Stats: Killington features a 3,050-foot-long drop, the second largest in New England. Prep yourself for a 21 lifts, 6 terrain parks, and more than 1,500 acres of skiable terrain divided up into over 150 runs—the longest of which stretches over 6 miles.
The pass situation: All of this can be yours for about $110 if you purchase online in advance, and the resort is also open to those with an Ikon Pass.
Where to eat and drink nearby: For homemade pasta, fresh seafood, creative cocktails, and sometimes even live music, head to The Foundry at Summit Pond. If you’re hoping for a more relaxed outing, Choices Restaurant has everything from tuna to duck to salads to help you refuel after a long day of chasing powder.
Where to stay: The Vermont classic, the Killington Mountain Lodge, comes with cozy fireplaces and views of the scenic Green Mountains. Or, head to Killington Grand Resort, it’s located right at the base of the lifts and complete with a pool, spa, and wellness center.
Jay Peak
Set just four miles south of the Canadian border, Jay Peak has pine forests, powder for days, and some of the best ski terrain on the East Coast. Its location in the Green Mountains makes for plenty of snow, long trails, and a solid blend of intermediate and more advanced runs.
Stats: Nine lifts access over 380 acres of skiable terrain. Though about 40 percent of the trails are black diamonds and another 40 percent are blues, there are still a handful of greens, so beginners shouldn’t shy away from the resort, which averages more than 330 inches of snowfall each year.
The pass situation: Expect to pay $125 on weekends and $129 during peak periods for a single-day adult lift pass. If you’re exploring multi-mountain passes, it is also part of the Indy Pass network, which provides access to over 100 other independently owned resorts in the US, Canada, and Japan. Jay also offers a unique “at par” program so Canadian guests can purchase their lift tickets at par in Canadian dollars.
Where to eat and drink nearby: Alice’s Table, which lies on resort grounds, is the go-to for high-end brunch, filling BBQ on Fridays, and more. Tasty sandwiches and appetizers like the scallop bisque at the High Country Deli at Jay Country Store will keep you coming back for more.
Where to stay: Book a ski-in, ski-out room at the Stateside Hotel and Baselodge or at the Tram Haus Lodge—both are great. If you’re traveling with little ones, consider the Hotel Jay & Conference Center, which offers access to the only indoor waterpark in Vermont.
Smugglers’ Notch
The name of this resort is a throwback to the early 19th century when smugglers would make their way through these woods with contraband goods to and from the Canadian border. The ski resort here is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, its excellent ski school, and a trail system that skews beginner and intermediate. But, don’t make the mistake of thinking there aren’t thrills to be found here—it’s home to the Black Hole, the only triple black diamond on the East Coast.
