Things to Do in Cave Spring

Perched atop Liberty University's tranquil, 5,000 acre mountain, the Snowflex Centre unfurls an innovative system of slopes for year-round skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Thrill-seekers of all skill levels soar across the venue's synthetic winter wonderland, which uses Snowflex technology and a patented misting system to mirror the behavior of real-world snowfalls. Hidden beneath crisp, white drifts, multiple layers of cushions absorb potential tumbles, emboldening snow-thusiasts to attempt free-style tricks (on an elevated drop), triple kickers, and a large quarter pipe. Guests seeking reprieve from supersonic spins and relentless, panhandling snowmen can kick back inside a two-story lodge.

Perched on hilltops that overlook the scenic Roanoke Valley, Hanging Rock Golf Club's 18-hole course surfs the mountainside for 6,602 yards of challenging course conditions. Rising peaks cast shadows across the course's emerald fairways as undulating terrain places a high premium on club selection, confident swings, and 9-irons impervious to motion sickness. The course's signature hole, the par-4 fifth, showcases the inventive designs of architect Russell Breeden as golfers can pen their own pin-hunting tale by playing to a two-tiered green stationed boldly uphill, a tricky layout that emphasizes accurate approach shots and putters that don't sweat under pressure. To help prepare players for upcoming rounds, resident ace Chip Sullivan conducts private lessons and runs golf academies for birdie seekers of all stripes.

Course at a Glance:

• Designed by Russell Breeden
• 18-hole, par-72 course
• Length of 6,602 yards from farthest tees
• Course rating of 72.0 from farthest tees
• Slope rating of 137 from farthest tees
• Four tee options
• See the scorecard

With more than 28 years of dance-studio experience, Director Karen Stemen and her agile staff strive to instill her students with both technical dance training and a palpable passion for movement. An array of classes direct the feet of all age levels and abilities. Youngsters can hone ballet and tap skills, and adults can come to the studio seeking a challenging workout or serious training in techniques such as hip-hop and pointe, ideal for those who have trouble reaching the cereal on top of the refrigerator.

Decked out in Wranglers, a heavy canvas jacket, and Stetson hat, Dwight Wood looks like one of Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders. “The old cowboy way is dyin’ out,” says Wood, North Mountain Outfitter’s owner and trail guide. “Out here, we aim to give you a taste of yesterday.” With a half-day horseback ride and an overnight stay in a rustic bunkhouse, guests can experience the Old West on the near side of the Mississippi. Following an instructional lesson and safety overview from the trip’s experienced guide, the half-day horseback-riding excursion sets out into the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. For three hours, groups will traverse moderate mountain inclines, cross streams, and look for wildlife from atop even-tempered horses. A saddle-packed lunch provides midday nourishment. The Shenandoah Valley is home to dozens of bird species including barred owls, Carolina chickadees, and red-tailed hawks. Brook trout navigate the streams, and white-tailed deer, black bears, and eastern cottontail rabbits play games of duck, duck, goose. Guides never settle for easy riding over pastures or open farmland; instead, groups explore hilly trails such as the Falls Hollow Trail and the North Mountain Trail.After the half-day’s ride, guests retire to the western-inspired bunkhouse, complete with a grand fireplace, saddle-seat barstools, and a porch overlooking the lake. The remainder of the day can be spent holed up in the outdoor hot tub, fishing, or challenging fellow riders to rubber-band-gun duels. A hearty dinner features signature Cowboy Cookin’, a savory selection of locally raised meats such as barbecue ribs and baked chicken. The following morning, a second helping of nourishment arrives in the form of a pancake breakfast served with breakfast meats, fresh fruit, and cowboy coffee.

The husband-and-wife duo that runs Wilderness Adventure at Eagle Landing always dreamed of starting an all-outdoor summer program for kids. In 1990, their dream became a reality when they purchased 500 acres of land in southwest Virginia that was perfect for outdoor adventures. Hills, trees, caves, and a glistening lake set the scene for activities such as rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, and caving, though the staff says that its most popular attraction is the 900-foot zipline. Today, the grounds welcome participants young and old; many adult groups travel to the grounds for team-building and leadership events. All of Wilderness Adventure’s programs arm participants with these skills, boosting camper confidence and giving them enough self-esteem to try to singlehandedly bringing back the fanny pack.

Cox’s Golf Driving Range’s grounds slope and skate through beautiful landscaping arrangements of bushes and trees that ensconce practice greens and snuggle up against the tricks and traps of the 18-hole Putt-a-Round miniature golf course. Contenders who prefer bats to clubs unleash thunderclaps in the range’s 10 automated batting cages with pitching machines that can alternate between baseballs and softballs. An onsite pro shop outfits practitioners with all the gear they may need for a day of the sporting life, including clubs, balls, and disposable plaid pants.