Find the right lodge, ski scene, and off-piste adventures for your Vermont-bound crew.
There’s no comparison. Out of all the New England ski areas, Vermont takes the crown hands-down. This state is packed with peaks and terrains of all levels, from steep slopes and thick glades only experts could tackle to long cruiser blues and beginner bunnies. And the best part? The mountain towns themselves are full of charm. Picture historic hamlets with cozy taverns, plus more modern villages with innovative craft breweries and serene spas. And, when you want to kick off your ski boots, there are dozens more activities: dog-sledding, snowshoeing, glass-blowing, and waterparks (yes, even in winter). So, when you’re ready to book a ski trip this season, check out our favorite resorts and highly-rated spots below.
SUGARBUSH
Nestled in the Mad River Valley, smack dab in the heart of Vermont, Sugarbush is a winter wonderland for serious skiers. One of New England’s largest ski areas, it’s spread out between two mountains connected by chairlift and shuttle bus. Mt. Ellen—New England’s third highest peak—has an old-school, low-frills vibe and is where to head if you want to test your mettle on steep runs. Lincoln Peak feels more like a modern resort, with an amenity-rich village and terrain to please all levels. Off the slopes, the town of Warren is full of Norman Rockwell charm while nearby Waterbury (Vermont’s beer capital) is just a half hour away.
- A craft beer mecca
- Tons of terrain for all levels
- Adventurous options galore even for non-skiers
The ski scene
Spanning 4,000-plus acres and 2,600 vertical feet, “the Bush” has every type of terrain you could dream of. Purists gravitate to the rowdy runs of Mt. Ellen, like Black Diamond and FIS. Families tend to stick to the groomers of Lincoln Peak, but experts can find a challenge here too on the natural snow and ungroomed terrain of the Castle Rock area. And if you like tree skiing, you’ll find 28 wooded glades for all abilities.
The best bases on and off the slopes
Sugarbush Resort and the surrounding area has some of the nicest hotels and inns of any Vermont ski town. From the comfort and convenience of the slopeside resorts to modern inns with whimsical New England-themed rooms, there’s something for every budget and taste.
We have stayed in the guesthouse twice and absolutely love it. The space is perfect for me, my husband, and our 14-year-old son. Love the king bed in the separate bedroom and comfy sectional sofa in the living room. …Kitchen is very convenient, we used it for breakfast every morning. Beautiful views of the snowy forest and river. …We will definitely be back.
Where to fuel and refuel
The Mad River Valley is heaven for food-lovers. There’s plenty of fine-dining options and a glut of different cuisines (including French and Thai) on offer. Even simple pub fare like burgers and pizza are elevated with local ingredients.
Super low-key Vermont vibe at this bar and taco joint. Homemade guac is super fresh and a generous serving with crisp salty, taco shells. Definitely try their hot sauces that range in heat from 1-6 and sometimes include a crazy hot 8. Our faves include the carnitas and the slow-burn pork with mango/pineapple salsa.
Good food, good service. Typical Thai, which means it’s pretty spicy but they suggested that I get my “heat” on the side, so I could adjust it myself, which was a great idea. The dishes and flavors were really good. We ate here twice during our week-long stay.
Delicious, unique, and convenient! We tried the warm butternut squash and spinach salad, Maplebrook burratini and grilled radicchio, braised octopus bruschetta, and pan-seared scallops—all of it was a hit! …The dining room is lovely and the bar is delightfully cozy.
This is a great spot for families, with amazing flatbread pizza right out of the oven. Great desserts too—we especially liked the blueberry cobbler. The best part was that you could sit outside [in warm weather] or inside next to the fire in the winter.
Essential après ski
Sugarbush proudly serves only Vermont brews, and with more than 800 options, you’re sure to find the perfect pint. Not a beer fan? The resort’s après ski spots also serve excellent cocktails crafted from the state’s small-batch artisanal spirits.
The venue is amazing, quite new but definitely decked out in traditional VT mountain lodge styling. From the warm welcome at the front door to the incredible bar and waitstaff, it could not have been more personable and genuinely friendly. …The beer menu is extensive and interesting. There are plenty of hop-forward options and others that are more refined and accessible.
Off-piste activities
Mad River Valley is often described as quintessential Vermont and the region’s activities embody all the state is known for. Explore bucolic, snow-dusted scenery on cross-country skis, visit a quirky movie theater, or take a hands-on lesson with one of the region’s many talented artisans. Even in winter, ice cream lovers won’t want to miss a tour of the Ben & Jerry’s factory.
Ole’s has a lot of trails from beginner to expert, plenty of variety from open meadows to wooded areas. The main open area might be cold and windy on really bitter days. There is a small lounging area but one with great views over a lot of the main field area. Other than the snacks, there’s not much to eat [so eat lunch beforehand].
A great place for the ice cream enthusiasts in your family! Fun for all ages. We had the Mini Vermonster, and it did not disappoint. Four scoops of any ice cream flavor, a brownie, cookie, toppings, whipped cream, and sprinkles! Split it and leave satisfied!
I recently took a glass-working class with Spencer and had such a fun time designing two small plates, which are now used almost daily in my household. Spencer was both incredibly knowledgeable, teaching me about the various glass-working processes, and great to talk with as I worked.
[The Big Picture is] a funky little movie theater with two screens that show recent movies. You can sit at a table and eat a meal inside the theater or sit in regular, quite comfortable seats. …The restaurant part of the operation is just a perfect fun bistro-diner type place with cozy booths, sofas and overstuffed chairs, and separate tables; in the summertime, there is casual outdoor seating complete with party lights.
STRATTON
This southern Vermont ski resort is a favorite among New Yorkers and Bostonians for both its fancy amenities and accessibility. While some Vermont mountains require an eight-hour drive, Stratton is under four hours from both urban hubs. The idyllic village is reminiscent of what you’d find in Colorado or the Alps with fine-dining restaurants and boutique shops. High-speed lifts and meticulously groomed trails, plus off-piste adventures like ice skating, tubing, and fat biking make Stratton fun for the whole fam.
Why go now
- Immaculately groomed trails
- Ease of travel
- Fantastic shopping and dining
The ski scene
Endless blue cruisers, speedy lifts, and always-manicured trails make Stratton a hit with the leisure ski crowd. Over 160 of the mountain’s 670-plus acres of skiable terrain are gladed and while the resort caters to novice and intermediates (40 percent of the runs are for beginners), experienced riders and skiers can still find challenges (a quarter of the runs are best for advanced or expert skiers). Mike’s Way to Wanderer, the resort’s longest run at three miles, is always a leg burner. And if you want even quieter slopes, the super mellow slopes of beginner and family-friendly Bromley Mountain are just a 30-minute drive away.
The best bases on and off the slopes
Groups and families will love the multiple condo options close to the slopes and the village’s amenities. Vermont is the capital of B&Bs, and recent renovations added upscale restaurants as well as replaced fusty décor in favor of more modern interiors at a number of Stratton’s hot spots.
Mary Lou and Tim Ricci have outdone themselves with their renovation on this classic, beloved inn. …They continue to add to the property to make things special, such as more firepits, expanded outdoor seating, a massage room and soon the Sugar House will be a gym for guests. Whether you are sitting inside or out, this place is magical.
Where to fuel and refuel
The resort village has elevated pub fare and markets stocked with artisanal goods. Book ahead at one of the top-notch fine-dining spots in the nearby towns of Manchester and Dover.
Suitably quiet jazz music and white linens adds to the ambiance in the dining room. Staff are knowledgeable, attentive, and provide friendly service. In addition to the changing menu there are specials—the heritage beets and goat cheese starter was delicious—as were the rest of our choices including the polpette and arancini.
Their cinnamon buns were delicious, just the right amount of sweet and they were cooked all the way through. Their croissants are the best I’ve had since being back in the U.S., they rivaled some we had in Paris. …Highly recommend stopping in. Just an FYI… there isn’t any seating inside, so don’t plan to hang out and eat your yummies there.
The young lady behind the counter seemed to know everyone’s name and her warm attitude was infectious. Service was fast, and the hot food was really tasty. I am literally drooling thinking about it. …This is the place to eat and also buy prepared meals to take home for dinner—some of the best food around!
Melody and Morgan are the ultimate hostesses while Mark and Noah make magic in the kitchen. …Everything about the dining experience is something to write home about! From the gorgeous décor to the bar made from the shelves of the old library that preceded the restaurant to a menu that makes your mouth water and friendly but professional wait staff, The Silver Fork has it all! We had to have dinner two nights in a row to try all the amazing dishes!
Where to shop
The mountain village is full of designer boutiques and gift shops. If you have a down day, drive to the nearby town of Manchester to bargain hunt the excellent outlets or browse indie bookstores and artisan-run boutiques.
Fantastic collection of both new and used books. The history, music, art, and biography sections were just as well curated as the fiction and general interest books. The children’s area is on the top floor, retaining the lower floor for adult browsing. Excellent suggestions as well!
Off-piste activities
Image: LPETTET/Getty Images
While the slopes are the star attraction, you could easily spend a winter weekend in Stratton and not even strap on skis. The resort and surrounding area has plenty to keep visitors entertained, both indoors and out.
We came home with two gorgeous pieces of art that we still can’t believe we made! Andrew is a master and keeps everyone safe as he teaches you to make your very first piece of blown glass art. My husband and I had so much fun; Andrew is a character. His right-hand man is there by your side and guides you as you make your first piece.
The snowmobiles were so much fun! So happy we decided to book. Our guide Steve was great! We made it up the mountain three times—an amazing experience!
Exceptional beer, burger, service, people. We did a flight and ordered Base Camp Burgers and fries. Delicious. The folks working on a Friday were so friendly and helpful. Very relaxed atmosphere. One of the best microbreweries I have stopped at.
The residence is wonderfully maintained. The story and history is amazing as most people’s knowledge of the Lincoln family fades after Abraham Lincoln’s death. If you enjoy history or period homes, we would strongly recommend that you visit Hildene.
JAY PEAK
Powderhounds across the East Coast make the trek to Vermont’s northernmost ski resort to take advantage of its above-average annual snowfall and unrivaled tree skiing. While the runs at Jay Peak skew intermediate and advanced, the resort amenities—including an indoor water park, skating rink, and climbing gym that doubles as a movie theater—make it super family friendly. Restaurants embrace Vermont’s farm-to-table ethos, but you’ll also find Canadian influences (the border is just four miles north) in regional takes on poutine. It’s also a short drive to countless off-piste activities ranging from dog sledding adventures and brewery tours to spas with salt caves for halotherapy.
- Family friendly
- The East Coast’s best tree skiing
- Great locally-sourced meals and craft brews
The ski scene
What Jay Peak lacks in fancy on-piste amenities, it fully makes up for in what matters most: the fluffy, white stuff. It consistently reports more snow than any other resort in the Northeast, averaging upwards of 330 inches a year. Nine lifts access over 380 acres of skiable terrain. And while 40 percent of the trails are black diamonds and another 40 percent are intermediate, there are still enough low-key runs to help beginners confidently progress. The quality of the snow combined with the resort’s epic tree skiing is what sets Jay apart.
The best bases on and off the slopes
Hardcore skiers who like the convenience of ski-in/ski-out access have plenty of options at the resort. If you want to escape the bustle of the ski village, base yourself a few minutes’ drive from the slopes at one of the region’s cozy inns and B&Bs.
The rustic lodge is spacious, clean, warm and cozy. The innkeepers are a wonderful couple who aim to make your stay special and memorable. We loved the beautiful outdoor amenities, and breakfast was marvelous. It was a great value, and the location is convenient to some really nice pubs and restaurants.
Where to fuel and refuel
Image: VisualCommunications/Getty Images
The food scene is full of delicious surprises. On the slopes, a converted gondola hawks steaming bowls of ramen, and you can grab sweet or savory waffles from an old cabin to nosh on the lift. Off the slopes, the local country store has an excellent deli, and intimate inns offer reservations to their multi-course farm-to-table dinners.
Delicious and hearty! Fresh food for sure. The miso ramen was excellent (I like to add a dash of soy sauce), and the pickled celery was irresistible. I wish they canned and sold it.
We had their weekend dinners for the last three weeks. They were amazing. The prime rib, the scallops, the pork, the salmon, [and] the blackened steak were all very delicious and reasonably priced!
The best way to end a ski day is with a chocolate drizzled waffle! The waffles are made fresh to order and served plain or drizzled in chocolate…[the latter] is a no-brainer.
Sumptuous mushroom soup, mouth-watering grilled salmon, brussel sprouts, and couscous, and apple whiskey pie. This farm-to-table meal was outstanding! The atmosphere was cozy and comfortable, and the service was just right.
Essential après ski
People come to Jay to ski hard, not party hard. What the resort lacks in nightlife it makes up for in the quality of its watering holes. Hard-to-find local craft brews and artisanal spirits are at the heart of most menus and even the pub fare is made from regional ingredients.
The brews are fantastic! We felt that they could give some of the big Vermont breweries a run for their money. Black Spruce Imperial IPA is out of this world. Mild, has a bit of a gin zing, a rich translucent amber color, and a whole lot of yum. Jenn (one of the two hands-on owners) is a gracious approachable host and a pleasure to chat with.
Off-piste activities
Image: Xavier Lorenzo/Getty Images
If you haven’t had enough thrills on the slopes, you can get your fix on a dog sledding adventure or at the resort’s indoor water park. Ready to chill? Float the lazy river, forest bathe on a snowshoe excursion, or relax in the salt caves at a local spa.
Fun waterslides, lazy river, water basketball, climbing wall, little kids area, hot tub, and surfing! Large bar area upstairs if you’re into that. Pools are all pretty shallow three to four feet max. We brought a couple beach towels with us—highly recommended as their towels are child size.
I’d been wanting to come here for quite some time, and it was all that I imagined it would be! My time inside the cave was extremely meditative and restful. Their spacious gift shop is stocked with crystals and much more. I thoroughly enjoyed talking with the manager and owner—they are very knowledgeable and caring.
First visit snowshoeing! Great trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing! They have rentals for both with pull sleds to rent for babies. Note: all dirt roads to get there, but worth it.
Jim, Holly, and Kiana were great and really let my girls get to know the dogs and take part in the entire experience. We did a two-hour tour, and I am sure my family will remember this forever. It is not the cheapest place to dogsled, but it was well worth it to us for the memories, venue, experience, and ethical treatment of the dogs. They also do wheeled sledding in the summer!
KILLINGTON
The largest ski and snowboard destination on the East Coast, Killington’s 4,241-foot summit and its six surrounding peaks have aptly earned it the nickname “the Beast of the East.” With over 150-miles of trails, including the six-mile-long Juggernaut run, and multiple terrain parks, even skeptical West Coast skiers and riders will be pleasantly challenged here. Unreliable East Coast weather isn’t a factor thanks to the resort’s investment in snowmaking technology. Killington typically fires up its snow guns before Thanksgiving and the lifts often keep spinning into early June.
When it comes to après ski action, it’s hard to beat the lively options found along the resort’s five-mile access road. And while the ski resort steals the spotlight in winter, it’s worth taking a down day to discover the quintessential New England charm (and excellent farm-to-table dining) in the neighboring villages of Woodstock and Shelburne.
- The longest ski season in the east
- Fantastic dining and après ski options
- Top-tier moguls
The ski scene
It’s hard to find a resort that can make everyone happy. But Killington’s 1,509 skiable acres have been impressively divvied up to appeal to all levels of skiers and riders. From gentle groomers to the notorious mogul line (Outer Limits) plus a giant half-pipe with 18-foot walls, this mountain’s terrain ticks all the boxes. Craving a change of scenery? Access to nearby, family-friendly Pico Mountain is included on your lift pass.
The best bases on and off the slopes
The Killington Grand is the resort’s only full-service, mountainside stay, so book early. If you prefer something more intimate and cozy, the area has loads of historic inns and darling B&Bs.
It was a perfect experience from the minute we walked in the door. Clinton, at the front desk, could not have been more welcome. The pool is heated to 90 degrees all winter and they have two hot tubs! It is an ideal winter getaway, even if you are not a skier.
Where to fuel and refuel
Farm-to-table is practically Vermont’s state motto. Every Killington restaurant, bar, and café prides itself on spotlighting regional artisans and producers, which makes it tough to ever have a bad meal.
Sitting at the bar gives you access to wonderfully attentive and skilled bartenders. I started with a dozen oysters on the half shell and a Bombay Sapphire gin martini that filled the glass to the brim. The live music was incredible, ambience pitch perfect, and overall experience outstanding.
This is just such a great place, great service, [and] good food, …[with] local crafts available in a modest artful way and a wonderful staff. Full and excellently stocked bar. Best regular drip coffee anywhere.
Staff is extremely friendly and prompt. Food is as good as it’s going to get. Thin crust, homemade sauce, and cooked to perfection. The last time I had this style of pizza was in southern Italy.
Where to get your culture fix
Killington is better known for its outdoor sports, but Rutland County’s small communities bring impressive acts to perform at their charming playhouses and theaters. And the work of the region’s artists are on display at local galleries and boutiques.
Charming, remodeled venue that takes you back in the day. The acoustics are wonderful for music-based shows and its intimate size makes no seat a bad seat. We love the Paramount!
Essential après ski
Killington’s raucous après ski scene is legendary amongst New Englanders. From rowdy dive bars and craft breweries to low-key artisanal cocktail spots with great food, you’ll be sure to find a scene that suits your mood.
The pickle barrel is a MUST! The drinks are good, the vibes are out of this world, and the entertainment never disappoints. I’ll be sure to return on my next trip to VT.
The food was excellent and we had some great beers (Juic’d Hazy IPA and Wild Beary Wheat). I highly recommend getting here when the brewery opens at lunchtime to avoid big crowds. We sat outside with our dog and enjoyed the beautiful view.
Awesome food and awesome service. Best spot in Killington and Duffy was the man! The Cajun wings were especially good. The interior is awesome and for sure one of the best party spots in the town.
We had gin and tonics, made with their own delicious gin. Later, we shared a tasting of two gins and two tequilas. …It was a Friday, and there was a guitarist who was great too.
