Killington rewards a plan. It is the largest ski area in the East, with six peaks, a 3,050 foot vertical drop and more than 200 trails when you add Pico. This weekend plan keeps a group moving and gets everyone to dinner on time.
Friday: Arrive and Settle In
Leave early. Route 4 backs up after 6 PM on holiday weekends, and the last stretch into Killington is dark and winding. Shop for groceries in Rutland on the way, since the selection beats the stores on the mountain.
Pick up rentals and lift tickets the night before if you can. Buying tickets online at least a week ahead saves real money with Killington’s dynamic pricing.
Saturday: Big Mountain Day
- 8:15 AM: Load the K-1 Express Gondola early. Lines build fast after 9.
- Morning: Warm up on the groomers off North Ridge and K-1, then work over to Skye Peak.
- Lunch: Peak Lodge at the top of the gondola has the best view on the mountain. Go at 11:30 to beat the rush.
- Afternoon: Strong skiers head to Bear Mountain and Outer Limits for moguls. Mixed groups stay on Ramshead and Snowshed.
- 3:30 PM: Après on Killington Road, or straight home to the hot tub.
Saturday Night
Reserve dinner days ahead for groups of 8 or more. Casey’s Caboose, Sushi Yoshi and The Garlic all fill up on Saturdays. The Wobbly Barn and the Pickle Barrel run live music late.
Sunday: Ski Pico or Hit Superstar
Your Killington ticket also works at Pico, a smaller mountain a few minutes down Route 4. It is quieter on Sundays and a nice change of pace. If you stay at Killington, ski Superstar in the morning while the snow is still firm and fast.
Check out of the slopes by 1 PM. You will miss the worst of the Sunday traffic south.
Tips That Save the Weekend
- Pick one meeting spot and one time for lunch. A 16-person group chat is not a plan.
- Boot warmers and a gear room keep mornings fast.
- Cook breakfast and one dinner at home. It cuts costs and keeps the group together.
- Bring firewood. Most rentals do not supply it.
Base Camp for the Weekend
Killington Ski Haus sleeps 16 in two private units, 5 minutes from the K-1 Base Lodge and 2 minutes from Killington Road. Each unit has its own kitchen and living room, so two families can share a weekend without sharing every bathroom.
Next read: where to stay near Killington for large groups.
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.
