Besides its beautiful scenery, Vermont has several ski resorts suitable for families and all types of winter sports enthusiasts.
In addition, various activities and facilities are available in this region, such as terrain parks, shopping, and vertical drops.
If you are looking for an environment that is laid-back and where you can go skiing with family members, then Vermont is the place to be.
Due to the diverse nature of its ski resorts, New York and Boston people travel to Vermont to partake in its winter sports activities. Its friendly personality and various activities also draw people to this region.
The article covers the best Vermont ski resorts for families.
Where Is Vermont?
Located in the northeast region of America, Vermont is known for its rich history and natural beauty. This state has covered bridges that date back to the 1800s.
It also has thousands of acres of land accessible through hiking trails, ski slopes, and other facilities.
The state borders New Hampshire, Massachusetts, New York, and Quebec but does not have a border with the Atlantic Ocean, making Vermont the only state in New England that does not have a border with the ocean.
According to the census data released in 2020, the state’s population was around 643,503.
This is the second-least-populated state in the country and the sixth-least-populated area. The capital of the state is known as Montpelier.
See Also: Best Ski Mountains in Vermont
Vermont Ski Resorts for Families
With over 40 cross-country and downhill ski resorts, Vermont is an excellent place for families to get active.
It also has plenty of activities and facilities designed to accommodate different abilities. Some of the facilities that are ideal for families include childcare centers and special programs for kids.
These are the best Vermont ski resorts for families;
1. Stratton Mountain
One of the first resorts on the East Coast that allows snowboarding, Stratton Mountain has become a must-visit for individuals looking to improve their skills.
This area has over 600 acres of terrain that can be used for varying abilities. It’s also located close to New York City and popular with locals due to its proximity.
Aside from its diverse terrain, this resort also has plenty of beginner and intermediate runs that are easy to access, making it one of the best Vermont ski resorts for families. It’s additionally known for its impeccable grooming.
2. Sugarbush
One of the most popular resorts in the state is Sugarbush, which features several mountain areas suitable for different abilities. It also has three terrain parks that are ideal for practice runs.
This massive resort in the state has over a hundred trails designed to accommodate varying abilities. It also has an Adaptive program to help those with special needs participate on the slopes.
This resort makes our list of best Vermont ski resorts for families
3. Okemo Mountain
With over 600 acres of terrain, Okemo Mountain is known for its variety of beginner and intermediate runs, making it one of Vermont’s ski resorts for families.
Although some people might find its slopes too easy, powder hounds will appreciate the challenging terrain.
Despite not having as much snow, Okemo still has one of the best snowmaking facilities in the state. It also has plenty of grooming facilities to keep the slopes looking their best.
4. Stowe Mountain
One of the best ski resorts in the state is Stowe Mountain, known for its diverse terrain and family-friendly environment.
It also boasts the largest mountain in the state and is the best choice for snow lovers in the North East.
Besides its diverse terrain, this resort has several trails that are designed to accommodate different levels of abilities.
Over the years, the resort has undergone numerous renovations. One of these included the construction of a high-speed peak-to-peak gondola.
Its dining options and the various activities and facilities have made it one of the East’s most popular ski areas.
5. Killington
One of the most popular ski resorts in the country is the resort of Killington, which has seven different mountain areas.
These include the Big Dipper and Canyon, designed for experienced powder hounds.
One of the best places for individuals looking to improve their skills is the Snowshed Lodge at Mount Snow in Vermont.
This facility features beginner-friendly runs, which is why it makes our list of Vermont ski resorts for families.
See Also: Things to Do in Burlington (VT)
6. Jay Peak
Located about 20 minutes away from Canada’s border, Jay Peak has impeccable snow conditions.
This facility also has a variety of challenging and easy terrains ideal for those looking to improve their abilities or beginners. Over the years, it has made numerous investments in its facilities.
Jay Peak is another must-visit for anyone who enjoys the slopes. This resort has several luxury hotels and dining options, and it also has a water park and ice skating facilities.
7. Smugglers’ Notch
Due to the popularity of Stowe Mountain, another local ski area was created. This is called America’s Family Resort and only features around 20% of its beginner skiers.
This area has several challenging runs ideal for individuals who want to improve their skills or learn more advanced runs.
One of the best parts of this facility is its Black Hole run. This ski resort is regarded by many as one of the best Vermont ski resorts for families.
8. Mount Snow
One of the best places for skiers and snowboarders who are looking to improve their abilities is Mount Snow.
This facility features over half of its runs being made for intermediate riders. It has earned its reputation due to the quality of its snowmaking.
Some of Mount Snow’s regulars also praise the resort’s impeccable snowmaking and various facilities.
One of the most popular features of this area is its new Base Lodge, which was opened in the 2019 season.
This facility has multiple rooms and is designed to provide an ideal environment. It is also an excellent skiing destination for families.
9. Pico mountain
The opening of Pico Mountain was initially carried out using a rope tow. However, its modern facilities have allowed it to improve its snowmaking capabilities significantly.
Pico Mountain is a medium-sized resort ideal for families and individuals looking to avoid crowds nearby Killington. It recently added several feet of piping.
Pico features several trails suitable for both experienced and intermediate-level riders. It also has various activities such as horse-drawn sleigh riding and snowshoeing.
10. Burke Mountain
One of the best places for intermediate and experienced skiers is Burke Mountain, which has over 90% of its runs being made for riders who are hoping to improve their skills. This facility also features a training center for the US ski team.
Burke Mountain is an excellent choice if you want to improve your skills and have fun while having a good time.
This resort is situated in northeast Vermont and features various clinics and private lessons. In addition, this area has numerous views of Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah.
11. Bolton Valley
Bolton Valley is an excellent choice for beginner and experienced skiers, and it is 30 minutes away from the city of Vermont’s capital Burlington.
This area has 71 trails designed to accommodate expert and beginner skiers. Its night skiing options are also ideal for those exploring the area.
The large terrain of this resort provides both beginners and experienced skiers with plenty of opportunities.
It also has views of Lake Champlain. In addition, this area is known for its night skiing and has hosted multiple events each season.
12. Bromley Mountain
Bromley Mountain is an excellent choice if you are looking for a family-friendly area that offers a variety of opportunities. This facility has 47 runs, and its extensive trails are designed to accommodate kids.
The Bromley Mountain ski school offers private and group lessons for those who are not confident with their abilities.
This facility is located in southern Vermont and has plenty of sunshine. This means that parents won’t hear complaints about the weather.
13. Middlebury College Snow Bowl
The opening of the Snow Bowl at Middlebury College in the 1930s helped create Vermont’s reputation as an excellent destination for skiers.
Despite its small number of trails, this facility is a good choice for both beginner and experienced riders.
The college that used to operate this facility is still involved in the ski resort operation.
It has seven trails that are designed for beginner and intermediate-level riders. This area is a must-visit destination for families.
14. Mad River Glen
One of the best resorts in Vermont is Mad River Glen, and it features several lifts and a vertical drop of over 2,000 feet.
This facility is excellent for experienced riders looking for diverse and challenging terrain. Its uncrowded slopes also allow powder hounds to move freely on the trails.
Mad River Glen’s renovated school for beginner riders is also a great choice. In addition, it has a new lodge designed to provide a tranquil atmosphere.
15. Suicide Six
Although it’s called Suicide Six, this resort is regarded as one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in the state.
It has over 30 trails designed for beginner and expert riders. Compared to other resorts in the area, this facility is less crowded for families with kids.
For experienced riders, Suicide Six is an ideal choice. It has a variety of trails that are ideal for both beginner and expert riders. Its spa is also a must-see for anyone who enjoys relaxing.
16. Haystack Mountain
The Haystack Mountain resort in Vermont features 19 kilometers of slopes ideal for skiing and snowboarding. It’s situated at an elevation of around 975 meters. It has five lifts.
17. Lyndon Outing Club
The Lyndon Outing Club has over two kilometers of slopes ideal for snowboarding and skiing. It’s located near the area’s elevations of 260 and 380.
The Lyndon Outing Club owns and operates the facility, allowing its members to enjoy their favorite sport.
18. Magic Mountain
Its Swiss founder designed the unique features of this mountain. It was inspired by the conditions found in the local ski areas.
This area, located in southern Vermont, offers uncrowded slopes and a family-friendly atmosphere.
This is an excellent choice for experienced and beginner riders looking for challenging terrain.
The Magic Mountain resort in Londonderry features various features designed for both expert and beginner riders.
One of these is its hiking-one-ride-one program, allowing users to get on the lift whenever possible.
19. Quechee Lakes Ski Area
Another great choice is the Quechee Lakes Ski Area, which has five kilometers of slopes ideal for skiing and snowboarding. It’s situated between elevations 199 and 380.
20. Cochran
Another great choice is the Cochran ski area, which has over two kilometers of slopes ideal for snowboarding and skiing. It’s located near the area’s elevations of 220 and 122.
21. Ascutney Mountain
Ascutney Mountain is a local ski area with over 1.8 kilometers of slopes ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
It’s located near the area’s elevations of 768 and 219. Guests can access the various areas of the mountain using its two lifts.
Many professional skiers consider this one of the best Vermont ski resorts for families.
How Much Does it Cost to Visit Vermont?
The average cost of a seven-day trip to Vermont is around $1,289 for a lone traveler. For a family of four, it’s about $2,995, while for a couple, it’s about $1,861.
The average cost of lodging in Vermont is around $76 to $350 a night. On the other hand, most vacation rental properties in the state charge around $220 to $760 a night.
Best Time to Visit Vermont
The best time to visit Vermont is during the fall, from September to November. This period brings pleasant weather and is characterized by the absence of rain storms.
During this time, the temperature in the area is around 46 degrees Fahrenheit.