Vermont has a lot of ski resorts. This guide covers the ones that make sense for families and groups driving from New York or Boston, with a focus on Ikon Pass and Epic Pass access.
Southern Vermont
These are the mountains you can reach in a reasonable weekend drive.
Stratton Mountain
About 670 skiable acres, just under 100 trails, 2,000 feet of vertical. Walkable base village with restaurants and shops. 4 to 4.5 hours from NYC. 3 to 3.5 hours from Boston. Unlimited on the Ikon Pass.
Good for groups where people ski at different levels. The trail mix is balanced and the village gives non-skiers something to do.
Mount Snow
Closest option for Boston (about 2.5 to 3 hours). The North Face has steeper terrain. Carinthia is one of the best terrain park setups on the East Coast. Unlimited on the Epic Pass.
Okemo
Family-first mountain. Meticulous grooming, 98% snowmaking coverage, kids under 6 ski free. 4.5 to 5 hours from NYC, about 3 hours from Boston. Unlimited on the Epic Pass.
Bromley
The only Vermont resort that faces south. Warmer and sunnier than its neighbors. Compact at under 200 acres and 47 trails. Independent pass. Best for families with younger kids who want a relaxed day.
Magic Mountain
Magic caps daily ticket sales, so it never feels crowded. Steep, narrow, natural terrain. Accepts Indy Pass. Open Thursday through Sunday plus powder days. Different vibe from the corporate resorts.
Central and Northern Vermont
Bigger mountains, longer drives. Destination trips rather than weekenders.
Killington
Biggest terrain in the East. 1,500 acres, 155 trails, 3,050 feet of vertical. Opens in late October, runs into May. 5 to 5.5 hours from NYC, about 3 hours from Boston. 7 days on the full Ikon Pass.
Sugarbush
484 acres. Castlerock is considered one of the hardest in-bounds runs on the East Coast. Unlimited on the Ikon Pass. Best for people who want to ski hard.
Stowe
485 acres. The Front Four double-blacks. One of New England’s best mountain towns for walking around after skiing. Unlimited on the Epic Pass.
How to Choose
Shortest drive + Ikon Pass: Stratton
Shortest drive + Epic Pass: Mount Snow from Boston, Okemo from NYC
Best for families: Okemo (Epic) or Stratton (Ikon)
Most terrain: Killington
Best for advanced skiers: Sugarbush or Magic
Stratton Ski Haus is 7 minutes from Stratton Mountain. Four bedrooms, sleeps 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Vermont ski resort is on the Ikon Pass?
Stratton Mountain (unlimited), Sugarbush (unlimited), and Killington (7 days on full Ikon Pass).
Which Vermont ski resort is closest to NYC?
Stratton Mountain at about 4 hours. Mount Snow is similar. Both are in southern Vermont.
Which Vermont ski resort is best for families?
Okemo for grooming and kids-ski-free policy. Stratton for village atmosphere and balanced terrain. Bromley for younger kids who want a low-key day.
What is the biggest ski resort in Vermont?
Killington. 1,500 acres, 155 trails, 3,050 feet of vertical. Longest season in the East, late October through May.
Is Stratton Mountain good for beginners?
Yes. Good mix of green and blue trails. The base village has rentals and lessons. Spring (late March through April) is the best time for beginners with softer snow and warmer temps.