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Massanutten Resort

GETTING THERE: Massanutten Resort is just east of Harrisonburg, Va., about two hours from the Beltway (depending on traffic). Take Interstate 66 west to I-81 south. At Harrisonburg, take Route 33 east 10 miles to the resort entrance.

STAYING THERE: Massanutten is a huge timeshare colony, but it welcomes all tourists (540-289-9441, http://www.massresort.com/). Prices for the condos range from $100 to $275 a night, depending on size. Rooms in one of the six hotels surrounding the ski lifts are $96.30 a night. The hotels are basic but pleasant and comfortable, with quality beds and refrigerators in every room.

EATING THERE: The resort has gotten big enough to create a sprouting of diners and barbecue joints outside its main entrance, but there are several worthy eateries on the grounds. The Woodstone Deli & Pizzeria in the main administration building does excellent pizzas and salads, with room delivery available at non-resort prices (dinner for three was less than $30). Fareways is the resort's full-service restaurant, overlooking the Mountain Greens golf course with live music on weekend nights (entrees begin at about $15). The water park features three places to eat, including Hideaway Lounge, the family-style Blue Ridge Buffet and a snack bar with excellent french fries.

BEING THERE: The weird weather is keeping ski season at bay but prolonging golf season. The Woodstone Meadows course remains open at $35 for 18 holes. For skiing on a few trails with man-made snow, weekday lift tickets are $45 ($40 for kids 12 and younger), $61 on weekends ($51 for kids). Twilight and extended day passes are available; slopes are open until 10 most nights. The indoor water park is open year-round, with outdoor parts open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Normal hours are noon to 8 p.m. (10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays). Admission is $38 per person for a day pass, $28 for children shorter than 42 inches, free for children 2 and younger. Non-swimming observers pay $10. The resort is close to the caverns and other attractions of the Shenandoah Valley and just west of Shenandoah National Park.

INFO: Shenandoah Valley Travel Association,800-847-4878, http://www.visitshenandoah.org/.