Choices are what Vermont seems to be all about. Whether you’ve been on the slopes since before you could ride a bike or are learning about it for the first time there are a wealth of options for you to experience. Top that with an average snowfall that ranges from 200 – 340 inches of snow, you have a fantastic recipe for a great ski vacation. Almost ironic to consider 340 inches of snow to be average… Nevertheless, you will find Vermont to be a beautiful place to learn and improve your ski or board skills. And when you’re having an off moment, meaning you’re on your bottom for the umpteenth time that day, you can claim you’re only stopping to enjoy the spectacular view.
With an average snowfall of 355 inches in a year, Jay Peak definitely has something worth bragging about. It’s a great place to learn how to ski considering it has some pretty, no pun intended, easy blue and green runs. Don’t let that scare you off if you’re a seasoned pro though. There are acres of fantastic runs geared especially for those that really know what they’re doing. It’s good to remember though that the primary focus of Jay Peak is skiing. And thus, the nightlife includes great places to eat and that’s about it – no crazy discos here. But really, if you’re aim is perfecting your skills with beautiful scenery all around you, Jay Peak is exactly what you’re looking for.
Stratton’s claim to fame is that it is one of the very first, if not the first, place to discover the sport of snowboarding. And thus, you’ll find Stratton host to the U.S. Open competitions. You’ll also find the runs to be uber wide and groomed for a boarder’s dream come true. For those not ready to enter the U.S. competitions, you’ll be happy to know that Stratton has great snowboarding schools and areas designated for learning this skill.
Killington is proud to be one of Vermont’s largest ski areas, largely due to the fact that it has 200 runs and seven peaks that are all worth experiencing. The pros, or those who claim that they are, head over to the Canyon and Bear Mountain. Those that aren’t quite ready for the intense challenge of those peaks love Snowdon and for the beginners that don’t want the pressure of skiing too slow for other mountain goers can fully enjoy Snowshed. The nightlife is quite fantastic so if you feel like celebrating a great day on the slopes you’ll have lots of choices at your fingertips – close to five miles to be exact. Take off the snowshoes or ski boots and put on your evening gear. Explore the many restaurants, pubs and clubs and see why Killington is living up to its name as having a legendary nightlife.
With more than fifty years under its belt, Mount Snow has perfected the art of a family getaway. This amazing ski location is quickly becoming a favorite for families for many reasons. First up, Mount Snow has fantastic ski and board schools for tikes three years old and up. The teenagers traveling with you will love the Beartrap run where music gets pumped out to give them that extra bit of juice to make it down. Whether you want to perfect your mogul runs, brush up on your snowboarding skills or simply enjoy a nice day on the slopes, Mount Snow’s 700 acres and 145 trails will give you lots to explore. If you need a break from the skiing you can still enjoy the mountain on tubes or do a little sightseeing with the snowmobiles.