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Last Updated on February 8, 2025 by Paul Clayton
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10 Best Ski Resorts in the Northeast
The ski resorts in the Northeast are amongst the finest destinations for winter sports enthusiasts. These resorts not only offer world-class skiing facilities but also provide breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and a range of other recreational activities.
Key Takeaways
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- Top Destinations: The Northeast offers an impressive variety of ski resorts with world-class amenities and diverse terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
- Vermont Highlights:
- Mount Snow: Easily accessible, ski-in/ski-out lodging, spa services, and terrain parks for freestyle skiing.
- Killington: Vast terrain with seven distinct mountain areas, guided tours, and fine dining options.
- Jay Peak: Most snowfall in Eastern North America, featuring an indoor water park and ice arena.
- New Hampshire Attractions:
- Wildcat: Stunning views of Mount Washington and a long ski season.
- Loon Mountain: Easy access, high-tech features through its mobile app, and scenic dining experiences.
- Bretton Woods: Alpine and Nordic slopes with additional activities like canopy tours and horseback riding.
- New York Must-Visits:
- Hunter Mountain: Four mountain faces with trails for all levels, gear rentals, and repair shops.
- Windham Mountain: Freestyle parks and luxurious spa options.
- Other Notables:
- Pennsylvania’s Blue Mountain: Renowned for snow tubing and farm-to-table dining.
- Massachusetts’ Jiminy Peak: Excellent night skiing and first-timer ski lessons.
- Choosing a Ski Resort: Factors to consider include location, terrain difficulty, amenities, snow conditions, cost, and lift system efficiency.
If you’re in the northeast, you know the ski resort options are practically endless once the snow starts falling. So, how can you pick the best one for your winter activities? This guide will provide all there is to know about the 10 best ski resorts around the northeast.
Vermont
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Mount Snow
Tucked in southern Vermont right in West Dover, Mount Snow is the most accessible skiing getaway from southern city life. The resort is on Route 100, just a few hours from Boston and New York City.
This spot has a lush history with plenty of exciting stories that have taken place since its opening for skiing and riding in 1954.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Slopevue by Vertivue
Though it was one of the first ski resorts on the East Coast, Mount Snow Vermont continues to define the ski industry today.
Their three mountain areas, North Face, Sunbrook, and Carinthia, cover 601 acres of terrain to explore. With 19 ski lifts, traveling between mountains is no trouble.
When it’s time to unwind after days full of winter fun, Mount Snow offers plenty of lodging options. Greenspring Townhomes, located across the street from the resort’s main entrance, offers stunning views and a private shuttle to the lifts.
When the mountain madness has subsided, head inside for fun at the indoor pool, hot tub, game room, and relaxing saunas.
Grand Summit Resort is the place to go for slope-side convenience. As the only ski-in, ski-out hotel property, it offers a cozy and charming home away from home, not to mention the spot’s delicious restaurants, cocktails, and live music.
Between snacks and ski lifts, check out the best skiing and snowboard shopping West Dover offers. In addition to staying stylish, soothe sore muscles at the resort’s Naturespa.
Enjoy treatments like massages, facials, holistic specialties, nature treks, yoga, and fitness programs.
They have many options when choosing a pass, including participating in the Epic Pass program.
New skiers, young and old, can make the most of their visit with lessons, and expert riders can enhance their skills. As the snow melts, new fun begins at one of the best northeast ski resorts.
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Killington Ski Resort
While skiing in Killington, Vermont, you’ll battle the biggest beasts of mountains. The resort’s seven distinct mountain areas include Killington Peak, the second-highest point in the state at 4,241 feet. With 1,977 acres of ski area, this resort is one major mountain playground.
Killington offers 213 total trails, 28 lifts, and three gondolas to glide in. Every day before hitting the slopes, you can even check out mountain cams for the best spots of the day. Check out their lessons for all ages, and grab your lift tickets beforehand.
This resort offers a special program called “Mountain Hosts,” where expert staff guide you through the vast terrain and teach you about the area’s history. No matter when you’re coming, there’s always something going on. This season: the Killington Cup competition.
Even if you’re feelin’ sore after skiing, enjoy other winter activities like snowmobile tours and the tubing park. And don’t forget to book a treatment at the Grand Spa for instant relief.
All this exploring and adventuring will probably work up your appetite, so what’s to eat?
Whether you’re ready for some fine dining or a quick bite on the go, you’ll never go hungry at Killington. Savor seasonal favorites at the Clubhouse Grill or head to the ski-in ski-out Brat Haus.
Those looking for something special should check out lunch in the Ledgewood Yurt.
With seven mountains to venture through, tired will likely be an understatement at the end of your day. The Grand Resort Hotel offers convenient ski-bridge access to the slopes from December until March.
It’s also perfect for summer stays when guests can explore the wellness walking path, Skye ropes course, trampoline jump, and more.
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Jay Peak Ski Resort
If you’re headed to Vermont, Jay Peak is a must-visit and one of the most popular resorts. They offer the most snow in eastern North America and a liberal in-bounds policy that ensures you can enjoy it.
Come experience the legend in real-time on their 81 slopes of snowy adventures.
There are plenty of parks to choose from. Start slow with the Rabbit Beginner Park, then pick things up at the Interstate. Between lessons, head to the Provisions General Store for souvenirs and gifts.
Even after slaying the slopes, plenty of winter fun still awaits you at Jay Peak. Catch some waves at the indoor water park or get chilly at the Ice Haus indoor arena.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to the New England Ski Journal
If more physical activity is last on your list after a full day of skiing, you can watch a movie in the theater or hit the arcade.
At Jay Peak, there’s no need to worry about lodging. The Stateside Hotel has plenty of rooms with ski-in and ski-out access and their most affordable on-mountain spot. Head to the Tram Haus Lodge or the Golf and Mountain cottages for something larger.
When the crew gets hungry, there’s something for everyone, from fancy meals to quick bites. Try the Clubhouse Grille or the Foundry Pub and Grille for dinner and a drink.
If you’re filling up between trails, try the Box Food truck or miso-hungry, a walk-up noodle spot at one of the best Vermont ski resorts.
New Hampshire
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Wildcat Ski Resort
Those in the historic town of North Conway will love venturing into the mountains. Consistently ranked as the best scenery in the East and some of the best ski mountains in the Northeast, Wildcat provides unmatched views of Mount Washington and the Presidential range.
Visiting here will make your ski season longer, as it’s historically been the first to open and last to close in New Hampshire.
Wildcat’s amazingly long season is thanks to their epic snowmaking in the White Mountain National Forest. With 225 acres to ski and 48 trails and terrain spots, the adventure is endless.
Between slopes, catch a ride on the high-speed quad chairlift – it takes you to the summit in under seven minutes.
Between the Tomcat Triple and Snowbelt Surface lift, your legs will always be able to catch a break. Once it’s time to fully rest and rejuvenate, check out the many places to stay at Wildcat.
Attitash Mountain Village is the most popular, surrounded by towering peaks with plenty of accommodations.
Other hot spots include the Glen House, a spacious restaurant and tavern, and the Grand Summit Hotel at Attitash. If the hotel’s menu doesn’t suit your palate, there are plenty more delicious options. Grab quick bites at the Wildcat cafeteria or grub and drink at the pub.
Those holding an Epic Pass or a Northeast value pass can access the resort or choose one of the spot’s options. After choosing your pass option, head to W Sports for all the gear you’ll need—jackets, snow pants, and goggles, oh my!
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Loon Mountain Resort
Loon Mountain Ski Resort is the place to go when you want to escape the city. An easy two-hour drive from Boston, the resort consistently ranks among the most accessible in the East.
Even better, the Loon Mountain Resort phone app makes it easy to access everything from opening times to mountain cams.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Loon Mountain Resort
Purchase your gondola and lift tickets ahead of time so you can savor the fun once you’re there. You can also use the app to check out season passes and their Ikon Pass options.
Staying at Loon Mountain will provide plenty of winter excitement, from skiing and snowboarding to tubing down the hills.
Dining is never a drag while visiting the resort. Perched 2,733 feet above sea level at the top of the Gondola, the Summit Café provides delicious dishes with stunning scenery. For some filling sandwiches and tasty apps, head to Babe’s Blue Ox Lodge.
If you’re headed in from afar, plenty of hotels are in the surrounding area. You can use the Loon Reservation service to book and manage private condos and townhouse rentals in Lincoln-Woodstock.
You can enjoy plenty of activities even if you’re visiting during summer.
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Bretton Woods Ski Resort
Bretton Woods is the resort for skiers trying alpine and Nordic slopes. Join ski groups, or even work your way up to participating in a big race. There are plenty of season passes and partner pass choices to savor all White Mountain areas.
There are 468 acres to explore, with 63 trails to trek through. In between rides on the resort’s 10 lifts, enjoy the stables for horseback riding or a winter sleigh ride.
Other winter activities aside from skiing include canopy tours, snowshoeing, tubing, winter fat bikes, and more.
Stay and play at one of Bretton Woods’ many lodging options. The Omni Mount Washington Hotel is fabled for its elegance, lovely amenities, and views of the impressive Presidential Range.
The Lodge and Townhomes at Bretton Woods offer private balconies, patios, and fully equipped kitchens, so you can feel at home.
Between hotels and ski areas, you’ll have plenty of food to enjoy. Restaurants at the Omni Mount Washington Resort include Stickney’s Restaurant, The Cave, Rosebrook Bar, and the Observatory Bar. When headed to the slopes, there’s plenty of grub on the go.
Lucy Crawford’s food court offers plenty of food for those on the run. The Slopeside Pub and Restaurant serves a tasty lunch and relaxing apres-ski atmosphere.
Whether you stay on the slopes or indulge in the area’s activities, Bretton Woods is bound to be a blast.
New York
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Hunter Ski Resort
When headed to the great state of New York, Hunter Ski Resort offers plenty of winter fun. Four separate mountain faces encompass a wide range of terrain that caters to skiers of all ability levels.
With a 3,200-foot summit elevation at 320 skiable acres, the excitement is never-ending.
Since there are 67 trails to venture through, check out the mountain cams before heading out to see which spot has the best day conditions.
You don’t need to worry about packing your gear, as Hunter’s ski and snowboard rentals come in clutch. Picking a pass is simple, and those with an Epic Pass or Northeast Value pass holders can already join in on the fun.
There’s nothing worse than being out on the slopes and getting a busted ski. Hunter Resort offers ski and tune shops to get your gear back up and running in tip-top shape before the hills close.
If you’re looking for new gear, Hunter Mountain Expedition and Sports Center offers everything from clothing to equipment.
Signature on-site lodging locations include the Kaatskill Mountain Club, known for its old-age charm and relaxing ambiance. For your family’s home away from home, book a stay at the Liftside Village Condos.
When you’re ready to get a bite, enjoy Van Winkles and sweet treats with Waffles and Ice Cream.
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Windham Mountain
With two mountain peaks, the fun never ends at Windham Mountain. With six terrain parks and over 80 features, there is freestyle for all abilities. Get started with Whirlwind Park’s small and basic medium features, then step up your game with larger ones in Warpath Park.
The 3,100-foot elevation makes for a superb ride down. You can get lift tickets and season passes—use the Ikon pass or choose from the resort’s various options.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Generation Snow
They also offer learning for all levels and seasonal programs, and the Windham Race Factory provides season-long programs for ski racers of all levels.
Plenty of lodging options are available once the fun is over and it’s time to unwind. The Winwood Inn offers newly renovated rooms near all the recreational activities.
The Winwood Condos each feature a kitchenette and two-bedroom units for a more spacious stay.
If you’re hitting the slopes with a bigger group, the private vacation homes accommodate up to 16 guests. After long days of skiing and snowboarding, find a sense of stillness at the Alpine Spa.
Enjoy a serene slope-side atmosphere with skincare, massage treatments, a steam room, and a sauna.
Head to the Tabletop Deli for yummy grab-and-go lunches when your stomach grunts after a long day of ski trails and lift rides.
Head to Mulligan’s if you want some pub fare and a drink. For something a bit more elevated, try Tavern 23’s roast chicken, steak frites, seafood, and more.
Pennsylvania
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Blue Mountain Resort
Make the outdoors yours at Pennsylvania’s Blue Mountain Resort. Season pass options are endless, with the all-access and off-peak pass. Thrill seekers and novices are welcome to snow tubing and snowboarding in the Pocono Mountains.
Blue Mountain Resort’s website always has up-to-date information thanks to its Ski Patrol, Snowmakers, and groomers. This means that cams and conditions will be accurate at all times. Blue Mountain Resort has five terrain parks, ranging from beginner to expert.
This season, you can be among the first to ride the new top-to-bottom terrain park trail, Dreamweaver. Dreamweaver Park is packed with action and a mix of 22 jumps and rails.
In addition to a new park, the resort offers plenty of different ski lessons and equipment to rent or buy.
Snow tubing is another excellent activity at Blue Mountain Resort. If you want to turn your ski day into a vacation, book a stay nearby through Airbnb or at one of the local hotels. You can even host weddings and events on-site!
Wherever you decide to eat, you know their food is excellent because it goes straight from their farm to your table. Half a mile east of the resort, find two large growing houses, a greenhouse, and a high tunnel. Enjoy these fresh foods at the delicious Slopeside Pub and Grill.
Massachusetts
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Jiminy Peak
Jiminy Peak is a New England ski resort known for its top-notch snowmaking capabilities, family-friendly environment, night skiing, and proximity to major cities.
The ski area covers 167 acres and has 45 trails. To complement this Massachusetts winter wonderland, it has created top-notch learning programs for skiers of all ages.
With an elevation of 2,380 feet and nine lifts to explore, Jiminy Peak offers year-round adventures. Those looking to have fun at night will love trails lit by LED lights. Off the snow, there is still plenty of family fun.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Slopevue by Vertivue
New skiers can gain skills at the first-timer lessons or get the kiddos in check with the KidsRule ski camp. There are also many season pass options; you can even save big with the Zephyr savings card.
L lodging options are endless once you’re all skid out and ready to hit the pillows instead of the slopes.
The resort is home to Country Inn, just a short walk from all the entertainment. You’ll have everything you need here, from dining and shopping to adventurous activities. Vacation homes are also located on the resort property.
If you’re looking for gear, head to Mountain Sports by Potter Brothers. Grab some snacks at the Country Store between slope slides and shopping trips. Check out John Harvard’s Restaurant and Brewery or Christensen’s Tavern for a more fulfilling meal.
Things To Consider When Choosing Ski Resorts
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Location: Consider the ski resort’s proximity to your residence or accommodation. If you live far away, you may have to factor in travel time and transportation costs.
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Skiing Terrain: Assess the quality and variety of the skiing terrain. Some resorts cater specifically to beginners or expert skiers, while others offer a mix of both. For example, Jay Peak in Vermont is known for its challenging slopes, while Okemo Mountain Resort offers gentler runs for novices.
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Amenities: Check the resort’s amenities. These include accommodation, dining options, ski lessons, equipment rental, and entertainment facilities.
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Cost: Factor in lift tickets, rentals, accommodation, and other potential expenses. Prices can vary significantly between resorts. For example, Killington Resort in Vermont is relatively affordable compared to the upscale Sugarbush Resort.
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Climate and Snow Conditions: Some resorts have longer seasons or more reliable snowfall than others—research historical weather conditions to ensure optimal skiing conditions during your visit.
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Reviews and Ratings: Research the ski resort’s reputation. Read reviews from past visitors and check their ratings on popular travel websites.
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Ski Lift System: A well-designed ski lift system minimizes waiting times and maximizes your time on the slopes. Therefore, it’s worth considering the efficiency and capacity of the resort’s ski lift system.
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Accessibility: Consider the resort’s accessibility, including the availability of parking spaces, shuttle service, and proximity to the nearest town or city.
Wrapping Up
The ski resorts in the Northeast provide a unique blend of natural beauty, diverse terrain, and premium amenities, making them an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
These resorts cater to various skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
With various terrain options, from gentle slopes for novice skiers to challenging black diamond runs for seasoned athletes, these resorts offer a dynamic environment that enhances the thrill and excitement of winter sports.
In addition to the outdoor experiences, the ski resorts in the Northeast also house several amenities designed to enhance the comfort and convenience of their guests.
These include terrain parks, indoor water parks, and children’s programs, all set in a family-friendly atmosphere that ensures a memorable experience for all age groups.
The stunning mountain views and picturesque natural surroundings serve as a magnificent backdrop, adding an element of serenity and tranquility to the high-octane activity on the slopes.
Moreover, these resorts regularly host major skiing and snowboarding events, allowing visitors to witness top-level competition.
In conclusion, the ski resorts in the Northeast offer a comprehensive package of adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring beauty.
They provide an unparalleled winter sports experience that caters to diverse tastes and skill levels while ensuring a warm and welcoming environment for families.
Now that you know all the hottest spots to ski across the northeast, booking your perfect trip has never been easier. Explore the mountains of New York or savor Vermont’s winter beauty.
Before you go, don’t forget to check out everything about skiing from Crow Survival for more information.
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