As winter blankets the East Coast in snow, there's an undeniable call to the mountains—a call to ski down powdery slopes, lift spirits with some après-ski festivities, and explore surrounding trails and historic villages that epitomize New England charm.
This is what East Coast skiing is all about—the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, where every turn reveals a story waiting to unfold. But most important, every trip is an escape from the big cities.
From the fabled peaks of Stowe, Vermont to the family-friendly slopes of Mount Sunapee, New Hampshire, and beyond, each of these top picks for East Coast resorts provides the backdrop for a unique and memorable East Coast winter adventure.
Stowe: The Peak of Vermont Skiing
Nestled at the base of Vermont's highest peak, Stowe Mountain Resort stands as a paragon of East Coast skiing. With its first lift-served runs dating back to 1937, the nation’s first Ski Patrol, and as the birthplace of the 10th Mountain Division, Stowe's heritage is steeped in history.
What makes Stowe:
- Proximity: Just 3.5 hours from Boston and 5 hours from NYC.
- Terrain: Spread over two mountains, Stowe offers 485 skiable acres, 116 trails, one terrain park, and boasts the most mile-long lifts on the East Coast.
- Vertical: A respectable 2,360 feet—among the largest in New England.
- Unique Activities: Beyond skiing, enjoy scenic Gondola Skyride, the Cross Country Center, ice skating, and of course, the Spa at Spruce Peak.
- Après-Ski: Unwind at popular spots like Whistle Pig Pavilion, The Den at Mansfield Base Lodge, and the Spruce Camp Bar.
Be inspired by all-things Stowe. Check out the Stowe blog, Mansfield Moments: From the Peak of Vermont.
Mount Snow: A Winter Wonderland in Vermont
Mount Snow stands as a beacon of winter sports in Southern Vermont, with trails for all levels, state-of-the-art snowmaking, breathtaking views of the Green Mountains, and a diverse range of activities that cater to families and snow enthusiasts of every level.
Why we love Mount Snow:
- Proximity: Conveniently located in West Dover, Vermont, Mount Snow is easily accessible from major cities.
- Beginner-Friendly: The resort features dedicated and supportive learning areas, such as the Discovery Center.
- Terrain: 600 acres of skiable terrain, 85 trails, and Carinthia Parks—the East's largest fully-dedicated terrain park.
- Dining: A variety of options include cozy mountain lodges like The Bullwheel, to upscale restaurants, like Iron Loft, ensuring you can refuel in style.
- Après-Ski: Swap slope stories at the legendary Snow Barn or Cuzzins Bar & Grill, with live music on Saturdays.
- Family Fun: Off-slope activities include tubing, while a full calendar of events provide activities all season long.
To make the most of your trip to Mount Snow check in for additional ideas on planning.
Okemo: A Ludlow, Vermont Classic
Okemo is the epitome of East Coast skiing convenience and quality. Renowned for slope-side lodging and exceptional snowmaking, Okemo is where relaxation and adventure merge for a perfect getaway. So, relax and unwind because it’s Okemo time.
A few reasons to visit Okemo:
- Proximity: Driving distance from most major East Coast cities. Just a 2-hour drive from Albany, Hartford Springfield's Bradley, and Manchester airports.
- Trails and Terrain: Over 100 trails and the highest vertical drop in southern Vermont.
- Terrain Parks: Home to Vermont's best superpipe and four terrain parks.
- Beyond Skiing: Enjoy the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster or explore Vermont’s winter woods by fatbike.
- Après-Ski: Indulge in Après Afternoons at Jackson Gore or at one of the many top Okemo restaurants such as 43 North or The Bull Restaurant and Bar.
First time to Okemo? Prepare for your visit! First time skiing or snowboarding? Check out our Our Top Ten Beginner Tips!
Hunter Mountain: Big Mountain for the Big Apple
Hunter Mountain Ski Resort, a short drive northwest of NYC—2 hours, depending on traffic—is a destination for skiers and riders of all levels. Known for its extensive snowmaking, Hunter Mountain offers four faces of diverse terrain.
Highlights of Hunter:
- Easy Access: Over 2 hours from NYC by car, and reachable by train to Hudson, NY.
- Beginner-Friendly: Home to State of the Art Learning Center, for new skiers and snowboarders.
- Diverse Terrain: From gentle learning areas to challenging steeps, Hunter features 1,600 feet of vertical over four separate mountain faces.
- Scenery: At 3,200ft above sea level, the summit at Hunter offers incredible, panoramic views that can be seen as far as Massachusetts' Berkshires and Vermont’s Green Mountains.
- Snowmaking: Renowned for its world-class snowmaking capabilities with new upgrades coming in Winter '25 that will unlock more mountain terrain.
- Off-Slope Fun: In addition to local winery tours, check out bubly Snow Tubing Park, annual traditions such as the legendary Hunter New Year's Bash and many delicious dining and après options including The Marketplace and The Overlook.
Need some help with your East Coast weekend ski trip packing list? Check out our 2023/24 Winter Gear Guide!
Mount Sunapee Ski Resort: A Family Tradition in New Hampshire
Mount Sunapee celebrates family skiing traditions in the heart of Southern New Hampshire. It’s a place where there’s fun for every family member, from beginner slopes to freestyle parks.
Things to know about Mount Sunapee:
- Location: 20 minutes off Interstate 89—the closest big mountain to Boston.
- Beginner-friendly: Dedicated South Peak Learning Area, for beginners.
- Trail Diversity: 66 trails over 230 acres make for plenty of room for exploration. This includes 4 terrain parks, from small progression features to large, expert- level hits.
- Views: Stunning vistas from the summit at 2,743 feet.
- Dining: Grab a bite and some picturesque views at one of Sunapee’s mountain restaurants.
- Family Fun: Host to the annual Mount Sunapee Slush Cup and the Sunapee New Year's Bash.
Want to create family traditions you'll pass down for generations to come? Then don’t miss the Mount Sunapee For Families planning guide!
Get Ready for Your Winter Getaway
Whether you're escaping from New York City, Boston, or D.C., or venturing from further afield, these East Coast destinations are more than just a weekend getaway—they are a winter tradition.
Each location provides a playground for all ages, and a chance to make memories that last a lifetime. So, gear up, set your sights on the peaks, and get away for the ultimate East Coast winter adventure.
