Top 10 Ski Resorts in Vermont
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
As a Vermont native and avid skier, I am excited to share with you my personal top 10 ski resorts in Vermont. Vermont is known for its incredible skiing opportunities, with a variety of terrain and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there is something for everyone in Vermont. So, without further ado, here are my top 10 picks.
Top 10 Ski Resorts in Vermont
- Stowe Mountain Resort
- Sugarbush Resort
- Smugglers’ Notch Resort
- Okemo Mountain Resort
- Killington Resort
- Jay Peak Resort
- Stratton Mountain Resort
- Bolton Valley Resort
- Magic Mountain Ski Area
- Burke Mountain Resort
These ski resorts were selected based on a combination of factors, including the quality of snow, variety of terrain, accessibility, and overall skiing experience. I have personally visited each of these resorts and can attest to their excellence.
Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Mountain Resort is located in the beautiful town of Stowe, Vermont. It boasts a variety of terrain, including some of the best tree skiing in the East. The resort has a total of 116 trails and 13 lifts, including a gondola that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Stowe also has a vibrant après-ski scene, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.
Personal Experience: I recently skied at Stowe with some friends and had an amazing time. The snow was fresh and the trails were well-groomed. We took the gondola up to the top of the mountain and were blown away by the stunning views.
Sugarbush Resort
Sugarbush Resort is located in Warren, Vermont and is known for its diverse terrain and beautiful scenery. The resort has a total of 111 trails and 16 lifts, with something for every level of skier. Sugarbush also has a variety of on-mountain dining options, including the famous Allyn’s Lodge, which offers a gourmet dining experience with stunning views of the mountains.
Personal Experience: I have been skiing at Sugarbush since I was a child and it continues to be one of my favorite resorts. The scenery is breathtaking and the skiing is challenging yet enjoyable. I highly recommend checking out Allyn’s Lodge for a unique dining experience.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort
Smugglers’ Notch Resort is located in Jeffersonville, Vermont and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent ski school. The resort has a total of 78 trails and 8 lifts, with a variety of terrain for all levels. Smugglers’ also has a variety of non-skiing activities, including a tubing hill, ice skating rink, and indoor water park.
Personal Experience: I have fond memories of learning to ski at Smugglers’ Notch as a child. The ski school is excellent and the resort has a variety of activities for non-skiers as well. It’s a great place for families.
Okemo Mountain Resort
Okemo Mountain Resort is located in Ludlow, Vermont and is known for its excellent grooming and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort has a total of 121 trails and 20 lifts, with something for every level of skier. Okemo also has a variety of on-mountain dining options, including the popular Epic Restaurant and Lounge.
Personal Experience: I have skied at Okemo many times and have always been impressed with the quality of the grooming. The resort is also very family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids.
Killington Resort
Killington Resort is located in Killington, Vermont and is known for its expansive terrain and vibrant nightlife. The resort has a total of 155 trails and 22 lifts, making it one of the largest ski resorts in the East. Killington also has a variety of après-ski options, including the famous Wobbly Barn.
Personal Experience: I recently visited Killington for a weekend and was blown away by the size of the resort. There is truly something for everyone here, from beginner to expert. The nightlife is also not to be missed.
Jay Peak Resort
Jay Peak Resort is located in Jay, Vermont and is known for its excellent snowfall and challenging terrain. The resort has a total of 78 trails and 9 lifts, with some of the best glade skiing in the East. Jay Peak also has a variety of non-skiing activities, including an indoor water park and ice arena.
Personal Experience: I have skied at Jay Peak a few times and have always been impressed with the quality of the snow. It’s a challenging resort, but well worth it for the incredible skiing experience.
Stratton Mountain Resort
Stratton Mountain Resort is located in Stratton, Vermont and is known for its excellent grooming and luxurious atmosphere. The resort has a total of 97 trails and 11 lifts, with something for every level of skier. Stratton also has a variety of on-mountain dining options, including the popular Fire Tower Restaurant.
Personal Experience: I recently visited Stratton and was blown away by the luxurious atmosphere. The skiing was excellent and the on-mountain dining options were top-notch.
Bolton Valley Resort
Bolton Valley Resort is located in Bolton Valley, Vermont and is known for its affordable skiing and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort has a total of 71 trails and 6 lifts, with a variety of terrain for all levels. Bolton Valley also has a variety of non-skiing activities, including a Nordic center and indoor sports center.
Personal Experience: I recently visited Bolton Valley with my family and was impressed with the affordability of the resort. The skiing was enjoyable and there were plenty of non-skiing activities for my kids to enjoy.
Magic Mountain Ski Area
Magic Mountain Ski Area is located in Londonderry, Vermont and is known for its challenging terrain and old-school vibe. The resort has a total of 50 trails and 4 lifts, with some of the best tree skiing in the East. Magic Mountain also has a variety of non-skiing activities, including a tubing hill and ice skating rink.
Personal Experience: I recently visited Magic Mountain with some friends and was blown away by the challenging terrain. This is not a resort for beginners, but if you’re an expert skier looking for a challenge, Magic Mountain is the place to be.
Burke Mountain Resort
Burke Mountain Resort is located in East Burke, Vermont and is known for its excellent snowfall and challenging terrain. The resort has a total of 55 trails and 6 lifts, with a variety of terrain for all levels. Burke Mountain also has a variety of non-skiing activities, including an indoor pool and hot tub.
Personal Experience: I recently visited Burke Mountain and was impressed with the quality of the snow. The resort is challenging but enjoyable, with something for every level of skier.
FAQs
- What is the best time of year to ski in Vermont?
- Which ski resort is best for beginners?
- Which ski resort is best for experts?
- Which ski resort has the best après-ski scene?
- Which ski resort is the most affordable?
The best time of year to ski in Vermont is typically from mid-December to mid-March, although this can vary depending on the weather.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort and Bolton Valley Resort are both great options for beginners.
Magic Mountain Ski Area and Jay Peak Resort are both great options for expert skiers.
Killington Resort and Stowe Mountain Resort both have vibrant après-ski scenes.
Bolton Valley Resort and Burke Mountain Resort are both affordable options for skiing in Vermont.