Where to Ski in New England: Eight Great Destinations
Everything you need to know—from new high-speed lifts and expanded terrain to cozy après-ski spots and insider tips from local experts—about the best of New England skiing, all within a few hours' drive from Boston.
Sunday River’s winter wonderland is waiting for you. / Photo by Sunday River Resort
From Vermont’s legendary “Beast of the East” to Maine’s majestic Sugarloaf, New England’s mountains have been beckoning snow seekers for generations. Our comprehensive guide takes you through eight of the region’s most exceptional destinations, where modern amenities meet classic New England charm. We’ve gathered everything you need to know—from new high-speed lifts and expanded terrain to cozy après-ski spots and insider tips from local experts—to bring you the best of what New England skiing has to offer, all within a few hours’ drive from Boston.
Where to Ski in New England
| Vermont | Maine | New Hampshire | Massachusetts |
Killington. / Courtesy
VERMONT
Killington
What’s New: With more than 200 trails and nearly 2,000 skiable acres, including Pico Mountain, sometimes it’s as much about what’s still the same at the “Beast of the East.” Killington remains on the 50-plus-destination Ikon Pass, making it more affordable than ever, and offers multiple high-speed chairs, so you can brag to your friends about how many trails you crushed and your total vert achieved (thank you, Ski Tracks app!).
Insider Tip: Be sure to scout out your preferred trails and hit them early, as the popular beginner and intermediate runs on the lower sections of the mountain, like Superstar, can get carved out fast. Best to start your day at the bottom of the mountain and work your way up. For the kids, the tubing park is a great idea if they get skied out.
The slopeside Ledgewood Yurt at Killington. / Photo courtesy of Killington Resort
Après Ski: At the base of the mountain, the K-1 Base Lodge is the preferred spot to kick your boots off and raise a toast to the conquered day. On weekends and peak days, head to the slope-side Ledgewood Yurt, where the eclectic menu pairs nicely with the authentic alpine atmosphere—winter squash soup, beef short ribs, and homemade mac ’n’ cheese, to name just a few dishes.
Where to Stay: It’s hard to beat the Mountain Inn. Located at the base of the resort, the newly renovated yet rustic property is the first distillery hotel in New England, with the Killington Distillery serving up its small-batch spirits right inside.
Parking: Locals choose to park at Skyeship, as the lot and the gondola line are always less crowded there. Great Eastern, a nice long beginner trail from the top, is a perfect warm-up run. To reserve a spot a little closer to the lifts, there are two paid parking options available for select dates: Preferred Parking at K-1 and Valet Parking at Snowshed. Paid parking must be reserved online in advance.
Hitting the slopes at Stratton. / Photo courtesy of Stratton Mountain Resort
Stratton
VERMONT
What’s New: Since 1961, when it debuted with just eight trails and three lifts, Stratton has been a bit ahead of the curve (see: the Alps-like vibe, from the Tyrolean-style architecture of the village to the relaxed atmosphere on the slopes). It’s also ahead of the curve technologically: Recently, its Learning Zone was upgraded with three new moving carpet lifts, and all base lifts now feature RFID technology, so tickets don’t need to be checked manually.
Insider Tip: If you like to savor that last run of the day, take Mike’s Way to Wanderer and enjoy 3 miles of bliss.
Aprés fun at Drift. / Photo courtesy of Stratton Mountain Resort
Après Ski: You’ll warm up in no time at the Drift, which has ceiling heaters, fire pits, and a creative cocktail menu that includes “The Bomb” (hot eggnog and brandy). For a divey yet welcoming vibe, try the Green Door Pub, which has plenty of fun bar games, including pool.
Where to Stay: One of the newest properties in the area is the Weston. Formerly the Inn at Weston, the hotel has been rebranded by the team behind New York City’s Carlyle and Gramercy Park hotels, adding some big-city polish to the grand-country-home ambiance.
Parking: The three main lots—1, 2, and the Sun Bowl—are all free and first come, first serve.
Stowe’s iconic red gondola. / Photo courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe
VERMONT
What’s New: Tired of hauling your equipment to and from the mountain? Stowe has a new deal with My Epic Gear that gives skiers and riders the benefits of gear ownership with zero hassle. Members can enjoy daily slopeside pick-up and drop-off—and it’s available through the My Epic app. On the mountain, the new Sunrise Six chairlift (introduced during the 2022 to 2023 season) has helped reduce lift lines, which is good because the slopes can get crowded at this venerable resort.
Insider Tip: Be sure to take advantage of the complimentary Over Easy Gondola, which connects Spruce Peak with Mount Mansfield. Not only will you stay warm, but you’ll also get more runs in.
Après Ski: The WhistlePig Pavilion at the Village at Spruce Peak serves delicious barbecue and raclette, and offers whiskey tastings. In town, the iconic Matterhorn is a favorite among locals and visitors. Go for the party atmosphere; stay for the sushi and generous pours.
Where to Stay: Just minutes from the resort, Edson Hill elevates the traditional B & B experience with 22 elegant rooms in the main and guest houses. The property is set on 38 picturesque acres and features a Nordic Center with 6 miles of trails for cross-country skiing and 3 miles of trails for snowshoeing.
Parking: Paid parking is available on the weekends, but free parking is first come, first serve at the Mansfield lots from Monday to Thursday, and at the Toll House area lots every day.
See also
A Weekend Getaway Guide to Stowe, Vermont
12 Must-Visit Restaurants in Stowe, Vermont
Stealing a smooch on Sugarloaf’s ski lift. / Photo by Chris Bennett/Getty Images
MAINE
Sugarloaf
What’s New: Nothing gets skiers and boarders more hyped than new trails, and Sugarloaf has you snow-covered. This year marks the first full season of the new West Mountain terrain, which opened in February 2024 along with the Bucksaw Express quad chairs and nine new beginner and intermediate trails. A tenth trail, Twitcher, will be added this season, giving skiers and riders another fresh place to shred.
Insider Tip: Looking to hit the slopes early? With new snowmaking equipment installed, this may be one of the first mountains in the area to open this year.
Warming up at the Widowmaker Lounge. / Photo courtesy of Sugarloaf
Après Ski: It can be hard to find a stool at the Widowmaker Lounge, and for good reason. After all, when the drinks are strong and quads are burning, who wants to stand? Located at the top of the base lodge, the lounge also offers panoramic views and live music.
A view of the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel. / Photo courtesy of Sugarloaf
Where to Stay: Just 100 yards from the SuperQuad, the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel is the resort’s signature place to stay. And no wonder: With perks such as included breakfast every morning, a 30-person outdoor hot tub, and a health club with a sauna and steam room, it’s the perfect place to fuel up and wind down before and after a day on the slopes.
Parking: Parking is always free in all of Sugarloaf’s lots—what a concept! Shuttle services to condos and villages throughout the Carrabassett Valley are also complimentary and operated by the Sugarloaf Explorer.
A ski lift at Sunday River. / Photo courtesy of Sunday River Resort
Sunday River
MAINE
What’s New: Since 1958, Maine’s most venerable mountain resort has been slowly expanding across the Mahoosuc Mountains. It now spans eight interconnected peaks with 139 trails, 66 percent of which are beginner and intermediate. But that’s not all: Last December, it debuted one of the fastest (and most advanced) six-person chairlifts in North America, the Barker 6, which features ergonomic heated seats and weather-blocking bubbles to keep those stiff Maine breezes at bay.
The new Igloo lounge / Photo courtesy of Sunday River Resort
Insider Tip: The Igloo, a one-of-a-kind ice lounge, opened last year to rave reviews. The distinctive structure, built entirely of snow, has an indoor ice bar and outdoor seating by the fireplace. Bring your mittens.
Après Ski: Catch some rays and enjoy live music on the patio of the Shipyard Brew Haus, which offers some of Maine’s best local beers. Not to be outdone, the brilliantly named Foggy Goggle serves hot cocktails, plus award-winning nachos, burgers, wings, and a selection of salads to balance things out a bit.
Where to Stay: Nestled amid the forest canopy, the ski-in, ski-out Jordan Hotel is a mere stone’s throw from the Lollapalooza Trail. It offers studios, standard rooms and suites, plus a newly refurbished lobby area, with a heated pool and hot tub providing more splendid vistas.
Parking: Free parking is found close to all base lodges, and free shuttle service is available from local hotels as well.
The Paul Bunyan Room at Loon. / Photo courtesy of Loon Mountain Resort
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Loon
What’s New: Just two hours from Boston, Loon is one of the most accessible mountains around. And now, one of the snowiest: Improved snowmaking arrives this year with more than 100 new machines installed on the Loon Peak and North Peak trails. In all, nine trails will see new coverage, a huge win for early-season skiers. The Octagon Lodge patio has also been completely redesigned with a fresh outdoor space featuring a snow-melt surface that keeps the deck clear all winter long.
Insider Tip: Intermediate skiers will love Bear Claw, a winding gladed trail, while beginners should start out on the gentle slopes of Brookway. The South Peak’s Timbertown Quad, meanwhile, is just 1.5 miles away from Interstate 93; for quick access, park at the Escape Route lots.
Après Ski: The Paul Bunyan Room at the base of the mountain has a nice selection of local craft beers. In the nearby town of Lincoln, chow down on firecracker nachos, chicken and waffles, or mac ’n’ cheese with Korean barbecue pork at the One Love Brewery.
Where to Stay: The InnSeason Resorts Pollard Brook is located just a mile from the mountain and is New Hampshire’s only five-star condominium resort, offering 133 one- to three-bedroom suites with kitchens and whirlpool baths. This year, the hotel has upgraded some on-site amenities, including an expanded indoor pool area and new hot tubs.
Parking: Loon offers six on-site lots, all free and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There’s also a free shuttle service from select local hotels. As an added bonus for EV drivers, Loon features the most EV charging stations among New Hampshire’s ski resorts.
Omni Mount Washington Resort. / Courtesy
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Bretton Woods
What’s New: The conditions at New Hampshire’s largest resort have never been better, as it was voted #1 for grooming in the East by the readers of Ski Magazine for 2024. With 10 lifts, including four high-speed quads and an eight-passenger gondola servicing 63 trails, Bretton Woods has an impressive lift capacity of 14,000 skiers per hour. Plus, it now has snowmaking capabilities on 92 percent of its trails.
Insider Tip: Take at least one ride down Two Miles Home: One of the longest and most scenic trails in New England, it meanders down the hill from the top of Mount Rosebrook. If that’s not enough of a challenge, head to the backside Rosebrook Glades, where double diamonds and chances for big air abound. Just be sure to bring a partner!
Après Ski: The Rosebrook Lodge (reached via gondola) has a few dining options—if you’re looking for European-inspired fare like Bavarian pretzels and charcuterie boards, pick the Switchback Grille. Down in the base lodge, the Slopeside Restaurant & Pub is a cozy spot to recount the day’s adventure.
Where to Stay: The elegant Omni Mount Washington Resort is the most renowned property in the area, and for good reason. The resort offers amenities galore, from the 25,000-square-foot luxury spa and the stunning main dining room to the outdoor heated pool and stables that offer horseback and carriage rides. For a nightcap, drop by the Cave, once a speakeasy lounge, for craft cocktails.
Parking: For day skiers, there’s free parking behind the Slopeside restaurant. Overnight guests can take the free shuttle to the mountain.
Family fun at Wachusett. / Photo courtesy of Wachusett Mountain Ski Area
MASSACHUSETTS
Wachusett
What’s New: Ideal for day trips or weekend visits, Wachusett in Princeton has expanded its snowmaking capabilities this year with 13 brand-new snow guns around the base area. Other upgrades at the base include added terrain in the kids’ ski-school area and additional lockers. If you’re looking for some fun after dark, there are 22 trails open for night skiing, including the terrain park.
Insider Tip: Passholders can now track their days and runs with the Wachusett App.
Après Ski: At the 1761 Old Mill, you’ll find tempting dishes and drinks in a charming atmosphere. Or swing by the Barn, located in nearby Princeton, which serves a little bit of everything, from sticky Korean wings and 12-ounce steaks to warming chickpea-coconut-curry bowls and local Wachusett beers.
Where to Stay: If you’re not heading back to Boston the same day, the Howarth House Bed and Breakfast in Fitchburg is cozy, well appointed, and serves a delightful farm-fresh breakfast—everything you want from a B & B.
Parking: Free parking is available at the perimeter lots. VIP parking is also available for a fee.
First published in the print edition of Boston magazine’s November 2024 with the headline, “Powder to the People.”
