When it comes to winter getaways in the Northeast, few experiences rival the thrill of skiing or riding amidst the tranquil mountain ranges and charming ski towns. From the deep powder days at Stowe to the breathtaking vistas of Wildcat, our list of 8 destinations in the Northeast promise to whisk you away to a world of adventure.
With resorts scattered across New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire, these winter havens are conveniently located within driving distance of major cities like New York and Boston, making them ideal for a weekend escape. Whether you're drawn to the charming villages, outdoor activities, or exceptional dining options, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Our top recommendations for a weekend in the Northeast are Attitash, Wildcat, Okemo, Stowe, Hunter, Mount Snow, Mount Sunapee, and Crotched. These resorts not only offer outstanding skiing and riding experiences but also boast quaint lodging and accommodations choices, world-class restaurants, and boutique shopping — all set against the enchanting backdrop of a New England winter for plentiful outdoor fun.
Discover Unforgettable Winter Escapes in the Northeast
With vertical drops of over 2,000 feet and plenty of snow, you’ll quickly realize you don’t have to go far for adventure in the Northeast. These New England ski resorts offer world-class snowmaking, high-speed chair lifts, glade skiing and riding, and expansive terrain parks. Couple this with the comfortable amenities of a well-equipped ski lodge, and you’re ready to escape it all.
The excellent skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports opportunities, along with picturesque scenery, quaint villages, and family-friendly amenities make these the top destinations in Vermont, New Hampshire and New York. Visitors seeking a memorable and adventurous getaway will want to plan a visit this winter.
Vermont Weekend Getaways
The Green Mountains of Vermont have long been an epicenter for skiers and riders of all skill levels. Some of the earliest snowboard competitions ever took place at ski and ride resorts in Vermont.
Today, Vermont resorts attract a wide variety of people, from professional ski racers to families on weekend getaways. A weekend trip to Vermont and the towns of Stowe, Okemo, and Mount Snow are wonderful and welcoming places to experience the charm and beauty of New England in all its seasonal splendor, each boasting world-class ski resorts with varied terrain suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, All snow lover's seeking thrilling runs, well-groomed trails, and breathtaking mountain views will want to put these on their list of must visit ski towns in the Northeast.
Stowe
With 485 skiable acres on 116 trails spread across two mountains, Mount Mansfield (Vermont's highest peak) and Spruce Peak, Stowe is one of the largest ski areas in the Northeast. It’s a great resort for families and skiers & snowboarders of all abilities because it features a good balance of beginner, intermediate, and expert trails.
When you need a break from downhill adventures, find serenity amongst the trees at the Cross Country Center or head over to the Village at Spruce Peak for shopping, fine dining, and more. Stowe's Cross Country Center features 45 km of groomed trails and 30 km of backcountry terrain - both of which are great for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Okemo
Within close proximity to coastal New England, Okemo is one of the premier ski areas in Vermont. The resort boasts an incredible 2,200-foot vertical drop that expands into 632 skiable and rideable acres.
Okemo has snowmaking on 98% of the mountain to ensure the best conditions possible all season long, with all of the terrain readily accessible by 20 different lifts. The resort also has four amazing terrain parks to perfect your freestyle skills.
Mount Snow
Mount Snow is a great all-around ski area with plenty of options for beginners and more advanced skiers, including plenty of intermediate terrain, plus steep runs and glades. There are over 100 acres of terrain parks here as well at Carinthia Parks, which is a dedicated mountain face packed with rails, jumps, and other big features. Mount Snow is known for its renowned snowmaking, with coverage on 83% of the mountain.
The resort offers 19 chair lifts to shuttle guests up the mountain, including two six-passenger high speed chairs and three high-speed quads. These lifts can move thousands of people per hour to speed up the lift lines and keep things rolling.
New Hampshire Weekend Getaways
The White Mountains are widely considered some of the most beautiful in the entire United States and renowned for their heavy and reliable snowfall, attributed to their location in the northeast snowbelt. In the shadow of Mt. Washington, New Hampshire ski areas offer big mountain skiing and riding within a reasonable drive from both New York and Boston. These New Hampshire resorts are a great destination for winter sports and outdoor enthusiasts seeking abundant snow and picturesque landscapes. Here you'll find lotos of winter winter activities, including: Night skiing, Snow tubing, Snowshoeing, Winter events, and Après-ski.
Attitash
Attitash consistently ranks as one of the best all-around ski and ride resorts in the Northeast, thanks to 120 inches of annual snowfall, 68 trails, and varied terrain from steep and narrow to wide open groomers.
A weekend trip here is sure to deliver, and the new Mountaineer high-speed quad whisks skiers and riders to the summit of Attitash to experience classic New England terrain. Arcade Terrain Parks also serve up adrenaline for skiers and riders of all ability levels.
Wildcat
Wildcat offers skiers and riders big mountain terrain, seemingly never-ending runs, and jaw-dropping views of Mt. Washington. With a massive 2,100-foot vertical drop, your legs will feel it after a weekend on the slopes here. Wildcat is truly one of New Hampshire's hidden gems for skiing and riding.
Polecat is one of the main highlights here, and this 2.75-mile long run is the longest beginner trail in all of New Hampshire. More advanced skiers and riders will enjoy the extensive glades and natural terrain trails that bounce through the White Mountain National Forest.
Mount Sunapee
Mount Sunapee has the unique honor of being operated within a New Hampshire State Park, and this tranquil setting makes for the perfect weekend getaway for parents and kids alike. You won’t be short on lovely views and good times here. Mount Sunapee is a nature lovers dream, set against picturesque Lake Sunapee and surrounded by pristine beauty, the opportunities to explore the nearby forests and mountains abound.
It's a skiers delight as well. The resort has an impressive 1,500-foot vertical drop, making it the highest ski area in Southern New Hampshire. On top of that, skiers and riders can take advantage of 97% snowmaking coverage, tree skiing, and long trails that stretch over 2 miles in total.
Crotched
Crotched has a ton of modern amenities that make for a very memorable weekend getaway. Between 100% snowmaking coverage and a high-speed quad chair lift, the resort offers everyone excellent ski and ride experiences all season long.
Night skiing is also an option on the entire mountain, so you and the family can stay on the slopes after dark and get in more turns than most other resorts in the Northeast. If you head here right after work on a Friday, the lights will be on, and the slopes still ready for action!
New York Weekend Getaways
The Empire State may be home to the city that never sleeps, but right out the door is the perfect retreat into the hear of the Catskills. For loads of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and a variety of local shops, boutiques, and restaurants we recommend a visit to Hunter Mountain for an amazing getaway from the nearby cities of New York City, Albany, Hartford, and the greater Hudson Valley region. Whether you're a nature lover, art enthusiast, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Hunter has something to offer everyone and is great fun for the entire family.
Hunter Mountain is one of the premier ski destinations in the northeastern United States with a variety of terrain catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. You'll also find a unique chance to participate in the NASTAR ski racing program that allows skiers and riders to compete with race times from the U.S. Ski Team on a professional slalom course. There is also a Bubly snow tubing park with Bubly glow parties on specific dates throughout the season featuring disco lights, DJs and swag.
Plan the Perfect Family-Friendly Weekend
Weekend getaways in the Northeast offer fresh air, quality time, and a taste of historic New England. With ski racing, snow tubing, and park riding all easily available, the Northeast has activity options for the entire family.
Some kid-friendly activities to explore include snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Most resorts have a dedicated kids' ski and ride zone to practice, and kids' shopping is also available in some lodging areas.
If you’re staying for the weekend at one of the amazing lodges or accommodations available at the resorts mentioned here, remember to enjoy the pool or hot tub after a long day on the slopes.