Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
After powder skiing and laying trenches on fresh corduroy, we’d argue that après-ski is the best part of the day. Huddling up with friends and family to reminisce about the day, and of course, enjoying the pure pleasure of those unbuckled ski boots. Does it get any better?
See the Full Rankings: The Top 20 Resorts in the East for 2024
Here is a list of the 10 best resorts in the East for apres-ski, voted by fellow readers in SKI’s annual Reader Resort Survey as the best places to wind down a ski day in style.
Top 10 Resorts for Après-Ski in the East
No. 10: Loon Mountain, N.H.
Score: 7.23
Other Strengths: Lifts, Access
Weaknesses: Terrain Variety, Value
What Readers Say
“It’s a great family mountain because it’s large enough but not too large, great lifts and great snowmaking.”
“Loon Mountain is for anyone who likes to ski, there is enough variety in terrain to please the beginner and expert.”
No. 9: Seven Springs, Pa.
Score: 7.25
Other Strengths: Nightlife, Parking
Weaknesses: Snow, Lifts
What Readers Say
“[Best for] families. Great little mountain with a lot to offer both on and off snow.”
“They do a nice job of making snow and grooming whenever they can.”
No. 8: Stowe Mountain Resort, Vt.
Score: 7.44
Other Strengths: Lodging, Nightlife
Weaknesses: Snow, Grooming
What Readers Say
“Stowe continues to be the best ski experience in the East, and is only getting better.”
“I love the mountain and the town. It’s like skiing a part of history. The iconic Front Four will take your breath away, and a rip down Nosedive is the true definition of freedom. Afterward, grabbing a pizza and a draft at the Matterhorn makes the day complete.”
No. 7: Bretton Woods, N.H.
Score: 7.54
Other Strengths: Snow, Grooming
Weaknesses: Challenge, Nightlife
What Readers Say
“Such a variety of trails. The people there are amazing. Always helpful. Food is spectacular and not very expensive.”
“Friendly People, stunning views, the best we’ve skied, we’ll be back.”
No. 6: Sugarloaf Resort, Maine
Score: 7.59
Other Strengths: Terrain Variety, Challenge
Weaknesses: Access, Family Friendly
What Readers Say
“Great vibe and a great variety of terrain and food.”
“Love this mountain. Would recommend it to everyone. Great ski school for kids, something for everyone, individual and families alike, hardcore or beginner.”
No. 5: Wachusett Mountain, Mass.
Score: 7.81
Other Strengths: Snow, Access
Weaknesses: Terrain Variety, Lodging
What Readers Say
“So welcoming, always friendly and helpful, enjoyable outdoor après ski.”
“Wachusett Mountain is one hour or less from Greater Boston with great beginner to expert terrain and night skiing for all, especially families. The snowmaking and grooming are as good or better than anyone up north. They have great and reasonably priced food and drinks for all tastes. This along with friendly and helpful staff in all areas is the place I have loved to ski in Massachusetts for many years with my family.”
No. 4: Mont Tremblant, Que.
Score: 8.43
Other Strengths: Dining, Lodging
Weaknesses: Grooming, Value
What Readers Say
“European flavor with friendly Canadians. Good size, and a mountain with great snow-making – best in the east! Food is mostly good but expensive. Plenty of non-ski activities for families.”
“Variety of terrain and ski in ski out lodging. Beautiful Village with all the amenities that is easily accessible.”
No. 3: Killington Resort, Vt.
Score: 8.55
Other Strengths: Lifts, Nightlife
Weaknesses: Family Friendly, Value
What Readers Say
“I have skied here for over 40 years and have always loved the variety of trails and the MANY improvements made over the years. I like the après ski choices. Meeting old friends and making new ones. Skiers are great people.”
“[Mountain is good for] advanced and experts. Those that want the full ski day experience from the first chair to après .”
No. 2: Mad River Glen, Vt.
Score: 8.57
Other Strengths: Terrain Variety, Challenge
Weaknesses: Grooming, Lodging
What Readers Say
“The terrain, people, and overall experience make this the best mountain in the east. When there is snow, nowhere else in New England can compare.”
“This place is the soul of skiing and the best beer.”
No. 1: Holiday Valley, N.Y.
Score: 9.05
Other Strengths: Lifts, Dining
Weaknesses: Snow, Challenge
What Readers Say
“Friendly staff. Family atmosphere. Great lift system, lodges, and snowmaking. Ellicottville après ski scene is comparable to the best in Colorado and Utah.”
“As for Ellicottville (‘the Aspen of the East’), it’s a great complement to the resort with multiple dining and après-ski activities. Yes, it’s nice to ski some of the bigger mountains but Holiday Valley will always be my home resort. Their motto is ‘It’s Just Fun’ and I couldn’t agree more.”