph County transforms into a winter wonderland during the annual Jingle All the Way Christmas Parade in Elkins, as well as during the Old Fashioned Christmas celebration in Beverly, where you can experience timeless Christmas traditions and make your own crafts. You might even meet Santa! Enjoy elaborate Christmas light displays in Elkins and Mill Creek throughout the month of December, and find the perfect gift at one of the many holiday markets and bazaars, including the Annual Holiday Artist Market at the Arts Center or the Christmas Community Bazaar at the Phil Gainer Center. Discover handmade art, vintage clothing, local delicacies and much more.

Enjoy winter scenery while riding in style on board the Elkins Winter Special. This scenic train excursion departs from Elkins and travels along the Tygart Valley River, with a stop on the return trip at the historic Golden Rule building in the rail yard in Belington, where you can shop local wares and learn about the area’s railroad history. This four-hour journey will run for a limited time in January and February, which is the ideal time of year to appreciate unobstructed views of several rivers and the former industrial towns along them, as well as the rapids and Wilmoth Falls.

Winter is the perfect time for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the Allegheny Highlands Trail. This 26-mile rail trail runs all the way from Elkins into neighboring Tucker County along a former railroad track. Warm up in downtown Elkins with a fresh hot chocolate or baked goodies at cafes like TipTop or the Good News Cafe, or celebrate local cheer with a local beer from the region’s microbreweries like Fox Hops or the award-winning Big Timber. In Randolph County, you’re just an hour’s drive from some of the top downhill skiing destinations in the state.

Tired of the cold? Celebrate the end of winter during the one-of-a-kind Fasnacht festival in Helvetia. This unique Swiss-Appalachian tradition is known for its amusing and intricate handmade masks, parade by lantern light, square dance and the ceremonial burning of an Old Man Winter effigee. Stop by anytime of the year to find locally made crafts and cheese at Swiss Roots, or learn about local culture with a self-guided walking tour. Discover historic C.C.C. era cabins and a variety of trails at nearby Kumbrabow State Forest.

You can enjoy more modern amenities tucked away in a secluded spot with a variety of rental options from Czar Haus or The Trails at Files Creek. Delve into local history as you relax in the many historic homes available to rent, including the Laura Jackson Arnold House or Laurel River Club bed-and-breakfast. If you want to be closer to the excitement of downtown Elkins, there are familiar hotel options and the charming boutique Tygart Hotel. Wherever you choose, you can be sure to find a cozy place to enjoy the views while staying indoors or escape for easy access to outdoor recreation opportunities.

For more information, visit elkinsrandolphwv.com.