With 11 out of 20 of the highest vertical drops in New England, Vermont knows a thing or two about ski resorts. And Vermonters are a tight-knit bunch so, naturally, family ski destinations and Vermont kind of go hand in hand. From beginner mountains, skiing camps, and classes to indoor fun parks, food, and lessons, the Green Mountain State has got the right slope for you. Plus, just because you are on the mountain doesn’t mean you have to ski—try snowboard, tubing, snowshoeing, and more. So let’s barrel down the hill into the 10 best ski destinations for families in Vermont.
Okemo Mountain experienced 600,000 skier visits in 2009 and Parents Magazine rated it the “Top U.S. Family Snow Resorts,” so there are plenty of reasons to get to this ski destination. Racking up accolades for snow quality, terrain parks, family programs, resort dining, and friendly service, Okemo is one stop you don’t want to miss.
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With 78 trails and over a 2,600-foot vertical drop, this resort offers award-winning children's ski and snowboard programs for all ages. Plus, the "Snow Sports University" (SSU) connects you and your family to the mountains through safety, fun, and learning. And Smuggs offers experienced guides to help you develop the skills and confidence to meet your goals on the mountain.
Sugarbush Resort is located in the Mad River Valley of Vermont and is one of the largest ski resorts in New England. And, with an annual snowfall of just over 21 feet, 111 trails, and a top elevation of over 4,000 feet, this spot has something for everyone. Plus, with an on-site restaurant and pub and a Kids Adventure Zone, what is not to love?
Jay Peak offers a vertical drop of 2,153 feet, which is the fifth largest in Vermont. Plus, with 78 trails, nine lifts, four terrain parks, and just under 400 skiable acres, Jay Peak offers affordable skiing and lots of amenities. In addition to great skiing, the family will enjoy a year-round indoor water park, ice arena, brand new rec center, championship golf course, amphitheater, onsite dining, and more.
Bromley is a family-friendly Vermont ski resort featuring tons of activities for kids, a terrain park, and 14 beginner trails. Plus, the centralized base boasts slope-side lodging, and everyone loves the southern exposure, making it one of the warmer mountains on our list. You will also find an on-site restaurant and a festive atmosphere, featuring an array of events.
Suicide Six is home to the longest-running ski race in North America: The Fisk Trophy Race. The event was first held in 1937 and is essentially a rite of passage for eastern ski racers. But with its 23 trails and over 100 miles of skiable terrain, Suicide Six is also a wonderful place to bring the whole family for a ski vacation. Trails are rated 30 percent beginner and 40 percent intermediate, so there’s a safe trail for skiers of all ages and abilities.
Stratton Mountain is one of larger ski resorts in New England and offers 97 trails, more than 100 acres of glades, more than 600 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain, and the self-promoted “fastest fleet of lifts in the East.” Plus, don’t miss convenient lodging, a slope-side village, a training and fitness center, a full-service spa, and a full slate of winter and summer events and activities.
Killington is largest ski area in the eastern U.S., and it has the most significant vertical drop in New England at 3,050 feet. With its six peaks, 1,509 skiable acres, and a summit of 4,241 feet, this mountain is aptly named, “The Beast,” and the resort offers lodging, dining, a full-service spa, and many beginner packages so why not bring the family?
Magic Mountain is located on Glebe Mountain and features a 1,500-foot vertical drop and a summit of 2,850 feet. As one of the smaller mountains on our list, Magic still has a lot going for it: a convenient, centralized lift system and lodge, a relaxed vibe and strong community spirit, and no crowds on slopes or at lifts, making it an excellent mountain for kids and beginners.
Pico Mountain was established in 1937, and it was one of the first commercial ski resorts in the Green Mountain State. With a peak elevation of just under 4,000 and only under 60 skiable trails, Pico is a smaller-sized ski area with just 19 miles of trail. But, with on-site lodging and a menu of classes and camps, there won’t be a single member of your family not racing down the mountain by day’s end.
