Stepping onto the slopes can be incredibly intimidating for beginner skiers, so finding the right resort can make all the difference. However, with over 100 ski areas across New England and New York, deciding exactly where to go to sharpen your skills can be tricky.
Good ski resorts for beginners include access to lessons, well-groomed trails, a variety of gentle terrain and a friendly atmosphere to ease into the sport without feeling overwhelmed.
Practicing at a less-crowded ski resort will make it easier to navigate the slopes without constantly dodging other skiers. It’s also helpful when resorts have lift ticket options like half-day passes if you’re not ready to ski all day, or discounted areas, so you’re not paying for terrain you don’t have the skills to use.
Finally, you should also consider the quality and availability of beginner-friendly amenities like magic carpets and designated learning areas. Learning to ski can be challenging enough, so you don’t want to worry about managing a rope tow or T-bar lift on top of it.
Keeping these criteria in mind, these Northeast ski resorts stand out for creating an approachable environment for new skiers.
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Charlemont, Mass.
This resort, surrounded by state forests and the Deerfield River, is known for minimal crowds and long green runs (beginner trails), perfect for practicing turns. Plus, most beginner trails are separate from advanced terrain, so there’s no need to worry about faster skiers passing by. For those not ready for a full day on the slopes, four-hour tickets are available Monday through Friday for just $35. Berkshire East also has a learn-to-turn ski package, which includes a lower mountain lift ticket, ski or snowboard rental, and a one-hour first-time group lesson, starting at just $70 if you choose the night option.
Bromley Mountain
Peru, Vt.
Head to southern Vermont for a mix of gentle green and blue runs that are ideal for beginners. This resort offers half-day lift tickets starting at $94, making it an excellent option for those not ready to spend the whole day on the slopes. First-timer lesson packages ($229) include lift tickets, rentals, and an introduction to skiing or snowboarding. In addition to great skiing, Bromley’s location near Manchester makes it easy to find cozy accommodations and the perfect apres-ski spot.
Greek Peak
Cortland, N.Y.
The instructors at this resort in the Finger Lakes region use an innovative terrain-based learning model, which uses special snow features to naturally regulate speed and body position, helping to alleviate the anxieties of first-time skiers. The Intro2Snow package provides all-day access to the resort’s learning center, rental equipment and lift tickets for just $99. For skiers looking to practice, the beginner area pass grants access to gentle slopes for just $58. You can also ski at night for $68; on Tuesdays, find all-day lift tickets for $48. Plus, kids under 6 always ski for free. As a bonus, Greek Peak is just 40 minutes outside Ithaca, a lively college town with cultural attractions and superb dining, which means you can plan a comprehensive getaway that combines skiing with off-slope activities.
Pats Peak
Henniker, N.H.
With beautiful views of Mount Monadnock and the Worcester Hills, this small, approachable resort has a relaxed environment where new skiers can build their skills without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds. The resort’s Passport Program ($669) for first-time skiers includes lessons over four days and, upon completion, a free season pass and set of skis. Pats Peak also offers pay-one-price (POP) packages for rentals, skiing and group lesson tips starting at $79 (only available on Saturday nights), along with the option for discounted lift tickets depending on the area of the mountain you want to explore.
Saskadena Six
South Pomfret, Vt.
Located near the New Hampshire border in eastern Vermont, Saskadena Six is a solid option for beginners looking for a stress-free day on the slopes. The resort features a well-maintained learning area perfect for first-time skiers, and you can access it for just $35. Skiers can also book the Unlimited Snow Sports Package, which includes unlimited access to Saskadena Six Ski Area, daily breakfast and two nights at the Woodstock Inn, located in historic Woodstock that, in winter, looks like a real-life Christmas village with plenty of shopping and apres-ski dining options.
Ski Butternut
Great Barrington, Mass.
For a beginner-friendly experience with approachable instructors and well-groomed trails, hit this resort located in one of the larger towns in the Berkshires. You’ll have multiple magic carpets, a beginner chairlift and a long green trail perfect for practicing your turns. The adult beginner package ($160) includes a beginner lift ticket, equipment rental and a group lesson for first-time or beginner skiers. Ski Butternut also offers some of the most affordable lift tickets in the region, with prices as low as $25 on Fridays and $40 on weekdays. The resort’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby museums, spas and dining for a well-rounded getaway that includes activities beyond skiing.
Check out AAA member deals at ski resorts nationwide.
Do you know of any other great beginner ski resorts? Is your favorite already on the list? Tell us in the comments.
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