The EastCoaster

By: Claire DeMarco 

With winter kicking it up in snow conditions in the Northeast, it is time to really get out there and ski! Check out our top five mountain recommendations for your next ski adventure this winter. 

1. Stowe 

The first of our winter ski destinations falls in my favorite place, truly the hidden gem of Northeast, Vermont. Stowe in Lamoille County, Vermont is home to the “Front Four,” which are the highest peaks in Vermont. In addition to Mount Mansfield, the tallest mountain in Vermont, the mountain offers challenging terrain and quick lifts. Besides just skiing, there is snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating, and a resort with a lodge, spa, and performing arts center!

2. Sugarbush 

Sugarbush is also located in Vermont, which has many of the same attractions as Stowe, but without the high expenses or crowded trails. The two mountains that make up the park, Mount Ellen and Lincoln Peak Village, are easily accessible through a high-speed detachable quad, which allows skiers to access the terrain and trails throughout the park easily. With fewer lodge amenities, there is still easy bus access to towns and local attractions. 

3. Whiteface 

Crediting its popularity to something much grander than spas or lifts is Whiteface Mountain. This mountain was home to two Winter Olympics. Understandably designed for more expert skiers, Whiteface Mountain in Lake Placid, New York offers the challenge of an Olympic-level track while also providing all the attractions that Lake Placid has to offer. Adding another claim to fame, Whiteface has the largest vertical drop on the East Coast!

4. Loon Mountain

A more friendly option for beginners and intermediates is Loon Mountain, located in Grafton County, New Hampshire. The most family-friendly mountain so far, it offers many lodging options for any family’s size and amenity needs. A short drive away from local towns for eating and shopping and only ten minutes from Sugarbush, Loon Mountain allows visitors to enjoy New Hampshire beyond just skiing. In addition to the three peaks at this park, there are also several snow tubing options at the park!

5. Blue Mountain

To round out our list, I had to include one of the amazing ski options in my home state of Pennsylvania. Far from the Olympic proportions in the northeast, Blue Mountain in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains provides a great option for intermediates and beginners. In addition, there are five terrain parks to choose from. To ensure the best experience each time, Blue Mountain has one of the largest snowmaking machines which allows for more use of the peaks. In addition to the skiing and snowboarding opportunities (including personal and group lessons), there are also snow tubing, sonic tubing, and lodging/dining options. 

Be sure to check out these five mountains this ski season!