Where to Ski in the Northeast: A Regional Guide
Planning a winter getaway in the Northeast is all about location, and choosing the right homebase can make the entire trip better. When you make a Red Cottage stay your homebase, you get the comfort of a private retreat with easy access to some of the best places to ski in the Northeast. From ski areas near New York and the Poconos, beginner friendly trails in Western Mass and Connecticut to classic mountain towns in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, the Northeast offers a wide range of skiing experiences for every skill level. Whether you’re planning a weekend ski trip, a family winter vacation, or a longer mountain escape, these are the top places to ski across the region.
New York & the Poconos (PA): Accessible and Beginner-Friendly
If you’re skiing from New York City, northern New Jersey, or eastern Pennsylvania, this is one of the easiest regions for a Northeast ski trip, especially for weekend getaways.
Why ski in NY & PA:
Close to major cities (ideal for short trips)
Reliable snowmaking for more consistent conditions
A strong mix of beginner and intermediate trails
Where to ski:
Hunter Mountain (NY): A top pick for skiing near NYC, with steeper runs and a lively after-ski scene
Windham Mountain (NY): A polished, family-friendly option with a comfortable, easygoing vibe
Belleayre Mountain (NY): A solid choice for Catskills skiing, offering well-groomed trails, dependable snowmaking, and a relaxed, less crowded atmosphere
Plattekill Mountain (NY): A favorite for locals, known for natural snow, and classic terrain
Catamount Mountain(NY): A unique place to ski on the New York and Massachusetts border, offering long runs, varied terrain, and a convenient option for skiers coming from both the Hudson Valley and western Massachusetts
Camelback Mountain (PA) & Blue Mountain (PA): Great choices for Poconos skiing, especially for first-timers and weekend trips
Ski Big Bear (PA): A convenient option for Poconos skiing, especially for beginners and families, with reliable snowmaking and easy-access terrain
Best for: Beginners, casual skiers, and quick getaways (day trips or weekends)
Vermont: The Heart of Northeast Skiing
Vermont is often considered the best place to ski in the Northeast, thanks to its mix of big-mountain terrain, reliable winter conditions, and classic ski towns that make a trip feel like a true getaway.
Why ski in Vermont:
Some of the largest ski areas and trail networks in the Northeast
Consistent snowfall (plus strong snowmaking) for dependable winter conditions
Iconic Vermont mountain towns and a fun after-ski scene
Where to ski:
Stowe Mountain: One of the most scenic places to ski in all of Vermont, with a polished vibe and challenging terrain
Killington Peak: Famous for one of the longest ski seasons in the East and huge variety for all levels
Sugarbush(Mt Abraham): A classic Vermont ski experience with advanced trails and a laid-back New England feel
Jay Peak Mountain: Known for deep snowfall and standout glade skiing for confident skiers and riders
Best for: All skill levels but especially intermediate to advanced skiers
Maine: Quiet, Snowy, and Underrated
Maine is one of the most underrated places to ski in the Northeast, offering a true winter feel, fewer crowds, and a big-mountain experience that’s hard to beat if you’re willing to drive a bit farther north.
Why ski in Maine:
Reliable snow and colder temperatures that help keep conditions consistent
Less crowded slopes, even on many weekends
A big-mountain feel with long runs and plenty of terrain to explore
Where to ski:
Sunday River Mountain: One of the largest places to ski in the East, with a huge trail network that works well for mixed-skill groups
Sugarloaf Mountain: A top choice for advanced skiers, known for serious terrain and above-treeline skiing when conditions allow
Saddleback Mountain: A revived classic with a more local vibe, plus great terrain without the bustle
Best for: Experienced skiers and anyone looking for a quieter mountain escape
Heads-up: It’s typically a longer drive than other Northeast ski areas—but the snow, space, and scenery make it worth it
New Hampshire: Small State, Big Terrain
New Hampshire delivers some of the best skiing in the Northeast within a compact area, especially in the White Mountains, making it a great choice for skiers who want strong terrain without long travel times.
Why ski in New Hampshire:
Steep, technical terrain that appeals to confident skiers
Shorter drive times compared to Vermont or Maine
A strong mix of modern ski areas and classic New England mountains
Where to ski in New Hampshire
Cannon Mountain: Known for challenging, no-frills skiing and classic White Mountain terrain
Loon Mountain: A popular option for accessible skiing with modern lifts and varied trails
Bretton Woods: Wide, groomed trails that are great for families and relaxed ski days
Waterville Valley: A well-balanced place to ski with lighter crowds and terrain for multiple skill levels
Best for: Intermediate to advanced skiers who want efficient travel and high-quality terrain
Western Massachusetts and Connecticut: Easy Access Skiing
If you’re skiing in the western parts of Massachusetts and Connecticut, this region is a great option for easy day trips and low-key winter escapes, especially if you’re looking to avoid longer drives north.
Why ski in MA & CT:
Convenient access from the Hudson Valley, western New England, and nearby cities
A relaxed pace that’s ideal for learning and progressing
Smaller mountains that make for stress-free ski days
Where to ski (Western MA + Western CT)
Ski Butternut (MA): A beginner-friendly place to ski with wide trails and a welcoming atmosphere
Catamount Mountain (MA/NY): Known for longer runs and varied terrain, making it a solid step up for intermediate skiers
Mohawk Mountain (CT): One of the top places to ski in western Connecticut for families and first-timers
Best for: Beginners, families, and anyone looking for an easy, no-rush ski day close to home
Wrap up your Northeast ski trip with the right mix of great terrain and a comfortable place to come back to. From easy day trips near New York City and the Poconos, beginner friendly skiing in Western Mass and Connecticut, to classic skiing in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, there are plenty of memorable places to ski for every level. Make a Red Cottage stay your homebase so you can spend more time on the mountain and more time relaxing after a full day in the snow.
