When ski season hits, all eyes turn to Vermont. Serious ski enthusiasts know that you don't need to head west or book a flight to Europe to find some challenging slopes; all you need to do is plan a trip to Vermont. There are a few well-known ski resorts here, but there are also plenty of smaller options that are great for families or beginner skiers looking for lessons. Whether you bring your own equipment or rent on arrival, a driving trip to Vermont is sure to be a highlight of your winter. Keep reading to discover some of the top 10 Vermont ski resorts.
1. Killington
When most people think Vermont skiing, they think
Killington. This resort is the largest in the East Coast, and offers runs whether you are an experienced skier or just getting started. Rent a cozy cabin to top off your family getaway to Vermont and get warm by a crackling fireplace after a day of skiing. No list of the top 10 ski resorts in Vermont would be complete without Killington.
2. Stowe
Another popular place for skiing and snowboarding in Vermont is
Stowe Mountain Resort. This resort offers 39 miles of runs for winter adventurers. With high-speed lifts, you will spend more time skiing and less time waiting to get to the top of the mountain.
3. Smuggler's Notch
Families can plan an incredible ski vacation at
Smuggler's Notch Resort. This resort has the only triple black diamond (translation: incredibly challenging) run in the entire east coast - but it also has plenty of friendlier runs for kids and beginner skiers.
4. Okemo
The Okemo Resort is known as a family-friendly resort that welcomes both skiers and snowboarders. If you're interested in cross country skiing or snowshoeing, these are both options at the Okemo Resort as well. During the winter, the resort also plans evening entertainment the whole family can enjoy.
5. Ascutney
Some resorts in Vermont aren't as well known as others, but that doesn't mean they don't offer quality skiing. Take
Ascutney Mountain Resort, for example; this resort offers 56 trails, 6 lifts, and 9 challenging double black diamond trails. For serious skiers or those looking to improve their skills, Ascutney is a great choice.
6. Bolton Valley
One reason travelers choose Vermont is that the resorts here generally have a very family-friendly attitude. The same can be said about
Bolton Valley Resort, where families will find 61 trails for skiing and plenty of options for lessons and equipment rental.
7. Jay Peak
Located in northern Vermont,
Jay Peak is almost at the Canada border. With an aerial tram and 76 trails, this resort is famous for having excellent natural snowfall - snowmaking isn't used as frequently here as at other resorts in Vermont.
8. Magic Mountain
Who could resist a Vermont ski destination called Magic Mountain? This resort is located in the southern section of the state (
Londonberry), offering 40 trails to skiers of all levels. Tell the kids they're going to Magic Mountain and watch their faces light up.
9. Pico Mountain
Everyone knows about
Killington, but have you heard of Pico Mountain? Pico is a neighbor of Killington, and is one of the largest mountains in the state. With over 50 trails, you won't have to ski the same run twice during a winter getaway to Pico Mountain.
10. Sugarbush
Another of the top 10 Vermont ski resorts is
Sugarbush. Here there are two mountains and a variety of vacation rentals that put you right in the center of the action. Lessons are also available if you're trying to improve your ski skills with your Vermont trip this year.
Vermont Ski Rentals
Some of the biggest movie and TV celebrities have enjoyed this beautiful upscale Vermont home on private mountain with 45 acres. Perfect for entertaining in great room with 25 ft stone fireplace. Free flowing chef's kitchen and dining room join...
Enjoy ski in/Steps to Tin Lizzy Ski Trail from this nicely updated 2 bedroom unit that sleeps 7. Condo has a spacious open floor plan - living, dining, and kitchen area.
Living room has a large stone fireplace and cable TV, DVD & VCR player, fre...
Scenic location in Ludlow Village, with winter views of ski trails; 1.9 miles to Okemo base lodge and 2 miles to Okemo Valley Golf Club & Nordic Center. Three level, 5 bedroom, 3 bath house with stunning open living / dining area with cathedral ce...
Vermont is the place to be no matter what the season or weather is. There is a large selection of fine dining, casual dining, shopping, art galleries, music festivals, hiking, bicycling, swimming at Chimney Hill Clubhouse and at all the lakes near...
House views trails and clock tower, and skiers on Standard from top to bottom. Walk across Access Rd. to Village, base area and lifts.
Cedarwood throughout house -- all walls and ceilings.
Large private parking area. 5 Bar cell tower signal.
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