The 5 Best Ski Resorts in New England

While there are many ski resorts in New England, we’ve done our best to narrow down our list to the top 5. You might also want to check out our top New Hampshire winter activities if your travels take you to the Granite State. There’s nothing quite like skiing in New England.

Ski the East

Since New England winters can be long, staying active is a necessity. And even though New England isn’t graced with the kind of cloud-scraping mountains that one finds in Colorado, California or British Columbia, ski resorts are littered all over the states that make up Northern New England. Thankfully, even though there aren’t real high-altitude peaks in Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, or New Hampshire, you’ll surely find the right one that fits your skiing, lodging and distance preferences. Skiing with kids in New England? Freestyle or snowboarding in New England? Looking for a low-cost skiing option? Luxury, brew pubs, and amenities your thing? You won’t really find a single place that figuratively or literally towers above the rest, but you’ll most likely find a few “go-to” resorts that meet your needs. We definitely have and we hope this list helps you with your own planning. Before you know it, you’ll be slapping a “Ski the East” sticker on your vehicle and singing the praises of your favorite resort.

Below are our top 5 recommended ski resorts in New England. While we admittedly favor ski resorts that cater to the needs of kids, other factors played into our assessment: snow quality, value, resort size, nearby activities, ability to ski or snowboard at the same resort and location, snowmaking capability and average snowfall.

1. Sunday River (ME)

Hands down, Sunday River is our favorite choice. We hope that you’ll agree if you’re able to visit. In many ways, it holds its own with some of the more altitude-blessed and expansive resorts on the West Coast. With eight individual peaks and an altitude of almost 2,500 feet, it feels immense after skiing the smaller resorts littered all over New England. And when mother nature is unable to provide snow, Sunday River is exceptionally well equipped to create its own. This particular strength of the resort is extremely helpful for those stretches of winter that drop ice all over New England and Sunday River’s snow-making capability will only improve into the future as they continue to significantly improve their snow-making infrastructure. If you live in the area, we can’t say enough about the season pass or better yet, the much-loved Ikon pass.

Sunday River Slopes

Location: Newry, Maine
Vertical Rise: 2,340 feet
Acres of Terrain: 870 (668 skiable acres)
Average Snowfall: 167 inches
Trails: 135 trails and glades; 30 percent are beginner, 36 percent intermediate, and 34 percent advanced/expert
Best Options for Ski Tickets: Purchase at Liftopia (from $39.00)

Unlike other resorts in New Hampshire and Maine, you won’t feel like you’ve tapped out your trail options by the middle or end of the day. After hitting it hard on the Heat Bowl, ski over to the other side of the park where you’ll find the Jordan Bowl. In between, you’ll find 5 other peaks and numerous trails for skiers or snowboarders of every level. With each new ski lift you hop on, you’ll meet an interesting mix of visitors: loyal, long-time Sunday River retirees who have been punching their ticket for a few decades; weekend warrior season ticket holders from Maine and New Hampshire; college kids; second-home owners who come from as far south as New York; and everyone in between. If you’re wondering why there appear to be so many little kids everywhere, it’s because Sunday River runs a large ski school and also hosts the the Gould Ski Academy.

Sunday River Terrain Parks

If you’re into rails, jumps, boxes and other terrain park features, Sunday River offers some excellent options. The resorts has six terrain parks and each one has its own signature collection of rails, jumps and natural features. The 15-acre T72 Park is the largest of the terrain parks and has the the longest half pipe in the East. One of the more popular runs is the narrow, but well-designed, Goat Path. The crossover Tourist Trap trail will typically offer a challenge for even more advanced skiers since the moguls and ice on this trail seems to get more challenging by the end of the day.

Thankfully, you probably won’t ever be slowed down by crowds since Sunday River’s location places it just north of the southern New England and Mid Atlantic crowds. And for us northern New Englanders who don’t mind the shorter lines, that’s just fine. Because of its status as the second-biggest winter snow-sports resort in the Northeast and its relatively isolated location, it’s our number one option for skiing in New England. Truth be told, the parking lots do fill up during the holidays or after a good snow, but the park’s size helps diffuse peak crowds; especially in the northwestern edge of the resort. Even when you have to park in the lower lot (lot 5), you’re still within an easy walk of the slopes and the shuttles run frequently between the lots and the base lodge. We’ve rarely had to wait for more than five minutes for the shuttle and if you do, use the opportunity to meet some new people.
In addition to a favorable terrain, Sunday River has some legitimate amenities. While the resort is family-friendly, it also commands the attention of the hippest hipsters with craft brew served on the deck, the Jordon Hotel’s hot tub or one of the on- or off-mountain cafes or restaurants. You’ll even find a small sushi restaurant tucked into the base lodge near the cafeteria. If you have an itch to explore the environs, you won’t be disappointed if you find yourself in Bethel, Maine.

Food

While there are some other towns nearby, Bethel packs a punch in terms of good restaurants per square mile. Our favorite restaurant is ChoSun, which offers authentic Korean food and a comfortable apres-ski bar. Don’t miss the banchan (side dishes) that accompany the Bibimbop. You really can’t go wrong with any option here. You can also pick up some coffee and phenom bagels at Cafedicocoa. There are few better ways to spend a full day in Bethel and Newry than filling it with bagels from Cafedicocoa, skiing at Sunday River and dinner at ChoSun.

Where to Stay

The upscale ski-in/ski-out Jordan Hotel is a solid choice for couples or families looking for a measure of luxury and direct access to the lifts. If you stay at the Jordan Hotel, soak in the hot tub, kick back in an Adirondack chair next to the fire pit with Sriracha and molasses wings or warm-up near a fireplace.

If you’re looking for a little more space near the resort, you’ll also find many ski-in/out VRBO options as well. if it’s still available, check out this wondrous VRBO rental property located right next to the Quad chair. If you’re looking for the top shelf option, the Grand Summit Hotel is a good choice. Of the two (Jordan Hotel or the Grand Summit), the Jordan Hotel has higher ratings and many enjoy the ski out option to the Jordan Bowl.

If you’re looking for the lowest-cost option that will work for singles or families, check out the Quality Inn and Suites in Gorham. Although it’s 30 minutes away, you’ll find a respectable gym, pool and clean rooms for about $100 per night. This is our go-to option when we’re trying to keep our budget in check. You should also check out the rewards card at the Royalty Inn Hotel since you can reduce your costs over time using the card. About a month after signing up, we received a coupon for 50% off in the mail. We also like the Royalty Inn Hotel because they have a 48-hour cancellation that allows you to change your plans if the weather isn’t cooperating.

Our Favorites

• Must-Ski Runs: When it’s busy, stay on the edge of the resort—in the White Cap or Jordan Bowl peaks. If you take the Lollapalooza trail off the Jordan express lift, you’ll drop right into the Jordan Grand Hotel and Sliders Restaurant, which is the place to be in the late afternoon for a lunch or to kick your boots up. If you make your way over to the Jordan Bowl, your effort will be rewarded with shorter lines and demanding runs like Excalibur.
• In the morning, take the Chondola lift to North Peak Lodge for a signature sticky bun and a bloody mary.
• Best Après: The Barker Bar on Barker Mountain at the base of Monday Mourning run.
• Local Tip: Park at White Cap Lodge, the first lodge you come to as you drive up the access road. It’s rarely crowded and has easy access to all the trails. At the end of the day, you can ski directly to the base of White Cap from all eight peaks, or you can take a shuttle back if you après somewhere else.

2. Sugar Loaf (ME)

Sugarloaf is something of a cult phenomenon among passionate New England skiers; many of whom are either well-heeled second-home owners driving in from southern Maine or Massachusetts or live an hour or two from the resort. The mountain makes its impression as soon as you approach it. 10 degrees below zero with strong winds? “Loafers” will still be lined up and ready to hit the slopes. When the sun is shining on a warmer day, there’s no better place to be in New England.

Sugarloaf is the second-highest mountain in Maine at 4,237 feet. What’s unique about Sugarloaf, besides its remote location in the Carrabassett Valley, is the breathtaking views from the windblown summit. The above treeline skiing from the summit (the Sugarloaf Snowfields) is unique. The Snowfields are the only lift-serviced above-treeline terrain in the East and as you wrap up the day, your mind will undoubtedly wander back to memories of carving well-groomed snow as you ski down picture-perfect trails. Don’t forget to bring your camera, a water bottle that will withstand cold weather and your extra warm winter socks as there are few things more beautiful than the views from the Sugarloaf Snowfields when the tree-covered ridge is covered with snow and framed by blue sky. You might also want to rent a camper or RV if you’re interested in camping overnight in a parking lot. But back to the snow…

The mountain gets an average of 200 inches of snow per winter, which isn’t bad for a 10-year average. Although skiers originally from the West Coast–like me–sometimes bemoan the lack of powdery conditions, skiing on the East Coast forces one to acclimate to skiing in ice and more difficult conditions. It’s no wonder that 11 Olympians, including skier Bode Miller and snowboarder Seth Wescott, call Sugarloaf their home mountain. While you’ll need to negotiate ice from time to time, Sugarloaf is one of the better go-to options after a fresh snow. Sugarloaf is also known as a destination for other activities if your legs are tired of skiing.

Sugar Loaf Slopes

Location: Carrabassett Valley, Maine
Vertical Rise: 2,820 feet
Acres of Terrain: 1,230 (668 skiable acres)
Average Snowfall: 200 inches
Trails: 162 trails and glades; 23 percent are beginner, 34 percent intermediate, and 27 percent advanced, 16% expert
Best Options for Ski Tickets: Purchase at Liftopia (from $39.00)

So you’re not a fan of alpine skiing? Head down to the Valley to the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center, where you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, ice skate, or mountain bike with one of those cool “fat tire” cycles. The Outdoor Center has more than 90km of Nordic ski trails and an NHL-sized rink, as well as a beautiful view of Sugarloaf. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to chill out, the Outdoor Center is an excellent candidate, with quiet woods and a little café to sit and relax.

Surrounding Area

Surprisingly, there are lots of options in the area if you’re looking for a break from skiing. In the winter, our favorite place to burn some energy is the Anti Gravity Complex. You’ll find indoor basketball courts, large trampolines, a gym and a skate park–all for a fair price of admission.

As mentioned earlier, a trip to the Outdoor Center is worth your time. It’s fee for those who have a ski lift ticket have access to snowshoeing, cross country skiing, fat tire biking and an ice skating rink; even though some of the activities will cost something for gear.

Food

There are numerous restaurants in the area, but you’ll find some of the best in nearby Kingfield. We recommend Rolling Fatties for their good Mexican food and cool ambiance. The Orange Cat also serves a mean breakfast and sandwiches that you can eat there or take with you. In Carrabassett Valley, you should also check out the Shipyard Brewhaus. You’ll find good beer, pizza, salads, burgers and some other options.

Where to Stay

There are some very nice VRBO options you should check for availability. One of our favorites is a ski-in/out condo. You can also find a list of VRBO options for Carrabassett Valley here. The Sugarloaf Inn is another good option if you’re looking for a local option at a moderate price.

Our Favorites

• Must-Ski Run: If you’re a beginner or intermediate skier, the Birches and Landing area is a good option. The Whiffletree run is another good option along with Scoot, Windrow, Glancer, and Horseshoe.

3. Killington (VT)

Kown affectionately as the “Beast of the East,” Killington is Vermont’s biggest ski resort with over 1,509 acres of mountainside. Killington Peak, the highest summit in the resort, reaches up to 4,241 feet.
Any way you cut or carve it, Killington is a destination if you’re looking for a memorable place to ski in Vermont. The base lodge and surrounding area are gorgeous with a lot of money being poured into the facility over the last decade. The Snowmaking is vast and typically provides the 30 lifts with more than enough snow when mother nature isn’t cooperating. The downside of these features is that the resort attracts skiers from all over, which at times results in long lift lines.

Even though Killington is relatively large for a New England ski resort, its identity is largely defined by its beautiful lodges and proximity to world-class craft breweries, excellent apres-ski activities and great food options. With six separate base lodges and a wide variety of terrain connecting each lodge, skiers of every level will find a section of the resort that speaks to them. Beginners will be particularly smitten with the open green at Snowshed, while intermediate skiers will be at home on the Juggernaut run. The Juggernaut carries the distinction of being the longest ski trail in the eastern United States. If you’re an advanced skier, you check out the Anarchy double black diamond run.

Killington Slopes

Location: Killington, Vermont
Vertical Drop: 3,050 feet
Acres of Terrain: 1,977 (includes Pico Mountain)
Average Snowfall: 250 inches per year
Trails: 155 at Killington and 57 at Pico Mountain.  About 25% of these are easy runs.
Best Options for Ski Tickets: Purchase at Liftopia (from $39.00)

 

 

Even though most of the action is on the Killington Resort slopes, don’t forget to log some time at Pico Mountain, a detached, separate mountain. Since it’s owned by the same company, you’ll have access to this hidden gem. With 1,967 vertical feet and more than 50 trails, Pico is bigger than 80% of the other resorts in New England. If you wander over to Pico Mountain, you’ll find fewer crowds, great views, a comfortable lodge and family-friendly trails that are reminiscent of old-time New England skiing. Check out the video below to gain a sense of what Killington looked like in its early years.

Surrounding Area

Killington’s signature strength is its location and diversity of activities. Wander around the base of the resort and you’ll find a host of outdoor activities such as sledding, gondola rides, ski bike rentals, snow shoe tours, tubing and even a mountain roller coaster. If you’re lucky enough to be here in the summer, you’ll find a parallel world of outdoor activities with downhill mountain biking at the center of this warmer version of Killington. Suffice it to say that either season is loaded with options to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of Vermont.

Like a lot of things at Killington, the access road to the resort is still evolving. It was at one time littered with a few burger shops, but you can now find sushi, designer shopping and some upscale accommodations.

 

Food

There are some good places to eat at the base of the mountain. You’ll find a list of options on the Killington resort website. The resort lodge is particularly impressive with its views and many options. You should also swing by the Waffle Cabin, where you can load up on some warm waffles.

Since you’re not far from Woodstock, Vermont, you may want to drive 30 minutes and bounce between some of the tremendous options there. The Lincoln Inn & Restaurant is a particularly good option if you’re looking for a top-of-the shelf option in a quintessential New England setting.

Where to Stay

There are some very nice VRBO options you should check for availability. One of our favorites is this beauty right near the lodge. You can also find a list of VRBO options for Killington here.

Our Favorites

• Must-Ski Runs: 

  Check out Snowdon Mountain area and use Bunny Buster as a warm-up. After logging a run or two here, advance to more difficult trails via the same lift. Or, slide over to the skier’s left and check out the Rams Heads area. Later in the day, the Bear Mountain lifts are an ideal place to finish the day. It’s warmer, less crowded and you’ll find yourself navigating some of the better snow on the mountain.

4. Jay Peak (VT)

Even though Jay Peak is in the middle of nowhere–7 miles from the Canadian border–it is still a destination for powder hounds and families who want to split their time between Jay Peak’s indoor water park, ski runs, restaurants, recreation center, and indoor ice arena.

While there are plenty of groomed trails, Jay Peak has become a destination for those seeking off-piste terrain since its runs are often covered with more snowfall than any other resort in New England. Even though knee-deep power would normally draw a larger following in New England, Jay Peak’s remote location is something of a reality check for those coming from Massachusetts and other locations south of Vermont. Because of its remote location, it’s rare you’ll ever have to battle a crowd at Jay Peak while you put down tracks in the glades.

Killington Slopes

Location: Jay, Vermont
Vertical Drop: 2,153 feet
Acres of Terrain: 385
Average Snowfall: 349 inches per year (highest in New England)
Trails: 81 on 9 runs.  About 20% of these are easy runs.
Best Options for Ski Tickets: Purchase at Liftopia (from $39.00)

Our final thoughts on Jay Peak skiing? While there are many superior resorts for skiing in New England, we like Jay Peak because of the small crowds, snow and a family-friendly environment. And even though the indoor water park isn’t as large as Wolf Lodge, there’s enough there to keep most kids busy–and warm–for at least a day or two.  In terms of Jay Peak’s runs, there’s something for everyone at Jay Peak. Do keep in mind that there are no mid-mountain lifts at Jay Peak, so you’re always skiing the full length of each run from peak to base. In general, runs are well marked and can be navigated easily with a trail map.

Surrounding Area

If you had visited Jay, Vermont a decade ago, you wouldn’t have found very much to do or eat. While Jay is still a small town struggling with geographical challenges, there are some serviceable restaurants in Jay, you’re not going to find the same variety compared with larger resorts. We especially recommend the Miso Hungry Ramen Hut.

Where to Stay

As of early 2019, there were 111 rental listings at or near the resort. Our favorite property on this list is a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom town home that accommodates up to 7 people. If it’s still available, you’ll be lucky enough to stay in a ski in-out with modern amenities and plenty of space (1100 square feet). If you have a larger group, this 2000 square foot rental property has 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and sleeps up to 14. It’s located right on the Grammy Trail for easy ski in-ski out.

Our Favorites

• Must-Ski Runs: 

  Jay Peak is really all about tree or glade skiing. There are lots of options in this regard, but you may want to start with the Quarter/Half/Full runs since there are some nice places to drop into tree skiing from the groomed trail(s).

5. Stowe Mountain (VT)

If you live to ski, Stowe Mountain, or any of our other choices may not enthrall you if you’re a season pass holder and you”re looking for wide, groomed trails that drop out of the clouds. “Ski the East” is all about getting outdoors and appreciating the laid-back, New England vibe that permeates most resorts. It’s for that reason that Stowe Mountain makes our list of top 5 ski resorts in New England. Although the skiing might be ho-hum compared to Lake Tahoe or Vail, the town of Stowe will envelope you in charm, warm fire-side meals and some of the country’s best craft brew. Stowe is quintessential New England cool, with a dash of five-star luxury. You’ll pay dearly for access to the comforts that one can find in Stowe, but if you’re like me and the majority of New Englanders, you’ll be relieved to know that there are housing and food options for the rest of us.

Stowe Mountain

Location: Stowe, Vermont
Vertical Drop: 2,358 feet
Acres of Terrain: 485
Average Total Snowfall: 333inches per year
Trails: 16 on 12 lifts.  About 16% of these are easy runs and 55% are intermediate
Best Options for Ski Tickets: Purchase at Liftopia (from $39.00)

Even though Stowe is best known for its surrounding hotels, restaurants, breweries and snow-capped church steeples, the skiing here is legit. Stowe really excels with the speed and length of their lifts. Case in point, their 10-person inter-mountain transfer gondola carries skiers to and from Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield base areas, which were previously separated by Highway 108. Stowe Mountain Resort is also blessed with proximity to Vermont’s highest mountain, Mount Mansfield, at 4,393 feet. If you’re an expert skier and you’re looking for the best height available in New England, make your way over to Mansfield and enjoy some solid back country skiing (but be careful along the way).

Thankfully, when the resort is snow deficient, the resort has enough snow-making to cover 90 percent of the mountain. No other resorts can match Sunday River for its snow-making prowess, but Stowe isn’t too far behind. If you are an advanced skier, you shouldn’t be disappointed with your time here. The “Front Four” trails — National, Goat, Starr and Liftline —provide good options. Be aware that an expert run on the East Coast isn’t always categorized in the same way as an expert run in some other part of the country; especially when ice factors into the conditions. If you do plan on tackling the front four, we recommend starting with  Hayride with National next. Next, Liftline and then Starr. If you have any cartilage in your knees after completing the first three runs, it’s time to tackle Goat. Goat is something to behold with its steep, rutted, winding narrow path cutting through bumpy terrain.

Although less than 20% of the resort is geared for beginners, Spruce Peak is a good fit for non-expert skiers and if you can make your way to this area after 1 p.m, you’re likely to a lot of sun and softer snow since this part of the mountain faces south. You’ll find 1,460 feet of vertical at Spruce Peak with several well-designed top-to-bottom runs.

Surrounding Area

Where to begin? Even for New England residents, Stowe creates a sort of giddy appreciation if you have a soft spot for classic early-19th century New England villages. It’s the right size for a walk from one side of town to the other and the density of quaint shops, restaurants and beautiful architecture creates an aesthetic that represents the best of New England. While the gloss and logo-heavy signage can at times feel out of place in Vermont, every inch of Stowe combines historical authenticity with contemporary chic. It’s hard to recommend a particular destination in Stowe since there are so many options for the economical traveler and for the ultra-wealthy visitor. For the former, the Stowe Recreation Path is a perfect outdoor option and almost demands one stop at the Alchemist Brewery to pick up some of the nation’s best craft beer. If you can make the time, consider driving up to Hill Farmstead Brewery so you can cross it off your bucket list–one of the best breweries in the country. The Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center has a lot to do in any season and there are many other trails and areas you can snow shoe, cross country ski or walk. If budget isn’t an issue, Stowe offers unique lodging and recreational activities. Spruce Creek sits at the top of the list with its wide assortment of activities and perfect-picture ice skating rink. Oh, and if you’ve ever wanted to do some ice climbing, there are several outfitters who can set you up with the appropriate ice climbing gear in Stowe and provide instruction as you traverse a frozen waterfall.

Where to Stay

If you book early, there are numerous rental options at Spruce Creek Resort. This Spruce Creek VRBO rental can be rented as a 2-bedroom or 1-bedroom, but should be locked up early since it’s very popular. For the budget blessed traveler, there are also 2-bedroom rental options available at the Stowe Mountain Lodge. There are more than 300 rentals in Stowe if you’re looking for a lower-cost option that isn’t connected to the ski resort.

Our Favorites

• Must-Ski Runs:
  Ski Magazine did a good job ranking their favorite Stowe Resort runs.