Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+
Sign up for Outside+ today.
For those looking to focus on skiing without the frills of a large resort, check out SKI’s top 10 skiers mountains in the East. Looking at the terrain, snow, challenge, lifts, and value, these resorts will get you the most bang for your buck while shredding some of the best terrain the East Coast has to offer.
1. Killington, Vt.
The sheer breadth of terrain at Killington keeps diehards coming back for more.Photo Credit: Justin Cash
Two Sugarbush locals ripping through the freshies. Photo courtesy of Sugarbush/John Atkinson
“Sugarbush is one of the last mountains out there sustaining the charm that keeps me coming back to their spot. When I go skiing, I want free parking, few crowds, varied terrain, beautiful views, friendly staff and a low-key place to rest my legs and drink a beer at the end of the day. This is Sugarbush.”
Even experts are challenged in the versatile terrain of Smugglers’ Notch.Photo courtesy of Smugglers’ Notch
“Best all-around terrain in the Northeast with extreme skiing for experts and beginner skiing cleverly separated on three mountains which avoids overcrowding and mid-matched slopes with skier ability. The lifts are old school but provide a much-needed break from top to bottom runs.”
Mad River Glen: Ski it if you can! Photo credit: Jeb Wallace-Brodeur
“Mad River Glen needs to be on every serious skiers bucket list. Incredible woods, steeps, and the lowest skier density you will find on any mountain. What it lacks in modern amenities, it makes up for in unique charm and old-school feel.”
