Vermont is home to some of the best ski resorts in the United States. With its picturesque peaks, fresh powder, and accessibility from NYC and Boston, Vermont has become a mecca for skiers and snowboarders alike. In this article, we will be discussing the top five best ski resorts in Vermont for the 2023/24 season.
Our list includes ski resorts that cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to experts. We have taken into account factors such as the size of the resort, the quality of the snow, the variety of terrain, and the overall experience. Whether you are looking for a laidback ski area or a huge multi-mountain resort, there is something on this list for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top five best ski resorts in Vermont for the 2023/24 season.
Overview of Vermont Ski Resorts
Vermont is home to some of the best ski resorts in the United States. With its cold winters and abundant snowfall, Vermont is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Vermont boasts over 20 alpine ski resorts, each with its unique features and amenities.
The ski resorts in Vermont vary in size and terrain, catering to skiers of all levels, from beginners to experts. Vermont’s ski resorts offer a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more. Many resorts also offer non-skiing activities such as snowmobiling, ice skating, and spa services.
Killington Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Vermont, known for its diverse terrain across seven mountain areas. Killington is the largest ski area in the East, offering challenging glades and mogul trails for intermediate and advanced skiers. Stowe Mountain Resort is another favorite, with Vermont’s tallest peak, Mt. Mansfield, and neighboring Spruce Peak offering some of the best skiing in New England.
Other top ski resorts in Vermont include Okemo Mountain, Sugarbush, and Jay Peak. Okemo Mountain boasts over 120 trails and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent snowmaking capabilities. Sugarbush is one of the biggest ski resorts in New England, offering picturesque peaks and fresh powder. Jay Peak is located in the northern part of Vermont, offering some of the best snowfall in the region and excellent glade skiing.
Overall, Vermont’s ski resorts offer a diverse range of experiences for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With its cold winters, abundant snowfall, and beautiful scenery, Vermont is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to hit the slopes.
Killington Resort
Killington Resort is a world-renowned ski resort located in Vermont. It is known as the “Beast of the East” due to its vast size and challenging terrain. The resort is home to over 1,500 skiable acres and 155 trails, making it the largest ski resort in the eastern United States.
Killington has 22 lifts, including two gondolas, and offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort has a reputation for its expert terrain, with challenging glades and mogul trails. However, it also offers plenty of runs for intermediate skiers and beginners.
The snowmaking at Killington is top-notch, with over 1,200 snow guns covering 600 acres of terrain. This ensures that the resort has a long and reliable ski season, with plenty of snow even in the early and late months.
When it comes to amenities, Killington Resort has it all. The Snowshed Lodge offers ski and snowboard rentals, as well as lessons for all levels. The Wobbly Barn is a popular après-ski spot, with live music and a lively atmosphere.
Overall, Killington Resort is an excellent choice for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With its vast size, challenging terrain, and excellent service, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the top ski resorts in Vermont.
Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Mountain Resort is one of the most popular ski resorts in Vermont, offering a wide range of skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. The resort is located on Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, and Spruce Peak, offering skiers and snowboarders breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Stowe Mountain Resort has a variety of terrain parks for expert skiers and snowboarders, including the Tyro Park, which features a variety of rails, boxes, and jumps. The resort also has a variety of expert terrain, including the infamous Front Four, which features some of the most challenging terrain in the East.
For intermediate skiers, Stowe Mountain Resort offers a variety of groomed runs on both Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. The resort also has a ski village at the base of the mountain, offering a variety of dining and shopping options.
Beginner skiers and snowboarders will appreciate the wide range of beginner terrain at Stowe Mountain Resort, including the Toll House area, which features gentle slopes and beginner-friendly lifts.
Stowe Mountain Resort also offers a variety of services, including rental equipment, ski and snowboard lessons, and a ski valet service. The Lodge at Spruce Peak offers luxurious accommodations, with ski-in/ski-out access to the mountain.
Overall, Stowe Mountain Resort is a must-visit destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts of all levels.
Jay Peak Resort
Jay Peak Resort is a popular ski resort located in the northern part of Vermont, just a few miles from the Canadian border. It is known for its abundant snowfall and challenging terrain, making it a favorite among expert skiers and snowboarders.
The resort has a total of 9 lifts, including the Saskadena Six, which is a high-speed detachable chairlift that takes skiers and snowboarders up to the summit of the mountain. There are 78 trails at Jay Peak, with 20% of them being beginner trails, 40% intermediate, and 40% expert. This makes it a great destination for skiers of all levels.
The terrain at Jay Peak is varied, with plenty of tree skiing and glades for advanced skiers. The resort also offers a variety of services for skiers, including ski rentals, ski lessons, and ski race programs. In fact, the resort hosts the annual Fisk Trophy Race, which is named after Olympic skier Bode Miller and attracts skiers from all over.
One of the standout features of Jay Peak Resort is the Tram Haus Lodge, which is located at the base of the mountain. The lodge offers ski-in/ski-out access and features spacious rooms and suites, as well as a variety of dining options.
Overall, Jay Peak Resort is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for challenging terrain and abundant snowfall. With its variety of trails and services, it is a great choice for intermediate and expert skiers alike.
Sugarbush Resort
Sugarbush Resort is a popular ski resort located in the Mad River Valley of Vermont. The resort offers two main ski areas, Lincoln Peak and Mount Ellen, with a total of 111 trails and 16 lifts. Sugarbush is known for its diverse terrain, including expert glades and mogul trails, making it a great destination for intermediate and advanced skiers.
The resort’s terrain breakdown includes 19% beginner trails, 45% intermediate trails, and 36% expert trails. Sugarbush also has a dedicated learning area for beginners, making it a great destination for families and those new to skiing or snowboarding.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Sugarbush offers a variety of other activities, including snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing. The resort also has a variety of dining options, including on-mountain restaurants and cafes.
Sugarbush is committed to providing excellent service to its guests, with friendly staff and a focus on customer satisfaction. The resort also invests heavily in snowmaking, ensuring that guests can enjoy great skiing conditions throughout the season.
Overall, Sugarbush Resort is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. With its diverse terrain, excellent service, and commitment to snowmaking, it’s no surprise that Sugarbush is considered one of the top ski resorts in Vermont.
Okemo Mountain Resort
Located in Ludlow, Okemo Mountain Resort is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. With two base areas, Jackson Gore and Clock Tower, Okemo offers a wide range of terrain, including 121 trails and 20 lifts.
Okemo is well-known for its excellent snowmaking capabilities, which ensure great conditions throughout the season. The resort receives an average of 200 inches of natural snowfall annually, but the snowmaking system covers 98% of the mountain’s trails, guaranteeing a reliable and consistent skiing experience.
Okemo has a diverse range of terrain, with 33% of the trails designated for beginners, 36% for intermediates, and 31% for experts. The resort’s expert terrain is particularly impressive, with challenging glades and mogul runs that will test even the most experienced skiers.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Okemo offers a variety of other activities, including a tubing hill, ice skating, and snowshoeing. The resort also has a reputation for excellent service, with friendly and knowledgeable staff always on hand to help guests make the most of their visit.
Overall, Okemo Mountain Resort is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with excellent terrain, reliable snow conditions, and a wide range of activities to enjoy both on and off the slopes.
Additional Ski Resorts in Vermont
Vermont is a paradise for skiers, with a plethora of ski resorts and areas to choose from. In addition to the top 5 ski resorts in Vermont, there are several other ski resorts that are worth mentioning. Here are some additional ski resorts in Vermont that skiers and snowboarders might want to check out:
Green Mountains
The Green Mountains offer a variety of ski resorts that cater to skiers of all skill levels. Some of the popular ski resorts in the Green Mountains include:
- Stratton Mountain: With 97 trails and a vertical drop of 2,003 feet, Stratton Mountain is a popular ski resort that offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders.
- Bromley: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Bromley offers 47 trails and a vertical drop of 1,334 feet. The ski resort is located in the town of Peru and is known for its great views of the surrounding mountains.
- Magic Mountain: Magic Mountain is a small ski resort located in the town of Londonderry. With 43 trails and a vertical drop of 1,700 feet, Magic Mountain is a great option for skiers who want to avoid the crowds.
Dover
Dover is a town in Vermont that is home to several ski resorts. Some of the popular ski resorts in Dover include:
- Mount Snow: With 86 trails and a vertical drop of 1,700 feet, Mount Snow is a popular ski resort that offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders.
- Haystack Mountain: Haystack Mountain is a small ski resort that offers 45 trails and a vertical drop of 1,200 feet. The ski resort is located in the town of Wilmington and is known for its great views of the surrounding mountains.
Mad River Glen
Mad River Glen is a ski resort located in the town of Fayston. With 45 trails and a vertical drop of 2,037 feet, Mad River Glen is a popular ski resort that is known for its challenging terrain.
Bolton Valley
Bolton Valley is a ski resort located in the town of Bolton. With 71 trails and a vertical drop of 1,704 feet, Bolton Valley is a popular ski resort that offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders.
Smugglers’ Notch
Smugglers’ Notch is a ski resort located in the town of Jeffersonville. With 78 trails and a vertical drop of 2,610 feet, Smugglers’ Notch is a popular ski resort that is known for its challenging terrain.
Pico Mountain
Pico Mountain is a ski resort located in the town of Killington. With 57 trails and a vertical drop of 1,967 feet, Pico Mountain is a popular ski resort that offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders.
Service
All of the ski resorts mentioned in this section offer a variety of services, including ski and snowboard rentals, ski lessons, and lodging. Skiers and snowboarders should check the individual ski resort websites for more information on the services that are available.
Ski Resort Amenities
When it comes to choosing a ski resort, amenities are an important factor to consider. Vermont’s ski resorts offer a wide range of amenities to cater to different needs and preferences.
Lodging
Most ski resorts in Vermont offer on-site lodging options, ranging from hotels and lodges to condos and condominiums. Some resorts also offer off-site lodging options, such as rental homes and cabins. When choosing a resort, it’s important to consider the type of lodging that best suits your needs and budget.
Dining
Vermont’s ski resorts offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to fine dining restaurants. Some resorts also offer on-mountain dining options, allowing skiers and snowboarders to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely lunch without having to leave the slopes.
Après-Ski
Après-ski is an important part of the ski resort experience, and Vermont’s resorts offer plenty of options for post-skiing relaxation and socializing. Many resorts have on-site bars and lounges, as well as outdoor patios and fire pits for enjoying a drink and socializing with other skiers and snowboarders.
Nightlife
For those who want to keep the party going after the lifts close, Vermont’s ski resorts offer a range of nightlife options, from live music and DJs to late-night bars and clubs. Some resorts also offer special events and activities throughout the season, such as torchlight parades and fireworks shows.
Spas
After a day on the slopes, there’s nothing quite like a relaxing spa treatment to soothe sore muscles and rejuvenate the body and mind. Many of Vermont’s ski resorts offer on-site spas, with a range of services and treatments to choose from.
Service
Finally, it’s worth noting that Vermont’s ski resorts pride themselves on providing top-notch service to guests. From friendly and knowledgeable staff to well-maintained facilities and equipment, you can expect a high level of service and attention to detail at Vermont’s ski resorts.
Ski Resort Experiences
Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions at Vermont’s ski resorts, but they offer so much more than just hitting the slopes. Here are some of the experiences you can expect at the top ski resorts in Vermont.
Terrain Parks and Superpipe
For snowboarders looking for a challenge, terrain parks and superpipes are available at most Vermont ski resorts. These parks feature jumps, rails, and other obstacles for snowboarders to show off their skills.
Lessons
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier or snowboarder, taking lessons can help you improve your skills and get the most out of your time on the mountain. Most Vermont ski resorts offer lessons for all skill levels.
Challenge
For experienced skiers and snowboarders looking for a challenge, Vermont’s ski resorts offer plenty of black diamond runs and mogul trails. These runs provide a thrilling experience for those who are up for the challenge.
Ski Races
Ski races are a popular event at Vermont ski resorts. These races are open to skiers of all skill levels and provide a fun and competitive atmosphere.
Tubing
For those who want a break from skiing and snowboarding, tubing is a fun and exciting activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Many Vermont ski resorts offer tubing hills that provide hours of entertainment.
Service
Vermont’s ski resorts are known for their excellent service. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with friendly staff who are there to help you with anything you need. Whether you need help with your equipment or recommendations for the best runs, the staff at Vermont’s ski resorts are always happy to assist you.
Ski Passes and Tickets
When planning a ski trip to Vermont, it’s important to consider the different types of ski passes and tickets available. Here are some options to consider:
Passes
- Ikon Pass: This pass offers access to multiple ski resorts across North America, including Killington Resort and Sugarbush Resort in Vermont. It’s a great option for those planning to ski at multiple resorts during the season.
- Value Pass: Many Vermont ski resorts offer value passes that provide access to the mountain for a certain number of days. These passes are often more affordable than full season passes and are a good option for those who plan to ski for a shorter period of time.
- Season Pass: For those who plan to ski frequently throughout the season, a season pass may be the best option. Ski resorts in Vermont offer a variety of season pass options, including unlimited access to the mountain or a certain number of days per season.
Tickets
- Single Day Ticket: If you’re only planning to ski for one day, a single day ticket is the way to go. These tickets can often be purchased online in advance for a discounted rate.
- Multi-Day Ticket: For those planning to ski for multiple days, a multi-day ticket may be a good option. These tickets often offer a discount compared to purchasing single day tickets for each day.
- Group Tickets: Many Vermont ski resorts offer discounts on lift tickets for groups of a certain size. This can be a great option for families or groups of friends planning to ski together.
When purchasing lift tickets or ski passes, it’s important to consider the value and service provided by each option. Be sure to read the fine print and understand any restrictions or blackout dates that may apply.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vermont is a premier destination for skiing enthusiasts. The state boasts some of the best ski resorts in the country, offering a variety of terrain and amenities to suit any skier’s needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Vermont has a ski resort that will cater to your skill level.
From the massive terrain of Killington Resort to the picturesque peaks of Sugarbush, Vermont’s ski resorts offer a unique experience that is hard to find anywhere else. With state-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming equipment, conditions are dependable, and many ski resorts open in late November and don’t close until mid-April.
When choosing a ski resort in Vermont, it’s essential to consider factors such as terrain, lift ticket prices, and amenities. Some of the top ski resorts in Vermont, according to our research, include Killington Resort, Stowe Mountain Resort, Sugarbush Resort, Jay Peak Resort, and Okemo Mountain Resort.
Each of these ski resorts offers a unique experience, from the vast terrain of Killington Resort to the family-friendly atmosphere of Okemo Mountain Resort. With so many ski resorts to choose from, it’s easy to see why Vermont is a top destination for skiing enthusiasts.
Overall, Vermont’s ski resorts provide a fantastic winter vacation experience for skiers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a challenging ski run or a relaxing après-ski experience, Vermont has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which ski resorts in Vermont are best for families?
Vermont offers several ski resorts that are great for families. Smugglers’ Notch Resort and Okemo Mountain Resort are two of the best options. Smugglers’ Notch Resort has a family-friendly atmosphere and offers a variety of activities for children, such as a kids’ adventure camp. Okemo Mountain Resort has a great ski school and a terrain park that is perfect for kids and beginners.
What are the top ski mountains in Vermont?
Vermont has several top ski mountains, including Killington, Stowe, and Sugarbush. Killington is the largest ski resort in the East and has diverse terrain across seven mountain areas. Stowe is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery. Sugarbush is one of the biggest ski resorts in New England and offers picturesque peaks and fresh powder.
Which is better for skiing, Stowe or Mount Snow?
Both Stowe and Mount Snow are great for skiing, but they offer different experiences. Stowe is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery, while Mount Snow is known for its diverse terrain and family-friendly atmosphere. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and skiing abilities.
Is Killington or Stowe the better ski resort?
Killington and Stowe are both great ski resorts, but they offer different experiences. Killington is the largest ski resort in the East and has diverse terrain across seven mountain areas. Stowe is known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and skiing abilities.
Are Vermont ski resorts good?
Yes, Vermont ski resorts are some of the best in the country. Vermont receives as much as 25 feet of natural snow each winter and has state-of-the-art snowmaking and grooming equipment, making conditions dependable. Many ski resorts open in late November and don’t close until mid-April.
When is the best time to ski in Vermont?
The best time to ski in Vermont is from late November to mid-April. This is when most ski resorts are open and conditions are typically at their best. However, it’s important to check the weather and snow conditions before planning your trip.
