The western half of the United States seems to get all the acclaim for country skiing. That’s for a good reason – it has some of the best resorts and biggest mountains anywhere in the world.
However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t other options to explore. The East Coast and the Northeast portion of the country have some solid skiing when conditions are good. Vermont is one area that’s home to some great skiing in the northeast.
Here, we’ll take a look at some of the best ski resorts in Vermont so you can explore options for a fun ski trip or take advantage of the area if you live nearby.
1. Killington
Killington is one of the top resorts in Vermont. It’s one of the largest ski destinations in the Eastern US and has some of the best snow, terrain, and fun to be found in the region.
Killington is actually made up of seven different mountains, which is one of the reasons why it’s a favorite for skiers of all different abilities. Though seven mountains in the west might seem ridiculous, things just aren’t quite as large in the east.
The highest point at Killington is Killington peak. It sits at 4,241 feet and the mountain has a vertical drop of 1,165 feet. Again, this may not sound like much compared to larger resorts out west, but it’s actually the largest vertical drop in New England.
The resort averages around 250 inches of snow a year and has a reliable way to make powder all winter long. You’ll never be without skiing there.
Killington also has a nice variety of terrain, which is another reason it tops the list for the best in Vermont. You can literally find just about anything here.
Beginners will love the long groomers and gentle slopes that dot the mountains. More experienced riders will enjoy the steeps, tree runs, and moguls that will challenge advanced skiers to push their limits. There are plenty of terrain parks to take advantage of as well.
The resort also offers a ton of different activities at all different times of the year. In the summer, you can use the lifts to access awesome mountain biking trails or just go for a hike.
There’s also a world-class golf course and an alpine slide for the kids. Tubing and other non-skiing winter activities are also available if anyone in your party doesn’t want to hit the slopes.
2. Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Mountain Resort is another one of the best ski resorts in Vermont. This one’s a good option for the family or anyone else seeking comfortable accommodations alongside a solid skiing experience.
If you want to have a lavish ski trip on the east coast, this is the resort for you. Plus, you’ll get access to some quality snow and excellent terrain regardless of your ability level.
You’ll find the largest peak in Vermont here, with Mount Mansfield reaching 4,395 feet in the nearby distance as you reach the top of the skiable area at Stowe Mountain.
That impressive vantage point will let you enjoy any run you choose down a vertical drop of 2,360 feet. An average snowfall of 314 inches makes for a reliable snowfall and there’s a wide variety of terrain to enjoy and explore.
There are 12 different chairlifts that give you access to all of the runs on Stowe Mountain, which cover 485 acres of skiable terrain. That may not seem like much, but the name of the game here is long runs that you can cruise on from top to bottom of the mountain.
It can get kind of crowded at the base area, but if you take a lift all the way to the top, you’ll have the ability to spread out and get away from the crowds. You can also find some solid dining, shopping, and accommodations at the base of Stowe Mountain.
Whether you want a rustic ski lodge type of experience or some fine dining and luxury vacation living, the resort has a little bit of everything.
3. Sugarbush
Sugarbush is another great resort in Vermont. This doesn’t get as much attention as some of the other destinations in the state, but if skiing is your main priority, it has a lot to offer.
Plus, you can access plenty of backcountry terrain nearby. That greatly expands the resort. It’s not the best option for beginner skiers, but intermediate and advanced ones will love it.
The resort is spread out over two different mountains and boasts plenty of varied terrains. There are 600 skiable acres and a vertical drop of 2,600 feet that gives you access to some great long runs.
If you like skiing steeps, Sugarbush has a lot to offer. Explore the treed areas on the top of the mountain for some consistently reliable powder stashes and stick to the bottom if you’re a beginner. There are 16 lifts at the resort, all of which give you access to the amazing terrain.
There’s also a huge base lodge where you can take a break from the amazing skiing and refuel with a hot lunch or enjoy some apres ski snacks after a tough day in deep powder. Sugarbush has a lot to offer, and it caters to skiers who love to ski.
Final Thoughts
Vermont is one of the best skiing locations in the Eastern United States. You won’t get the high elevation of super dry snow like you will in the Rockies, but if you live on the east coast, you won’t find a better place to enjoy winter sports. Check out any of the resorts listed here for the best of what this region has to offer.
Where do you like to ski in Vermont? Are there any places we missed? Let me know in the comments below.
