Killington is the biggest ski area in the East, and it is closer than most people think. Plan on about 4.5 hours from Manhattan, 3 hours from Boston and 3 hours from Hartford in good weather.
From New York City
There are two main routes. One takes I-87 north, then Route 4 east through Rutland. The other takes I-91 north into Vermont, then Routes 103 and 100. Both land around 4.5 hours. Traffic out of the city decides the winner, so check live maps before you go.
Leave by 3 PM on Friday or after 8 PM. The window in between can add two hours.
From Boston
Take I-93 north to I-89 north, then Route 4 west through Woodstock. It runs about 3 hours. Route 4 through Woodstock is two lanes and slow after dark in snow, so give yourself extra time.
From Hartford and Connecticut
I-91 north to White River Junction, then Route 4 west. Plan on about 3 hours. This is the easiest of the three routes for most of the year.
Winter Driving Tips
- Use all-wheel drive or snow tires. The last 20 miles climb steadily, and a storm can turn 10 minutes into 30.
- Fill up before Route 4. Gas stations thin out near the mountain.
- Shop in Rutland on the way in. The grocery selection is much bigger there.
- Carry a scraper, a blanket and water. Phone service can drop in the mountains.
- Check parking before you book. Most rental driveways fit 3 or 4 cars.
No Car? Other Options
Amtrak’s Ethan Allen Express runs from New York Penn Station to Rutland, about 25 minutes from the mountain. Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport has a few daily flights to Boston.
Is It Worth the Extra Hour?
Compared with closer resorts, Killington gives you far more terrain, a longer season and a real après scene on Killington Road. For a 3-night trip, the drive pays for itself.
Killington Ski Haus is 5 minutes from the K-1 Base Lodge and has parking for 3 to 4 cars. It sleeps 16, so the whole carpool fits under one roof.
Also read: best skiing near NYC and how to plan a group ski trip to Killington.
Heading to southern Vermont instead? Stratton Ski Haus is a Nordic A-frame that sleeps 10, 10 minutes from Stratton Mountain. Browse all our Vermont guides.
