Peak Ski Spots in the Northeast

It’s easy to lose sight of how sweet it is to live in the Northeast.

Our fall foliage is legendary, we’re blessed with awesome beaches and, around this time of year, the skiers and snowboarders among us will soon shred some gnar on several nearby mountains.

Whether you’ve been hitting the slopes since you could walk or you’ve finally decided to enjoy the region’s winter-sports pedigree, here are a few of the best ski resorts to explore this winter.

Jay Peak, Jay, Vt.

Skiers and snowboarders in search of fresh powder can look to Jay Peak for plenty of the natural variety. The resort received nearly 500 inches of snow during the 2016-17 ski season, and regularly sees the most snow of anywhere in the Northeast. Guests can choose from about six dozen trails of varying difficulty. The Jay Peak Pump House indoor waterpark is a good option for families that need a break from the cold, with thrilling slides, a surfing simulator and other attractions. The resort has plans to build an entertainment center with a movie theater, arcade and ropes course. It’s expected to open during the 2017-18 ski season.

Killington Resort, Killington, Vt.

Also known as the Beast of the East, Killington offers six peaks, 73 miles of trails and terrain parks with challenges like an 18-foot halfpipe. The resort also offers winter activities like scenic gondola rides to Killington Peak, a 4,800-foot-long mountain coaster and a tubing park.

Loon Mountain, Lincoln, N.H.

Loon Mountain has trails and a terrain park for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, while the adjacent Loon Mountain Adventure Center offers ice skating, indoor climbing, snowshoe tours and a zip line.

Stowe Mountain Resort, Stowe, Vt.

Stowe’s two mountains include Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest. Along with dozens of trails, guests can test their skills in a few terrain parks or tackle several cross-country and snowshoeing routes. The community has many restaurants for apres-ski dining, and luxury-minded visitors can choose from three AAA Four Diamond Rated hotels.

Whiteface Mountain Ski Area, Wilmington, N.Y.

Bring out your inner Olympian by tackling New York’s fifth tallest mountain, which hosted alpine skiing events during the 1980 Olympic Winter Games. Newcomers can take lessons at an on-site ski and snowboard school, while seasoned skiers and snowboarders can tackle the Northeast’s greatest continuous vertical drop. Complement your time on the mountain with a bobsled ride or a trip to an Olympic museum in nearby Lake Placid.