Skiing in Vermont, need advice

[tcufrog]

We are considering taking a road trip right after Christmas that will include a stop in Vermont to ski for a few days. My kids have skied a few times but it was well before Covid so I plan to sign them up for a private lesson before they are let loose on the slopes. Both my husband and I have experience skiing in NM and CO. Will the snow be any good and which resort do you recommend that we go to?

 

[PezRuth]

For families the best in Vermont is Smuggler's Notch. They have a wonderful ski school and lots of activities for families. Stowe is also very nice but you are going to pay more. We used to own a condo at Smugs and it is really great for families.

 

[lanejudy]

Where in Vermont? Southern, central, northern? Location could be a difference of 2-3 hours travel. If this is this a stop-off on your way to another destination you'd probably want to keep it fairly close to your route.

 

[#1hoosierfan]

We went to Killington several years ago and loved it. We stayed at the Killington Grand Resort. It is ski in and ski out. There are trails for all abilities and lessons are available.

 

[Minnie1222]

We go to Stratton because it's closest to us.

 

[HeatherC]

VT is great and has terrific skiing. That being said, I would probably say Killington because I believe they have the most snowmaking. December can be literally no snow and just a lot of bare ground. So as long as temps are cold enough, they will make it. My personal favorite spot is Stowe, VT but in December I would probably suggest Killington.

 

[amylevan]

The snow will likely not be CO quality, especially in December, but it can still be a great place to ski. Killington is probably your best bet in December snow-wise.

As noted, Smugglers Notch is known for being kid-friendly. There is a lot of non-ski programming there.

I am a fan of Stowe.

 

[TheIncredibles!]

I have been to both Killington and Jay's Peak a few times. Both are wonderful resorts.

 

[lanejudy]

Based on your other post, you are coming from Boston. I'd look at a map to see what is easiest to get to from your route I-93 primarily runs up through NH crossing in northeastern VT, I-91 runs north/south up the eastern side of VT and I-89 runs sort of diagonal southeast to northwest. Unfortunately, most of the VT ski resorts are not directly off the interstate. Stowe, Bolton, Mad River, maybe Sugarbush are fairly close off I-89 in central VT; Magic Mountain and Queeche (of I-91) and Saskadena Six (formerly Suicide Six) of I-89 are in southern VT. Along I-91 north of 89 are Northeast Slopes and Burke Mtn. Unfortunately, when coming from Boston, getting over to the Rutland area for Killington or Pico will add travel time. It's all 2-lane local roads and driving over/across the mountain ranges the run north/south up the center of the state.