Time to take out those boots and break out the hand warmers, winter’s just around the bend! As the Northeast gradually transforms into a flurrying snow globe, all who are fans of the winter wonderland have one common thought: SKIING. New England resorts take pride in their varied terrain, plush snow, family friendly mountains and overall winter offerings. But at the end of the day, some places just do it a little better. If you’re looking to hit up the slopes that suit you best this winter, here’s the ultimate guide to skiing in the region.
SNOW
Jay Peak, a slope Set in northern Vermont near the Canadian border, lays claim to receiving the most snow in North America, averaging 400 inches a season. If you love the white fluffy stuff, now you know where to go.
ADVENTURE
Warren, VT’s Sugarbush consists of 2,000+ acres of backcountry and the only Cat skiing in the East. Looking for awesome adventure, hit up this six-peak mountain for an unforgettable time.
EXPERT TERRAIN
Sugarloaf, located in Carrabassett Valley, Maine, boasts the only lift-serviced, above-treeline skiing in the East. Catch some of the steepest terrain, and the longest continuous fall line in New England when you come to this resort. If you’re sure your legs can hold up, head to the 4,237-foot summit to play in the Western-style, open snowfields and more double black diamond skiing than you can imagine.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Over in Jefferson, VT, Smugglers’ Notch has been catering to families of all sorts for 15 years now. With countless off-slope activities for all ages, cozy housing, dining and high quality lessons offered, there’s no way anyone could get bored.
VIEWS
Looking for those breathtaking moments when you finally reach the mountaintop, look out and just think, “wow?” Wildcat Mountain is sure to drop jaws with its absolutely beautiful 4,062-foot summit. Located in Pinkham Notch, NH, you’ll want to be sure you grab a panoramic postcard before you leave!
SNOWBOARDING
Home to US Open Rail Jam winner, Shaun Murphy, Mount Snow is sure to satisfy any boarder in search of jumps, jibs, pipes and parks. In West Dover, VT, this mountain has eight parks in total, a gigantic superpipe and around 5 miles of trails winding through all natural, totally shredable terrain.
GROOMING
Obsessed with the feel of a freshly combed slope beneath your skis or board? Okemo, located in Ludlow, VT, will rock your ski socks right off once you get wind of its perfectly groomed face. High-tech Snocats continually rake wide carpets of velvety snow for your satisfaction.
OFF MOUNTAIN PAMPERING
Just as interested in the quality of off-slope services as you are with the trails themselves? Then you’ll definitely want to head to Stowe Mountain Resort in Stowe, VT. This resort will blow you away with its fine dining, pampering spa treatments and plush digs. You’re sure to be pampered with more than 40 on-and-off-the-mountain restaurants, shopping at 75 stores and elegant accommodations.