Did you know that Boston is within easy reach of over 60 New England ski areas including Massachusetts slopes less than an hour from the city?
Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon visit to a nearby family friendly slope less than an hour from the city or a big ski weekend at a top resort in Vermont or New Hampshire, you'll find a huge assortment of winter sports: Alpine skiing, Nordic cross-country skiing, snowboarding and freestyling, snow tubing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
Some of New England's biggest ski resorts even offer heated pools, ziplines, dog sledding, and sleigh rides.
Our guide includes details about 60+ New England ski areas in the Northeast offer, as well as New England ski resort vacation packages and deals, find out about amenities such as heated pools, night skiing, and ziplines.
We also provide drive time and distance from Boston.
The largest New England ski resorts offer slope-side lodging and vacation packages and deals.
Compare those with rates and ski packages at nearby hotels and condos to find the best ski deals, plus amenities such as outdoor heated pools, night skiing, and even zip lines.
Our New England Ski Guide includes:
- Massachusetts Ski Areas (10 choices; less than an hour to 3 hours from Boston)
- New Hampshire Ski Areas (18 choices; 1 - 4.5 hours from Boston)
- Vermont Ski Areas (15 resorts; 2.5 - 4 hours from Boston)
- Maine Ski Areas (14 ski areas and resorts, 2.5 - 6.5 hours from Boston)
- Connecticut & Rhode Island (5 ski areas, 1.5 - 3 hours from Boston)
Mileage estimates use Boston Common as the starting point.
Drive time estimates are based on Google maps, rounded up to include a bathroom stop or two.
Top photo: Mount Snow ski area - Photo credit: Jessica Shi; all photos by Jessica Shi in this article are copyright (c) Jessica Shi, and used by permission
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Massachusetts Ski Areas
Ski Areas Closest to Boston
These areas are an easy drive from the city. Go for the afternoon or the day - or stay overnight. You'll find mostly low key, relaxing family friendly places with skiing and snowboarding, terrain parks, snow tubing, cross country trails, and snow shoeing. Some have snow making capabilities and even night skiing, but many do not.
Ski Bradford, Haverhill, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 50 minutes, 35 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 248 foot vertical drop, 12 trails, 48 skiable acres, 8 lifts, uphill capacity of 9,600 skiers per hour; 100% snowmaking; terrain park
Trail difficulty: 17% novice, 33% intermediate, 50% advanced
More to love: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, full-service snack bar, family-friendly vibe
Fun fact: Even though Ski Bradford is less than an hour north of Boston, it has a different micro climate - so when the weather in Boston is rainy and 38°, Ski Bradford may have perfect ski conditions with snow and 28°.
What's special: Affordable prices, close to Boston, fun terrain park
Where to stay: Hotels near Ski Bradford
More Information: 1-978-373-0071; www.skibradford.com
Nashoba Valley Ski Area, Westford, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 45 minutes, 25 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing
What you'll find: 240 foot vertical drop, 17 trails, 53 skiable acres, 9 lifts, 2 terrain parks, 100% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 18% novice, 41% intermediate, 41% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, racing, popular school vacation programs, live music in the lodge several nights each week, friendly staff
What's special: Close to Boston, low key, excellent instructors
Where to stay: Hotels near Nashoba Valley
More Information: 1-978-692-3033; Nashoba Valley website
Blue Hills Ski Area, Canton, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: Depends on where in Boston you're coming from, and of course, traffic conditions; from Downtown Boston on Rt 93S to Rt 128W, it's about 12 miles and 15-30 minutes driving time.
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 309 foot vertical drop, 12 trails, 60 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 90% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 13% novice, 25% intermediate, 62% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Closest skiing area in the Boston metro area; affordably priced; year-round recreational area for hikers and nature lovers
Where to stay: Although mostly Boston locals ski here, affordable hotels in nearby Dedham make a great base for family vacations if you want to spend a couple of days on the slope, pop into the city for a couple of occasions, and perhaps catch up with Boston-area family and friends.
More Information: 1-781-828-5070; Blue Hills website
Central Massachusetts Ski Areas
Just a little farther from Boston . . . and generally a little colder, with more snow. Both areas make easy day trips from Boston, or stay overnight for a weekend getaway.
Ski Ward Hill, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 50 minutes, 45 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing
What you'll find: 220 foot vertical drop, 9 trails, 4 lifts, 45 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain, 100% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 30% intermediate, 40% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, 50% Active Duty Military discount, racing teams for all ages
What's special: The TubaSlide!
Where to stay: Hotels near Ski Ward Hill
More Information: 1-508-845-1797; Ski Ward Hill website; photo courtesy of Ski Ward Hill
Wachusett Mountain Ski Area, Princeton, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 1 1/4 hour, 64 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, NASTAR
What you'll find: 1,000 foot vertical drop, 25 trails, 110 skiable acres, 8 lifts (capacity of 9,200 skiers per hour), 100% snowmaking, longest trail 1 1/2 miles, highest mountain in Massachusetts east of the Connecticut River
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, restaurant, cafeteria, coffee shop, and lounge in the base lodge
What's special: Weekend "Ski Train" service from Boston (From early December through March, take the 8:35am FItchburg Commuter Rail from North Station to Fitchburg, and Wachusett Mountain will pick you up at the station and take you to the mountain, plus bring you back to the station in late afternoon).
Something else special about Wachusett: you can see the Boston skyline from the summit.
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-978-464-2300; Wachusett website; photo courtesy of Wachusett Mountain Ski Area
More photos of Wachusett Mountain
Western Massachusetts Ski Areas
Best for weekend trips - but you can reach these areas and resorts and then head back to Boston in a day.
Berkshire East Mountain Resort, Charlemont, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 138 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, racing
What you'll find: 1,180 foot vertical drop, 47 trails, 400 skiable acres, 6 lifts (capacity of 6,200 skiers per hour), 100% snowmaking, 2 1/2 mile longest run
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 35% intermediate, 35% advanced
More: Racing, 3 terrain parks, childcare program, zipline canopy tours and hiking in summer - New England's largest zip destination
What's special: Green skiing: this family-run ski resort's huge wind turbine produces 100% of its power, making it the only ski resort in the world to meet all of its electricity needs with onsite renewables
Where to stay: Hotels in North Adams, near the Berkshire East Ski Area
More Information: 1-413-339-6617; Berkshire East website; photo courtesy of Berkshire East Ski Area
Blandford Ski Area, Blandford Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 2 hours, 107 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 465 foot vertical drop, 22 trails, 130 Skiable acres, 4 lifts, 80% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 40% novice, 40% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Blandford Ski Area has recently been purchased by Ski Butternut, and extensive improvements and upgrades are underway.
Where to stay: Hotels near the Blandford Ski Area
More Information: 1-413-848-2860; Blandford website; photo courtesy of Blandford Ski Area
Ski Butternut, Great Barrington, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 136 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing
What you'll find: 1,000 foot vertical drop, 22 trails, 110 Skiable acres, 10 lifts, 100% snowmaking, terrain park
Trail difficulty: 20% novice, 60% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Special rates for police, firefighters, EMS, military, college students, scout troops - plus 5th graders ski free!
Where to stay: Hotels near Ski Butternut
More Information: 1-413-528-2000; Ski Butternut website; photo courtesy of Ski Butternut, photographer Matt Sawyer
Bousquet Ski Area, Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 136 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing
What you'll find: 750 foot vertical drop, 23 trails, 200 skiable acres, 5 lifts, 3 terrain parks, 85% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 34% novice, 33% intermediate, 33% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Snowsports School, affordable rates
Where to stay: Hotels near Bousquet Ski Area
More Information: 1-413-442-8316; Bousquet website
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, Hancock, Massachusetts
Time and distance from Boston: 2 3/4 hours, 152 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 1,150 foot vertical drop, 45 trails, 170 skiable acres, 9 lifts, 96% snowmaking, longest run 2 miles
Trail difficulty: 22% novice, 45% intermediate, 25% advanced, 8% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, 3 terrain parks
What's special: Southern New England's largest full-service ski resort, the only Mountain Coaster in the Northeast (3,600 feet of twisting fun through the woods!), lots of lodging and dining options; school winter vacation week ski camp
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-413-738-5500; Jiminy Peak website
Find even more Massachusetts ski areas near Boston, including small local slopes and tracks
New Hampshire Ski Areas
Southern New Hampshire
Good for day or weekend trips.
Crotched Mountain Ski Area, Bennington, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 hours, 77 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, NASTAR
What you'll find: 875 foot vertical drop, 23 trails, 75 skiable acres, 7 lifts, 100% snowmaking.
Trail difficulty: 28% novice, 50% intermediate, 22% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, equipment rentals, college student discounts
What's special: "Midnight Madness" night skiing until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights during January and February, with slopeside bonfires and concerts - 100% lighted slopes and terrain parks, and discounts for college students
Where to stay: Hotels near Crotched Mountain Ski Area
More Information: 1-603-588-3668; Crotched Mountain website
Pats Peak Ski Area, Henniker, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 1 1/2 hours, 82 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing (weekends and holidays), snowbiking (rentals available), snowshoeing along a marked "discovery" trail
What you'll find: 710 foot vertical drop, 22 trails and slopes, 7 gladed areas, 72 skiable acres, 10 lifts, 3 terrain parks, 100% snowmaking, 1.5 miles longest run
Trail difficulty: 50% novice, 18% intermediate, 14% advanced, 18% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, equipment rentals, free WiFi in lodges, 3 separate beginner areas with their own lifts, some of the longest and steepest pitches in Southern New Hampshire. Well-regarded by many Bostonians as a family-oriented place with plenty of skiable spots for beginners, and by more expert skiers who like black-diamond trails and steep pitch.
What's special: "POP" (Pay One Price) program on Saturday nights gets you skiing, rental, lesson tips, tubing, and entertainment for a flat fee
Where to stay: Hotels near Pats Peak
More Information: 1-888-728-7732; Pats Peak website
Gateway Hills Snow Park
Time and distance from Boston: 1 hour, 47 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 40 foot vertical drop, 2 slopes, 1 Magic Carpet lift, night lighting, affordable rates, 100% snow-making coverage
Terrain difficulty: 100% novice
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for all ages, equipment rentals. Relaxed environment; good place to learn. Located next to the Nashua Technology Park.
What's special: Gateway Hills is believed to be the first new ski area to open to the public in 40+ years; it is still developing, so look for more amenities in the future; it's also an affordable option for novices and anyone who enjoys gentle vs more challenging slopes and terrain. It's focus is on making snow sports fun and easy to learn.
Where to stay: Nashua Hotels
More information: 1-603-821-9168; Gateway Hills website
Tenney Mountain Ski & Snowboard Resort
Time and distance from Boston: 2 hours, 111 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snowtubing
What you'll find: 1,300 foot vertical drop, 2 lifts, 6 trails and slopes, night skiing on Wednesdays, night tubing Thurs-Saturday, affordable rates
Trail difficulty: Approx. 32% novice, 34% intermediate, 34% advanced, plus a 6-acre novice/intermediate slope
More: Ski school, equipment rentals; year-round bar and grill
What's special: Tenney Mountain Resort recently reopened after being closed for more than a decade - you'll see something new going on every time you visit!
Where to stay: Plymouth, NH hotels near Tenney Mountain
More information: 603-536-2241; Tenney Mountain Resort website
Mount Sunapee, Newbury, New HampshireTime and distance from Boston: 2 hours, 98 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, NASTAR racing
What you'll find: 1,510 foot vertical drop, 66 trails, 230 skiable acres, 11 lifts, 97% snowmaking.
Trail difficulty: 26% novice, 49% intermediate, 25% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, attractive discounts for college students and a variety of weekday savings deals and discounts for everyone.
What's special: Even though Mt Sunapee isn't in the White Mountains, you'll still find impressive slopes only 2 hours from Boston. If you're looking for the biggest slopes closest to the city, Mount Sunapee is where you'll find them - perfect for a day trip from Boston.
Where to stay: Mount Sunapee hotels and deals
More Information: 1-603-763-2356; Mount Sunapee website; photo courtesy of Mount Sunapee
Return to Top - New England Ski Areas
Gunstock Mountain Resort, Gilford, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 hours, 99 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, racing, cross country, snowshoeing, ziplines
What you'll find: 1,400 foot vertical drop, 55 trails, 227 skiable acres, 3 parks, 8 lifts, longest run 1.5 miles, 90% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 12% novice, 61% intermediate, 27% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults; 12 acre terrain park with jumps, rails, kickers, gaps, and tables; horse-drawn sleigh rides, lots of lodging and dining choices
What's special: New Hampshire's longest tubing run, largest terrain park close to Boston
Where to stay: Hotels near Gunstock Ski Area
More Information: 1-603-293-4341; Gunstock website; photo courtesy of Gunstock Ski Area
Ragged Mountain Resort, Danbury, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/4 hours, 101 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, racing, tubing
What you'll find: 1,250 foot vertical drop, 55 runs (including glades), 3 terrain parks plus a Learn to Slide beginner park, 244 skiable acres (trails and glades), 2,100 acres total, 7 lifts, 84% snowmaking.
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, 30% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, ski teams, affordable food choices, children's and teens ski camps, mid-week lift ticket specials and deals, 10-lane tubing park with carpet lift and 100% snowmaking.
What's special: Sweeps the Flamingo . . . yes, a "real" plastic pink flamingo on Ragged Mountain! Every day the Ski Patrollers hide him somewhere on this mid-sized mountain . . . find Sweeps, bring him to Guest Services, and you'll get a free day of skiing at Ragged. Lots of family-oriented fun here, with challenging slopes for intermediate and even advanced skiers as well.
Where to stay: Hotels near Ragged Mountain Ski Resort
More Information: 1-603-768-3600; Ragged Mountain website; photo courtesy of Ragged Mountain Ski Resort
Whaleback Ski Area, Enfield, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 hours and twenty minutes, 124 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, racing
What you'll find: 700 foot vertical drop, 30 trails, 2 terrain parks, 60 skiable acres, 2 lifts, 85% snowmaking.
Trail difficulty: 28% novice, 39% intermediate, 33% advanced
More: Wide variety of lessons and programs at this small, family-friendly ski area in central New Hampshire
What's special: Whaleback is owned and operated by the community-supported Upper Valley Snow Sports Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to keeping Whaleback affordable while offering a variety of programs.
Where to stay: Hotels near Whaleback Ski Area
More Information: 1-603-448-1489; Whaleback website
Middle New Hampshire Ski Areas
Great snow at these resorts - but farther from the city . . . perfect for weekend getaways.
King Pine, East Madison, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 122 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, night skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides,
What you'll find: 350 foot vertical drop, 17 trails, 45 skiable acres, 6 lifts, 100% snowmaking;
Trail difficulty: 44% novice, 31% intermediate, 25% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, guided snowshoe tours
What's special: Part of the Purity Spring Resort located on a private lake, with a ski village with shops, restaurants, entertainment; sleigh rides, fireworks, ice-skating, and lots of kids activities
Where to stay: Hotels near King Pine and Purity Spring Resort
More Information: 1-603-367-8896; King Pine website
Waterville Valley Resort, Waterville Valley, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 129 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing
What you'll find: 2,020 foot vertical drop, 54 trails, 255 skiable acres, 10 lifts, 100% snowmaking, 40+ miles of groomed trails
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 60% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults; ski village with nice shops, restaurants, and a spa; 4 terrain parks
What's special: Large ski resort with lots of amenities; bus ride/lift ticket combo from Boston (see website); entertainment at the Lodge
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-800-468-2553; Waterville website; photo courtesy of Waterville Valley Resort
Loon Mountain, Lincoln, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 130 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, day and night snow tubing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, NASTAR racing
What you'll find: 2,100 foot vertical drop, 61 trails, 370 skiable acres, 7 tree skiing areas, 12 lifts, 99% snowmaking, 6 terrain parks for every level of ability, 425 foot long superpipe, 27 miles of trails, longest trail 2.5 miles, uphill lift capacity of 15,157 skiers/hour
Trail difficulty: 20% novice, 60% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding school for kids and adults, indoor and outdoor climbing walls, zipline across the Pemigewasset River, lots of events and entertainment, "Frequent Skier Card"
What's special: Many activities and entertainment options at this big resort close to Boston, and a terrific snow-makiing system, making this one of the most popular New England ski areas with Bostonians - on a busy weekend, you'll see plenty of people you know here.
Where to stay: Loon Mountain hotels and deals
More Information: 1-603-745-8111; Loon website; photo courtesy Loon Mountain
Dartmouth Skiway, Lyme Center, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2 3/4 hours, 147 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 968 foot vertical drop, 30 trails, 104 skiable acres across 2 mountains, 3 lifts, 70% snowmaking.
Trail difficulty: 25% novice, 50% intermediate, 25% advanced
More: Snow Sports School provides skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Family-oriented center that's home to nearly 100 Dartmouth All-Americans and more than 30 national champions - you'll see many of them here with their families, along with Dartmouth College students hitting the slopes as a break from studying; the Skiway belongs to Dartmouth College, 15 minutes away.
Where to stay: Hotels in Hanover near Dartmouth College and Dartmouth Skiway
More Information: 1-603-795-2143; Dartmouth website; photo courtesy of Dartmouth Skiway
Cranmore Mountain Resort, North Conway, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 3 hours, 138 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing park, mountain coaster
What you'll find: 1,200 foot vertical drop, 54 trails, 200+ skiable acres, 10 lifts, 100% snowmaking, longest run 1 mile, 3 terrain parks
Trail difficulty: 24% novice, 46% intermediate, 29% advanced (8 trails and 8 glades)
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, night skiing, fireworks
What's special: Resort offers lots of attractions and amenities such as mountain coaster, family fitness center, indoor tennis courts, indoor climbing wall, lots of dining options, kids programs, and supervised playroom for young children. Non-skiers in your group will love the excellent North Conway discount shopping.
Where to stay: Hotels near the Cranmore Mountain Resort
More Information: 1-603-356-5543; Cranmore Mountain website
Cannon, Franconia, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 2.5 hours, 143 miles by I-93 (tolls required); 3.5 hours, 192 miles by I-93 and I-89
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, - spanning 2 mountains
What you'll find: 2,180 foot vertical drop (the longest in NH!), 97 trails and glades, 285 skiable acres, 11 lifts with 11,000 skiers/hour capacity, 65% snowmaking, terrain parks
Trail difficulty: 15% novice, 52% intermediate, 33% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for all ages and skill levels, adaptive sports
What's special: Cannon actually spans two mountains: Cannon Mountain and Mittersal Mountain, and offers childcare as well as lots of family-friendly activities
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-603-823-8800; Cannon Mountain website
Bretton Woods @ Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 3 hours, 159 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country, tubing, dog sledding, sleigh rides, ziplining, ice skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, alpine eco tours, alpine racing
What you'll find: 1,500 foot vertical drop, 102 trails and glades, 464 skiable acres, 9 lifts with 14,000 skiers/hour capacity, 92% snowmaking, terrain parks
Trail difficulty: 35% novice, 40% intermediate, 25% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons and schools for kids and adults, welcoming firepit next to the base lodge, full service spa, night skiing
What's special: With the historic hotel at its center, the enormous 4-season Bretton Woods/Omni Mount Washington Resort offers a huge variety of activities, amenities, and attractions, including one of the longest canopy tours in the U.S. You'll also love the breath-taking scenery and views.
A bit of history: If "Bretton Woods" sounds familiar for some reason other than just skiing, it's because this was the site of the United Nations International Monetary Conference in 1944 where delegates from 44 Allied nations met and established the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the U.S. dollar as the standard for international monetary exchange. The conference actually took place at the enormous Mount Washington Hotel, even then a famous resort.
Where to stay:
- Omni Mount Washington Resort
- Omni Bretton Arms Inn at Mount Washington Resort
- The Lodge @ Bretton Woods
- Other hotels near Bretton Woods
More Information: 1-800-314-1752 or 1-603-278-3320; Bretton Woods website
Attitash, Bartlett, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/4 hours, 176 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, race teams
What you'll find: 2 peaks, 1,750 foot vertical drop on Attitash Mountain, 1,450 foot vertical drop on Bear Peak, 68 trails and glades, 311 skiable acres, 10 lifts, uphill lift capacity of 14,385 people per hour, 23 miles of trails, 98% snowmaking coverage
Trail difficulty: 33% novice, 47% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults; mountain coaster covering almost a mile in length; lots of events and entertainment
What's special: Attitash's Thad's Choice terrain park, with over 1,700 feet of ramps, table tops, huge air hits, jibs, and rails, is rated the best in the Mount Washington Valley; interchangeable season passes and left tickets with Wildcat Mountain
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-603-374-2368; Attitash website
Black Mountain, Jackson, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/4 hours, 159 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 1,100 foot vertical drop, 44 trails and glades, 143 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 98% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 34% novice, 32% intermediate, 34% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, race programs, on-site pub with entertainment, military and college student discounts, lots of attractive mid-week deals and specials.
What's special: This family-owned 4-season White Mountains resort offers a family-oriented experience, terrific views, a southern exposure, a nice balance of easy/intermediate/difficult trails, and smaller crowds than some of its other White Mountain rivals. Black Mountain is all about skiing and riding, but in the nearby village of Jackson, you'll find some great music, entertainment, and shopping.
Where to stay: Hotels near Black Mountain
More Information: 1-603-383-4490; Black Mountain website
Wildcat Mountain, Jackson, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 159 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 2,112 foot vertical drop, 47 trails, 225 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 90% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 25% novice, 45% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults; excellent spring skiing; 1/2 mile long zip rider
What's special: Offering close-up views of Mount Washington, Mount Adams, and Mount Madison, Wildcat Mountain is rumored to have the best views of any ski area in New England; also has the longest top-to-bottom runs, at 2.75 miles, in New England, as well as New England's most powerful quad chairlift (2,112' vertical in 6 minutes); interchangeable season passes and lift tickets with Attitash
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-603-466-3326; Wildcat Mountain website
Northern New Hampshire Ski Areas
Why would you drive so far from Boston when other resorts are closer?
That's easy - superb views, excellent powder, steep terrain, and a season that lasts well into spring.
The Balsams Resort, Dixville Notch, New Hampshire
Time and distance from Boston: 4 1/2 hours, 217 miles
What you can do: Skiing (downhill and cross country), snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating
What you'll find: 1,000 foot vertical drop, including some of the steepest terrain in New England, 16 trails, 87 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 5 gladed areas, terrain park, 80% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 28% novice, 22% intermediate, 33% advanced, 17% expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, sleigh rides, entertainment, occasional hockey and broomball games, wine tastings, billiards tournaments, speakers, movies, salon and spa
What's special: This 4-season family-oriented grand resort provides a wide range of winter (and summer) sports and activities, including complimentary skiing for registered guests - something for everyone to enjoy!
Where to stay: The Balsams Grand Resort
More Information: 1-603-255-3400 or 1-800-255-0600; The Balsams website; photo courtesy of The Balsams Resort
Vermont Ski Areas
Central Vermont
Due to a quirk in geography, Central Vermont ski slopes are closer to Boston than those in Southern Vermont - so we present Central Vermont slopes first.
Saskadena Six, Woodstock, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 141 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 650 foot vertical drop, 24 trails and slopes, 100 skiable acres, 3 lifts, 50% snowmaking, 2 terrain parks; longest run is 1 mile (5,280 feet)
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 40% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, on-site restaurant, close to renowned The Woodstock Inn and Resort
What's special: Discounts for college students, military, and Woodstock Inn guests; focus on family-oriented fun
Where to stay:
- Woodstock Inn and Resort - Take the resort hotel's free shuttle to Suicide Six
- Other Woodstock VT hotels and deals
More Information: 1-802-457-1622; Saskadena Six website
Okemo Mountain Resort, Ludlow, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 hours, 165 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, NASTAR, alpine racing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing
What you'll find: 2,200 foot vertical drop, 119 trails, slopes, and glades, 632 Skiable acres, 19 lifts with uphill capacity of 33,450 riders/hour, 96% snowmaking, longest trail 4.5 miles, 5 mountain areas (2 peaks, 2 faces, 1 ridge), 6 terrain parks and 1 superpipe
Trail difficulty: 32% novice, 36% intermediate, 32% advanced/expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, season discount passes for college students, some weekday special deals
What's special: The 4-season Okemo Mountain Resort features a ski and snowboarding school with 400+ teaching professionals. Family-oriented.
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-802-228-4041; Okemo Mountain website
Killington Resort, Killington, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/4 hours, 160 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, rock climbing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling
Hours of operation: Until 4pm
What you'll find: 6 mountains, 3,050 foot vertical drop, 140 trails, 752 skiable acres, 22 lifts with uphill capacity of 38,315 people/hour, 70% snowmaking, 7 terrain parks, 500 foot long superpipe, 71 miles of trails, 250" (635cm) of annual average natural snowfall
Trail difficulty: 28% novice, 33% intermediate, 39% advanced / expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, shopping, spas, great dining, renowned nightlife at Wobbly Barn, discount card, college student and military discounts; mountain biking and golf in the summer
What's special: Stretching across 6 mountains, Killington offers diverse terrain, the steepest and longest mogul slope in the Northeast, the world's most extensive snow making system covering 600 acres, and a spring skiing season that extends through early May (conditions permitting).
Killington is one of the largest ski resorts in the Northeast, and a popular destination from Boston. Smoke-free environment at Ramshead Mountain.
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-802-422-3261; Killington website
Southern Vermont
Mount Snow, West Dover, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 2.75 hours, 150 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, dog sledding, ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing
What you'll find: 1,700 foot vertical drop, 80 trails, 588 skiable acres across all 4 faces of Mount Snow, 20 lifts, including one with 6-person bubble chairs (30,370 people per hour total capacity), 80% snowmaking, 37 miles of trails, 10 terrain parks across 100 acres, 1 superpipe
Hours of operation: Until 4pm (3:30pm early season)
Trail difficulty: 16% novice, 66% intermediate, 18% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, equipment rentals, passes and discounts for college students. Nearby: guided snowmobile tours during the Green Mountain National Forest
What's special: Top East Coast terrain park with 80 features and nearly 5 miles of trails spread over 12 parks; home to the Dew Tour in February
Where to stay: Hotels near Mount Snow
More Information: 1-800-245-7669; Mount Snow website
Stratton Mountain Resort, Bondville, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/4 hours, 157 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, NASTAR racing, ice skating on Stratton Village Pond, tubing, snowshoeing tours.
What you'll find: Highest peak in Southern VT, 2,003 foot vertical drop, 92 trails, 600 skiable acres, 39 skiable miles, 16 lifts (29,550 capacity), terrain parks. Trail difficulty: 42% novice, 31% intermediate, 27% advanced. 90% snowmaking.
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, free parking and free shuttle between resort areas and hotels, equipment rentals, plenty of dining options, indoor swimming pool and tennis, fitness center, shopping in Stratton Village, discount designer shopping 20 minutes away in Manchester, VT.
What's special: Snowboarding - known for having the best parks and pipes in New England. US Open is held here. Every rider must take a short safety workshop.
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-800-787-2886; Stratton websiteResort
Magic Mountain, Londonderry, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/4 hours, 164 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snow tubing
What you'll find: 1,700 foot vertical drop, 40 trails, 135 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 70% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 33% novice, 30% intermediate, 37% advanced and expert
More: Skiing lessons for kids and adults, cross country skiing and showshoeing nearby at Viking Nordic Centre, designer discount shopping in Manchester, VT
What's special: A steep 45 degree slope at the top of Magic Mountain; look for novice and intermediate terrain and classic Vermont cruising trails on the East Side; on the West Side, you'll find plenty of intermediate, advance, and expert terrain to challenge you
Where to stay: Hotels and lodging near Magic Mountain
More Information: 1-802-824-5645; Magic Mountain website
Bromley Mountain, Peru, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 169 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, zip riding
What you'll find: 1,334 foot vertical drop, 43 trails, 300 skiable acres, 10 lifts, 80% snowmaking, 4 terrain parks spanning the mountain
Trail difficulty: 35% novice, 34% intermediate, 31% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults; nearby: ice skating, dog sledding, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross country skiing; close to Manchester designer outlets
What's special: All the fun family-oriented activities in the area; spectacular scenery; great amusement park to check out for a return visit during the summer
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-802-824-5522; Bromley Mountain website
Northern Vermont
Sugarbush Resort, Warren, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 184 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, NASTAR racing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, ice skating, mountain and outback tours
What you'll find: 2,600 foot vertical drop, 111 trails totaling 53 miles, 508 skiable acres, 16 lifts, 70% snowmaking, 2,000 acre wilderness area, 3 terrain parks, 269" average annual snowfall
Trail difficulty: 20% novice, 45% intermediate, 35% advanced/expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, indoor pool, indoor tennis and racketball, rock-climbing gym
What's special: Located in Mad River Valley, Sugarbush Resort includes 2 mountains, 6 peaks, a terrain park, 11 wooded areas, and lots of varied terrain
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-802-583-6300; Sugarbush website
Burke Mountain Ski Area, East Burke, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 189 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, showshoeing
What you'll find: 2,011 foot vertical drop, 50 trails and glades, 178 skiable acres, 4 lifts with 4,780 person/hour capacity, 70% snowmaking, 3 terrain parks, average annual snowfall of 217 inches
Trail difficulty: 25% novice, 45% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Burke Mountain ski area, located in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, is home to the Burke Mountain Academy, producer of 45 Olympians.
Where to stay: Northeast Kingdom hotels and vacation rentals near Burke Mountain
More Information: 1-413-528-2000; Burke Mountain website
Mad River Glen, Waitsfield, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 196 miles
What you can do: Skiing, racing
What you'll find: 2,037 foot vertical drop, 45 trails, 115 skiable acres plus 800 acres of boundary-to-boundary tree skiing, 4 lifts, 15% snowmaking, annual average snowfall of 250 inches
Trail difficulty: 30% novice, 30% intermediate, 40% advanced
More: Ski school for kids and adults; note: equipment rental not available
What's special: Mad River Glen is a member-owned co-op, committed to making continual improvements and preserving this special ski area. Mad River Glen owns the last single chairlift in the U.S.
Where to stay: Hotels near Mad River Glen
More Information: 1-802-496-3551; Mad River Glen website
Stowe Mountain Resort, Stowe, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 200 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, racing, dog sled tours
What you'll find: 2,360 foot vertical drop, 116 trails, 485 skiable acres, 13 lifts with 15,000 person/hour capacity, 80% snowmaking, 2 freestyle terrain parks, halfpipe, longest run 3.7 miles, average annual snowfall of 333 inches
Trail difficulty: 15% novice, 59% intermediate, 25% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, spa
What's special: Two mountains divided into 6 areas for skiers and snowboarders
Where to stay:
More Information: 802-253-3000; Stowe Mountain Resort website
Cochran's Ski Area, Richmond, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 207 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 500 foot vertical drop, 5 trails, 30 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 20% snowmaking, affordable prices
Trail difficulty: 22% novice, 22% intermediate, 56% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: The Cochran family started this ski area in their back yard, so to speak, in 1961 with a couple of backyard trails and a short rope tow.
As the family's 4 children became members of the U.S. Ski Team and Olympic (Gold Medal) and World Cup success, the family ski areas expanded and developed, offering a wide array of educational and recreational programs.
In 1998, the family transformed the area into the first New England non-profit ski area- in fact, the first in the U.S. - in order to continue the mission of providing top-notch local skiing and training at very affordable prices.
Now the next generation of Cochrans are winning national and international titles.
Where to stay: Hotels near Cochran's Ski Area
More Information: 1-802-434-2479; Cochran Ski Area website; photo courtesy of Cochran's Ski Area
Bolton Valley Resort, Bolton Valley, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 208 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, telemark, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, night skiing, snowshoeing, racing
What you'll find: 1,704 foot vertical drop, 71 trails, 300 skiable acres, 6 lifts, 60% snowmaking, 3 terrain parks, 312 inches average annual snowfall
Trail difficulty: 36% novice, 37% intermediate, 27% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, indoor pool
What's special: The large indoor sports center for winter season features an indoor pool, spa, basketball, jacuzzi, sauna, aerobics, fitness equipment, and sports bar; excellent lift ticket prices for college students and night skiing
Where to stay: Hotels near Bolton Valley Resort
More Information: Bolton Valley website; photo courtesy of Bolton Valley Resort
Middlebury College Snow Bowl, Middlebury, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 3 3/4 hours, 195 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 1,050 foot vertical drop, 17 trails, 110 skiable acres, boundary-to-boundary access to 500+ acres wooded terrain, 3 lifts, 35% snowmaking
Trail difficulty: 29% novice, 21% intermediate, 50% advanced
More: Historic lodge with original fieldstone fireplace, cafeteria; lessons available from professionals at the "Snow School"
What's special: Owned by Middlebury College, the Snowbowl is located in Middlebury Gap and is popular with college students and local families - and a great choice for anyone wanting to escape the crowds at the bigger resorts.
Where to stay: Middlebury Hotels
More Information: Middlebury College website (Search on "snow bowl"); photo courtesy of Middlebury College Snow Bowl
Smugglers' Notch Resort, Jeffersonville, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 4 hours, 213 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, showshoeing, dog sledding, snowmobile touring, ice skating, zipline canopy tour
What you'll find: 3 interconnected mountains with Vermont's biggest drop: 2,610 foot vertical, 78 trails, 1,000 skiable acres (largest in VT), 8 lifts, 62% snowmaking, 5 terrain parks, average annual snowfall of 322 inches (yes, that's almost 30 feet!)
Trail difficulty: 19% novice, 50% intermediate, 31% advanced - including 5 black diamond trails, and The Black Hole - the only Triple Black Diamond in the East
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, indoor pool,ice skating rink, arts and crafts workshop, year-round canopy tours with 9 zip lines, suspension bridge, and 2 rappels
What's special: Three big mountains with all kinds of terrain connected by lifts and trails at this top full-service family-oriented resort complete with slopeside village with restaurants, eateries, entertainment; open through mid-April; 360 degree views of Canada, Lake Champlain, and the White Mountains of NH from the base-to-summit Madonna 1 lift
Where to stay: Smugglers' Notch Resort and other nearby hotels
More Information: 1-802-644-8851; Smuggler's Notch website; photo courtesy of Smuggler's Notch Resort
Jay Peak Resort, Jay, Vermont
Time and distance from Boston: 4 hours, 227 miles
What you can do: Downhill, cross country, snowshoe tours, horse-drawn sleigh rides, ice skating, indoor waterpark
What you'll find: 2 peaks, 50+ miles of skiable terrain, 385+ skiable acres, 100+ acres off-piste skiing, and 76 trails, glades, and chutes. Trails: 20% novice, 40% intermediate, 40% advanced. Longest trail is 3 miles.
What's special: HUGE indoor waterpark, a new hotel, a new lodge, a new ice rink, and a new clubhouse on the golf course . . . plus snowmaking upgrades and more. This year-round resort less than 3 miles from the Canadian border continues to expand and upgrade. Magnificent vistas from what feels like the top of the world.
Where to stay: Hotels and vacation rentals near Jay's Peak
More Information: Jay Peak website; photo courtesy of Jay Peak Resort
Rhode Island's Only Ski Area
Although Rhode Island once boasted 6 ski areas, now only Yawgoo Valley remains open. If you're driving from south of Boston, you can reach Yawgoo in an hour or less.
Yawgoo Valley Ski Area, Exeter, Rhode Island
Time and distance from Boston: 1 1/2 hours, 70 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing
What you'll find: 245 foot vertical drop, 12 trails, 38 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 100% snowmaking, terrain park
Trail difficulty: 50% novice, 30% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: What do you do if you own a ski slope in a state has hills rather than mountains, and have to compete with big ski resorts on real mountains just a couple of hours away? Well, if you're Yawgoo Valley Ski Area, you provide an experience that's fun! Generations of Rhode Islanders have learned to ski here, and continue to enjoy the slopes, terrain park, and snow tubing area - if you're visiting south of Boston, Yawgoo is close, so check it out!
Where to stay: Hotels near Yawgoo Valley Ski Area
More Information: 1-401-294-3802; Yawgoo website; photo courtesy of Yawgoo Valley Ski Area
Connecticut Ski Areas
Connecticut ski slopes cluster in the Berkshires in the western part of the state.
These ski areas are virtually unknown to most skiers from Boston, who normally head north to the steeper slopes in New Hampshire and Vermont, or even west to the Massachusetts Berkshires.
Most skiers at the Connecticut ski areas hail from local areas, or come from New York or Rhode Island.
However, you can reach Connecticut ski areas in just 2 1/4 - 3 hours from Boston - and because their family-oriented focus means they're about having fun, you can relax and enjoy.
You won't find slope-side lodging, but with plenty of small hotels and New England inns in lovely nearby villages and towns, these Connecticut ski slopes can be fun for a low-key weekend getaway - and for some of the first skiing each October.
Mount Southington, Plantsville, Connecticut
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/4 hours, 120 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, night skiing
What you'll find: 425 foot vertical drop, 14 trails, 51 skiable acres, 7 lifts (including 2 for children only), 100% snowmaking, 2 terrain parks
Trail difficulty: 33% novice, 42% intermediate, 25% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Family-oriented fun!
Where to stay: Hotels in Plantsville
More Information: 1-860-628-0954; Mount Southington website; photo courtesy of Mount Southington
Ski Sundown, New Hartford, Connecticut
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 120 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 625 foot vertical drop, 15 trails, 65 skiable acres, 5 lifts, 100% snowmaking, 2 terrain parks, night skiing, longest trail 1 mile, lift capacity of 8,040 skiers per hour
Trail difficulty: 50% novice, 25% intermediate, 25% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Lots of lesson options and programs
Where to stay: Hotels near Ski Sundown
More Information: 1-860-379-7669; Ski Sundown website; photo courtesy of Ski Sundown
Woodbury Ski Area, Woodbury, Connecticut
Time and distance from Boston: 2 3/4 hours, 144 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cross-country skiing, skateboarding, sledding, snowbiking
What you'll find: 2 mountains, 300 foot vertical drop, 15 trails, 100 skiable acres, 6 lifts, 100% snowmaking, terrain park, longest run 1/2 mile
Trail difficulty: 25% novice, 50% intermediate, 25% advanced/expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Closest big tubing park to NYC, and almost always the first ski area in the state to be open in the fall - often as early as October
Where to stay: Hotels near Woodbury Ski Area
More Information: 1-203-263-2203; Woodbury Ski Area website; photo courtesy of Woodbury Ski Area
Mohawk Mountain Ski Area, Cornwall, Connecticut
Time and distance from Boston: 3 hours, 139 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 650 foot vertical drop, 25 trails, 107 skiable acres, 6 lifts, 98% snowmaking, terrain park
Trail difficulty: 20% novice, 60% intermediate, 20% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Lots of varied terrain in this ski area in the Berkshire Mountains of Northwest Connecticut
Where to stay: Hotels near Mohawk Mountain Ski Area
More Information: 1-860-672-6100; Mohawk Mountain website; photo courtesy of Mohawk Mountain Ski Area
Maine Ski Areas
Central Maine
Although Central Maine ski areas are as close as 2 1/2 - 3 hours from Boston, more northern slopes take longer to reach.
So why drive all the way to Maine to ski from Boston, when other areas are closer?
Maine's mountains are higher and farther north - on the top of the world, for New England - so the snow stays drier, lasts longer, and is less icy than farther south.
Relatively few people travel to many of the Maine ski areas because of the distance from Boston and other cities, so most slopes are uncrowded.
Central Vermont ski slopes are closer to Boston than those in Southern Vermont - so we present Central Vermont slopes first.
Lost Valley, Auburn, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 2 1/2 hours, 137 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 240 foot vertical drop, 15 trails, 45 skiable acres, 3 lifts, 100% snowmaking, terrain park, night skiing
Trail difficulty: 40% novice, 27% intermediate, 33% advanced
More: Ski school for kids and adults
What's special: Hourly rates - great if you can hit the slopes for only a couple of hours; family-friendly programs
Where to stay: Hotels near Lost Valley
More Information: 1-207-784-1561; Lost Valley website; photo courtsy of Lost Valley and Bill Bailie
Shawnee Peak, Bridgton, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 hours, 150 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 1,300 foot vertical drop, 38 trails and glades, 245 skiable acres, 5 lifts with uphill lift capacity of 7,200 skiers per hour, 98% snowmaking, 2 terrain parks - 1 freestyle and 1 for beginners, night skiing, average annual snowfall of 90-110 inches, open from mid-December through late March, night skiing 6 or 7 nights/week
Trail difficulty: 25% novice, 45% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding school for kids and adults, lots of weekday (and night) lift ticket deals, 2 lodges with cafeteria dining, full table service dining and entertainment in Blizzard's Pub, only 20 minutes from North Conway discount shopping
What's special: Fun and close to Boston, with lots of trails for intermediate skiers.
Where to stay: Hotels near Shawnee Peak
More Information: 1-207-647-8444; Shawnee Peak website; photo courtesy of Shawnee Peak
Mount Abram Family Resort, Greenwood, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/4 hours, 158 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing park
What you'll find: 1,150 foot vertical drop, 44 trails, 650 skiable acres of trails and glades plus 400 more forested acres for experienced skiers, 5 lifts, 75% snowmaking, 4 freestyle terrain parks
Trail difficulty: 24% novice, 47% intermediate, 29% advanced and expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Small ski area near Sunday River, and a great alternative if you want something lower-key
Where to stay: Hotels near Mount Abram Family Resort
More Information: 1-207-875-5000; Mount Abram website; photo courtesy of Mount Abram Family Resort
Black Mountain of Maine, Rumford, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 179 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, cross-country skiing, racing
What you'll find: 1,150 foot vertical drop, 25 trails, 3 lifts, terrain park, top-to-bottom lighting for night skiing
Trail difficulty: 14% novice, 43% intermediate, 43% advanced and expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Fun ski and snowboard area. Affordable rates - free for kids enrolled in grades K, 1, and 2 in any Maine school
Where to stay: Hotels near Black Mountain
More Information: 1-207-364-8977; Ski Black Mountain website; photo courtesy of Black Mountain of Maine
Sunday River Ski Resort, Bethel, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 1/2 hours, 170 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, snow tubing, ziplining
What you'll find: 8 mountain peaks, 1,630 foot vertical drop on White Cap, with a total vertical descent across all 8 mountains of 2,340 feet, 132 trails, 671 skiable acres plus 1,000+ more acres for boundary-to-boundary skiing/riding, 16 lifts with a capacity of 40,000 skiers/hour, 92% snowmaking, 4 terrain parks, 1 superpipe, 1 mini pipe, average season is November - late April, average annual snowfall of 167 inches
Trail difficulty: 33% novice, 36% intermediate, 31% advanced and expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, huge snowmaking system, night skiing, music, entertainment, fireworks
What's special: This huge family-friendly ski resort stretches for 3 miles over 8 mountain peaks so there's plenty of space here for everyone. With a huge array of winter sports available, everyone will find something to enjoy here.
Where to stay:
More Information: 1-207-824-3000; Sunday River website; photo courtesy of Sunday River Ski Resort and taken by Nick Lambert
Eaton Mountain Ski Area, Skowegan, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 3/4 hours, 200 miles
What you can do: Snow tubing; skiing (when snow conditions permit)
What you'll find: 525 foot vertical drop, 12 trails from easy to expert - and two new ski tows, ski rentals, and lessons
More: Lodge with healthy food; alcohol-free environment
What's special: Small local snow tubing area with family-friendly rates; new owners who are committed to restoring skiing on this mountain, and are making great progress!
Where to stay: Waterville hotels near Eaton Mountain
More Information: 1-207-474-2666; Eaton Mou ntain website; photo courtesy of Eaton Mountain
Return to Top - New England Ski Areas
Titcomb, West Farmington, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 3/4 hours, 180 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing
What you'll find: 340 foot vertical drop, 16 trails, 45 skiable acres, 2 lifts, 70% snowmaking, terrain park, night skiing twice a week
Trail difficulty: 23% novice, 29% intermediate, 48% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, lodge with a big stone fireplace and home-cooked food
What's special: Excellent family-oriented place with a special focus on teaching beginners, affordable rates; owned and operated by Farmington Ski Club with special rates and privileges for members
Where to stay: Hotels near Titcomb
More Information: 1-207-778-9031; Titcomb website; photo courtesy of Titcomb
Camden Snow Bowl, Camden, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 3 3/4 hours, 188 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, toboggan chute, snow tubing, ice skating, showshoeing, winter hiking, racing
What you'll find: 943 foot vertical drop, 9 trails, 80 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 45% snowmaking, terrain park
Trail difficulty: 22% novice, 67% intermediate, 11% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults. Host of the U.S. National Toboggan Championship in February.
What's special: Camden Snow Bowl's location just outside of the cultural center of coastal Camden, Maine. Wide selection of winter sports. Spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Location near the coast means outdoor temps are not as frigid, although the snow will be softer than other higher, colder, drier Maine slopes. Community owned. Friday night coffee house with open mic and live music by local singer/songwriters and musicians
Where to stay: Hotels in Camden
More Information: 1-207-236-3438; Camden Snow Bowl website; photo courtesy of Camden Snow Bowl
New Hermon Mountain, Hermon, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 4 hours, 229 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing
What you'll find: 350 foot vertical drop, 18 trails, 70 skiable acres, 3 lifts, 100% snowmaking, terrain park, annual average snowfall of 110 inches, night skiing
Trail difficulty: 40% novice, 30% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, full service snack bar in the new lodge, very affordable rates
What's special: Small family-owned ski area close to Bangor that's perfect for beginning skiers, plus excellent tubing runs designed to be fun for all ages (over 3 years)
Where to stay: Bangor hotels near New Hermon Mountain
More Information: 1-207-848-5192; New Hermon website; photo courtesy of New Hermon Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain, Carrabassett, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 4 1/2 hours, 230 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, ziplining
What you'll find: 2 mountains, 2,820 foot vertical drop, 153 trails and glades, 1,056 skiable acres, 15 lifts with capacity of 21,810 skiers/hour, 53% snowmaking, 3 terrain parks, superpipe, longest trail 3.5 miles, average annual snowfall 200 inches
Trail difficulty: 22% novice, 33% intermediate, 45% advanced and expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults, average length of season is mid-November through the end of April. Concerts, nightlife. Overnight ski check service.
What's special: Largest ski area east of the Rockies; econd highest mountain in Maine (only Katahdin, which is not a ski area, is higher), with cold dry, snow and smaller crowds than Sunday River. Only lift-serviced above-treeline skiing in the East. The greatest continuous vertical drop in New England.
Where to stay: Hotels near Sugarloaf
More Information: 1-207-237-2000; Sugarloaf website; photo courtesy of Sugarloaf Mountain
Saddleback Mountain, Rangeley, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 4 1/2 hours, 221 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, racing
What you'll find: 2,000 foot vertical drop, 66 trails and glades, 152 skiable acres, 5 lifts, 85% snowmaking, terrain park, longest run 3.1 miles, average annual snowfall of 200 inches
Trail difficulty: 33% novice, 32% intermediate, 45% advanced and expert
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: Not far from Sugarloaf, with stunningly gorgeous scenery and short or non-existent lift lines.
The self-contained Kennegabo Steeps area offers a 4,000 foot elevation at the top, advanced skiing with 12 steep trails, and its own quad chairlift and food service.
Less pricey than other big Maine resorts, plus mid-week specials. Locally owned. Affordable season passes for military and college students. Inexpensive season passes for Maine K-12 students on the Honor Roll!
Where to stay: Hotels near Saddleback
More Information: 1-207-918-3380; Saddleback website; photo courtesy of Saddleback Mountain
Northern Maine
Mount Jefferson Ski Area, Lee, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 5 1/4 hours, 296 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding
What you'll find: 432 foot vertical drop, 12 trails, 3 lifts (1 rope tow and 2 T-bars), no snowmaking (but no need due to dry snow and cold temps), terrain park, half pipe, skiable area of 12 acres
Trail difficulty: 33% novice, 33% intermediate, 34% advanced
More: Skiing lessons for kids and adults
What's special: This small family-owned ski area northeast of Orono is perfect for beginning skiers and family fun. Would you drive all the way from Boston to ski here? Probably not - but if you're in the Orono/Bangor area anyway, stop by, as it's close to Route 95 and picturesque Lee Village. Rates are some of the lowest I've seen.
Where to stay:
- Hotels in Millinocket, near Mount Katahdin
- Hotels in Orono
More Information: 1-207-738-2377 | www.skimtjefferson.com | Photo courtesy Mount Jefferson Ski Area
Bigrock Ski Area, Mars Hill, Maine
Time and distance from Boston: 6 1/2 hours, 380 miles
What you can do: Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing park, cross country skiing, snowshoe trails, night skiing, racing
What you'll find: 980 foot vertical drop (highest in Northern Maine or Canadian Maritimes), 35 trails, 50 skiable acres, 4 lifts, 60% snowmaking, terrain park
Trail difficulty: 20% novice, 50% intermediate, 30% advanced
More: Skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids and adults
What's special: This small ski area in the far northeastern corner of Maine is only about 4 miles from the border with New Brunswick, Canada. Owned by the Maine Winter Sports Center, and dedicated to providing an affordable place for individuals and families to learn how to ski, and to enjoy winter sports. Great place to stop by for some skiing if you're driving up to New Brunswick from Boston.
Where to stay:
- Hotels in Houlton, Maine, USA
- Hotels in Presque Isle, Maine, USA
- Hotels in Woodstock, New Brunswick, Canada
More Information: 1-207-425-2000; Bigrock Ski Area website; photo courtesy of Bigrock Ski Area
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