Eastern U.S. ski resorts
Ski Resorts in the Eastern United States
The Eastern United States is a treasure trove of ski resorts, perfect for both first-timers and seasoned pros. Iconic spots like Stowe, Killington, Sunday River, Okemo and Sugarloaf offer a unique flavor you won't find anywhere else. Picture winding trails through snow-dusted forests, quaint mountain times brimming with charm and cozy vibes. From Vermont’s legendary slopes to the stunning ridgelines of New Hampshire, skiing and riding in the East blends tradition, family-friendly fun and an abundance of hidden gems. The peaks may not be the tallest, but it’s got the soul of winter. Let our Mountain Travel Experts help you explore this iconic region.
Explore Our Eastern U.S. Resorts
Top ski resorts in Maine
Top ski resorts in Michigan
Top ski resorts in New Hampshire
Top ski resorts in New York
Top ski resorts in Vermont
THE BEST SKI RESORTS ON THE EAST COAST ACCORDING TO SKI.COM'S MOUNTAIN TRAVEL EXPERTS
Killington Ski Resort
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Dubbed "The Beast of the East," Killington is the premier ski resort in the Eastern U.S., offering over 1,500 acres of terrain and the largest vertical drop in New England. With the longest ski season around, it caters to every skill level with trails for all abilities. Want to skip lift lines? The “Fast Track” pass lets you jump straight to the slopes, perfect for popular powder days. The mountain is renowned for it's award-winning learning programs, where you can even join Olympic Gold Medalist Donna Weinbrecht to refine your skills. For the non-skiers or riders, enjoy snowcat rides, snowmobiling, the Beast Mountain Coaster and a buzzing après-ski scene filled with live music and great eats.
Highlights: Largest vertical drop in New England, fun and playful terrain parks, terrain for all levels and snow camps and lessons focused on a wide range of skills.
Closest airport: Rutland Regional Airport (RUT) - 22 miles (35 minutes)
Okemo Mountain Resort
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont is a haven for ski enthusiasts, offering 667 acres of meticulously groomed terrain across 121 trails, catering to all skill levels. Whether cruising wide-open groomers, learning the basics or tackling steeper runs, Okemo’s top-notch conditions and extensive snowmaking make it a standout in the East. Okemo isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality. The resort’s delivers quality skiing for every ability, backed by slopeside lodging that gets you on the mountain early. Off the slopes, enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, and the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster. Perfect for family reunions, weddings or group getaways, Okemo blends world-class skiing with fun for all.
Highlights: Top-tier grooming standards, multiple terrain parks designed to cater to all skill levels, slopeside lodging options that allow guests to maximize their time on the mountain and the Timber Ripper Mountain Coaster.
Closest airport: Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport (RUT) - 18 miles (30 minutes)
Stowe Ski Resort
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Known as the “Ski Capital of the East,” Stowe blends small-town charm, world-class hospitality, and rich history. Nestled between Mt. Mansfield—Vermont’s highest peak with expert terrain—and family-friendly Spruce Peak, these two mountains are connected by a gondola for easy access. With 300 inches of annual snowfall and a skiable elevation of 3,625 feet, Stowe delivers top-notch conditions for East Coast skiing and riding. Named one of America’s top 10 small towns, Stowe offers year-round beauty, from its charming village to activities at Spruce Peak Village. For family fun, cozy vibes and exceptional skiing, Stowe is unmatched.
Highlights: 485 acres of skiable terrain with 16% beginner, 55% intermediate, and 29% advanced terrain, New England mountain charm, friendly locals
Closest airport: Burlington International Airport (BTV) - 33 miles (45 minutes)
Sugarloaf Ski Resort
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: If New England skiing is on your radar, let our Mountain Travel Experts at Ski.com guide you to Sugarloaf Ski Resort in Maine—an East Coast favortie. Boasting the largest skiable terrain east of the Rockies, Sugarloaf offers 1,240 acres of slopes for all levels, from easy beginner runs to adrenaline-pumping descents like White Nitro. Its exclusive “Snowfields” area, the only lift-serviced, above-treeline skiing in the East, offers wide-open runs and stunning views—a must for advanced skiers.
Highlights: The largest contiguous skiable terrain in the Eastern U.S., the only lift-serviced, above-treeline skiing on the East Coast, an extensive vertical drop of 2,820 feet and hosts numerous events, festivals and live music throughout the season.
Closest airport: Augusta State Airport (AUG) - 90 miles (2 hours) or Boston Logan International (BOS) - 250 miles (4 hours)
Sunday River Resort
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Sunday River Resort in Maine offers thrilling ski adventures across eight interconnected peaks and 870 acres of diverse terrain. It’s a favorite of our Mountain Travel Experts, with something for everyone—from White Heat—often hailed the "steepest, longest lift-serviced trail in the East" to gentle beginner slopes and scenic cruisers. With a summit at 3,140 feet and 95% snowmaking coverage, Sunday River ensures great conditions all season long. Off the slopes, enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, twilight skiing, or a unique après-ski experience at the Alepeniglu, an igloo where you can unwind with friends.
Highlights: Family-friendly mountain, diverse terrain, Alpeniglu cat-ski adventure and night skiing
Closest airport: Portland International Jetport (PWM) - 70 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)
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