Here’s how a good winter day plays out when you’re staying at the Haus and skiing Stratton.
6:30 AM
Step outside for a second. The air is sharp and cold. You can tell right away if it’s going to be a bluebird day.
7:00 AM
Brew coffee in the kitchen and watch the sunrise hit the snow-covered trees. Or stop at Ungrounded Coffee Roasters on Route 30 on your way to the mountain. It’s right on the route and their maple lattes are good.
7:45 AM
Load your skis. The drive to Stratton is about 7 minutes. Before you leave, toss your boots into the boot warmers. They’ll be dry and warm for tomorrow morning. Aim to arrive by 8:15 to beat the rush.
8:30 AM
First chair on the American Express six-pack. Ride to the summit. The trails are groomed, the air is cold, and you have the mountain to yourself for about an hour. Take Wanderer for your first run. It’s 3+ miles of uninterrupted cruising.
9:30 AM
Lap American Express or Shooting Star. Hit Upper Standard, Tamarack, or venture into steeper terrain on Upper Middlebrook. If it snowed overnight, check Kidderbrook. It faces north and holds powder longer.
11:30 AM
Switch to Sunrise Express on the far side. Lines are shorter mid-day. Black Bear and Upper Tamarack are both accessible from there.
12:30 PM
Lunch at Mid-Mountain Lodge. It’s smaller and quieter than the base lodge. There’s a deck with valley views if the sun is out. Chili, burgers, craft beer.
2:00 PM
Afternoon laps. Crowds thin as families head in. The snow has softened slightly and the runs feel different than they did at 8:30. Cruise Mike’s Way to Wanderer or go steeper.
4:30 PM
Après. Grizzly’s at the base has live music and energy. Fire Tower in the Village is calmer, with a stone fireplace and a maple bourbon cocktail that’s become a local go-to. We wrote a full après guide if you want more options.
8:00 PM
This is the part most rentals can’t offer. Step into the hot tub. The water is hot, the air is cold, your legs are tired. Follow it with a session in the barrel sauna. You’ll sleep better than you have in months.
9:30 PM
Before heading inside, look up. Jamaica sits in a low light-pollution valley. On a clear night, the Milky Way is visible. It’s the kind of thing you forget exists until you see it again.
10:00 PM
Bed. Legs sore in a good way. And those boot warmers have been running all evening. Tomorrow’s boots will be dry and warm for first chair.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Stratton Mountain open for skiing?
Lifts start at 8:30 AM. Arriving by 8:15 gives you time to park and gear up for first chair.
Does Stratton Ski Haus have boot warmers?
Yes. Three pairs of ski boot warmers in the heated mudroom. Leave your boots overnight and they’ll be dry and warm by morning.
Can you see the Milky Way from Stratton?
Yes. Jamaica, Vermont sits in a low light-pollution valley. On clear nights the Milky Way is visible from the Haus.
What is the best run at Stratton Mountain?
Wanderer is the longest at 3+ miles and great for morning warm-up laps. Kidderbrook holds powder on north-facing terrain.