Best Ski Resorts near Burlington - VT

The largest ski resort in the eastern U.S., Killington encompasses seven distinct mountain areas, including the second-highest peak in Vermont. Known as the “Beast of the East” for its lofty vertical drop, this ski destination knows how to lure thrill-seekers. The Canyon area and the Big Dipper offer plenty of challenging runs for more experienced powder hounds. But that doesn’t mean those new to snow sports won’t have fun. The entire Snowshed Lodge area is designed with beginners in mind, and the resort’s ski school will have you feeling confident on your skis or board in no time.

Sugarbush caters to skiers and snowboarders who like to feel as though they have the slopes to themselves. As one of the largest resorts on the East Coast, Sugarbush encompasses around 4,000 acres of skiable terrain across six mountains. It also features three terrain parks perfect for practicing tricks. This massive Vermont ski resort caters to all skill levels, with its 111 marked trails relatively equally divided between beginner, intermediate and expert. The resort also provides top-tier instruction and an adaptive ski program, so everyone can enjoy a day on the mountain.

Considered both luxurious and family-friendly, Stowe Mountain has a lot going for it. The resort occupies the tallest mountain in Vermont, and many have said its snowpack is the best in the North East. What’s more, Stowe is known for its variety, offering everything from well-groomed, beginner-friendly trails to unrefined, high-elevation terrain. Over the past several years, Stowe has invested in renovations to its facilities, including a high-speed peak-to-peak gondola. Add to that the resort’s acclaimed ski school and dining facilities, and you can see why it’s called the “Queen of the East”.

Once overshadowed by its neighbor, Stowe Mountain, Smugglers’ Notch has stepped out into the spotlight in recent years. It has received acclaim from experts and skiers for its primo powder and welcoming atmosphere. Although only around 20% of its runs are designed for beginners, Smugglers’ Notch has earned the nickname “America’s Family Resort” for its kids’ programs and family-friendly activities. The resort also welcomes experienced skiers and snowboarders with rugged expert terrain and the East Coast’s only triple-black-diamond run, Black Hole.

Pico Mountain has come a long way since opening day in 1937, when skiers relied on a 1,200-foot rope tow powered by a Hudson Motor Car engine. For example the resort recently installed thousands of feet of piping, infinitely upping their snowmaking game. This medium-sized ski resort offers a nice alternative to nearby Killington, particularly for more practiced skiers. Nearly 50% of Pico’s 57 trails are designed for the intermediate level, and close to 40% are perfect for pros. Pico Mountain also offers opportunities to snowshoe, and to explore the Green Mountains by snowmobile or horse-drawn sleigh.

Mad River Glen caters to more experienced skiers, as it encompasses some of the most challenging terrain in the region. What’s more, this resort’s relatively uncrowded slopes allow powderhounds to move more freely than at other resorts (regulars particularly love the single-chair lifts). That said, those who still need some help getting their footing can take advantage of Mad River Glen’s renovated ski school facility, and rest their legs at the recently revamped Basebox lodge area. What’s more, Mad River Glen offers access to their slopes for a noticeably lower rate than their competitors.

Just 30 minutes from Burlington, Bolton Valley’s 71 trails are fairly evenly divided in terms of skill level, allowing everyone from newbies to experts to enjoy the 300 inches of annual snowfall. But what really sets Bolton Valley apart from other Vermont ski resorts are its epic backcountry trails and its night skiing opportunities. The resort’s expansive backcountry terrain encompasses some of the highest slopes in the Green Mountains, and offers expansive views of Lake Champlain. And with more night skiing than any other Vermont ski destination, you’re guaranteed plenty of time on the slopes.

Established in the 1960s by Mickey and Ginny Cochran as a place for kids to learn to ski, Cochran is still going strong. And its reputation is bolstered by the fact that all four of the Cochran’s children made the U.S. Ski Team and raced in the Olympics. Today, the resort remains in the Cochran family as a non-profit dedicated to instruction. Professionals provide group and private lessons in a family-oriented environment all at affordable rates. For extended instruction, parents can enroll their little ones in the Cochran Ski Club.