Top 10 Resorts in the East for Snow
According to the results of SKI's annual Reader Resort survey, these resorts have the best snow conditions in the East.
What’s best about Loon is what’s most challenging too: Remarkably easy access means some pretty impressive crowds on weekends. Thankfully, Loon makes snowmaking and impeccable grooming a priority to keep conditions spiffy even on the busiest of days.
On mountain, intermediate groomers rule. You can find your bliss winding down Upper Walking Boss on North Peak (be ready to stop for an “aha” moment and selfie when you spot Mount Washington). Over at South Peak you’ll find thinner crowds, fast-moving lifts, and a nice variety of terrain. To experience Loon at its best, join the locals midweek when the trails are wide open and lines almost nonexistent.
Other than crowds, the most nagging critique of Loon is aimed at its base area, which, truth be told, could use some upgrades. Though Loon skiers are desperate for a new base lodge (or two), there are no plans for updates as of now. There are, however, some great food choices in those somewhat dated buildings—just try to beat the egg sandwich on the menu of the Governor Adams Lodge. – Moira McCarthy
Average Snowfall | Acres | Lifts | Trails |
160″ | 370 | 12 | 61 |
Loon is on the Ikon Pass and the New England Pass. Ikon Pass holders get 7 days at the mountains. Ikon Base Pass holders get 5 blackout-restricted days. The New England Pass gets skiers access to Loon, Sunday River, and Sugarloaf with varying levels of access.
From lodging and and dining to off-slope activities and local tips, here are the SKI editors’ picks for what to do in Loon Mountain, N.H.
Park at South Peak to start your day skiing on parts of the resort where you’ll find more sun, wide cruisers, and fewer crowds.
Snowshoe along the resort’s summer bike trails with a guide, or ride up the gondola and shoe from summit to summit, taking in amazing views.
Head to Flapjack’s Pancake House; the made-from-scratch pancakes are decadent, and a model train circles above, for added fun.
Take a guided summit snowshoe tour, go snow tubing, or—get this—zipline across the Pemigewasset River, even in the dead of winter.
Camp III at the base has a lumberjack feel and hearty fare to match it. Try the pulled pork sandwich (secret recipe) on the deck: The best sunny day spot on the mountain.
Stop by the Paul Bunyan Room, especially during football season and the annual ’80s party. It’s a hoot.
The oft-overlooked in winter J.E. Henry Railroad at the base. A classic steam-powered, wood-fired train that takes you between lodges. Kitchy, yes, but cool and fun for all ages.
According to the results of SKI's annual Reader Resort survey, these resorts have the best snow conditions in the East.
These resorts have the most convenient and comfortable beds in the East.
The votes from SKI's 2023 Reader Resort Survey are in: these Eastern resorts are the best in the grooming department.
There are now seven destinations that will require reservations in hopes of preserving the ski experience.
When time is short, getting there fast is everything. These 10 Eastern resorts are the easiest to get to according to 2022 Resort Survey.
The masses have spoken and these are the 20 top-scoring resorts in the East according to our 2022 Reader Resort Survey.
A slew of resorts hop on the Ikon Pass and more days are added for Northeast ski areas.
The beauty of the White Mountains never disappoints at the gateway resorts of Franconia Notch.
Find your ski pass for next season—and the best deals—here.
No matter your pleasure, these three ski areas are within about 2 hours from Boston Logan airport.
Check out these 2013/14 pass deals that will save you money and get you skiing.
Check out Moira McCarthy's author page.
Snow guns are turned back on at Sugarloaf, Sunday River and Loon—because spring skiing should be a right, not a privilege.
A great place to satisfy your inner carnivore
A great family resort adjacent Loon Mountain
Loon's premier ski-in/ski-out hotel and lodge
Find everything from the September issue here: 2009 Buyers Guide, Tahoe Weekends, Deep Aspen, Charms of Woodstock, and more.
Check out SkiMag.com Editors's author page.
A White Mountain beauty heralds the Northeast's largest expansion in almost a quarter-century.
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