Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in Vermont
Nestled in the Green Mountains just east of Burlington, Stowe has long been a magnet for winter sports enthusiasts seeking classic Vermont skiing and snowboarding. The Stowe Mountain Resort offers over 485 acres of skiable terrain, including the famous Mount Mansfield, which, at 4,393 feet, is Vermont’s highest peak. Skiers and snowboarders can tackle the challenging National trails or enjoy gentler slopes like the Spruce Line run. What sets Stowe apart is its quintessential New England charm: the historic Stowe village lies at the base, where quaint inns and cozy cafés welcome visitors after a day on the snow. The best time to visit is mid-winter when the mountain is blanketed in powder, and the cozy fireside lounges hum with apres-ski stories.
Further south, Killington Resort in central Vermont, about an hour’s drive southeast of Rutland, offers a sprawling winter playground with the largest ski area in the eastern U.S. Killington’s Peaks Resort boasts over 1,500 skiable acres and a vertical drop of 3,050 feet, providing varied terrain for beginners to experts. The resort is famous for its extensive snowmaking capabilities, which extend the ski season well into spring. Beyond the slopes, the Killington Village area buzzes with lively après-ski bars and eateries that keep the energy high well after sundown. Winter visitors often time their trips around the vibrant festivals and ski competitions that bring extra excitement to the mountain.
For those who prefer a more intimate and serene skiing experience, the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe offers a unique blend of Austrian heritage and Vermont wilderness just 10 minutes from downtown Stowe. Founded by the family that inspired “The Sound of Music,” the lodge features meticulously groomed cross-country skiing trails that wind through 2,500 acres of forested hills. The 62 kilometers of Nordic trails here vary in difficulty, making it ideal for both novices and seasoned cross-country skiers. The peaceful, snow-covered landscape is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in quiet winter beauty. Guests can also enjoy the lodge’s rustic Austrian-style cabins, complete with fireplaces and cozy décor, providing an authentic alpine retreat.
For a family-friendly mountain experience without the bustle of larger resorts, Bolton Valley, located about 30 minutes southeast of Burlington, offers gentle slopes and a welcoming atmosphere. Its 71 trails are spread across two peaks, and the resort is favored for its consistent snow conditions and well-maintained beginner areas. Many visitors appreciate the small-town Vermont charm of Bolton, where the skiing is complemented by scenic winter hiking and snowshoeing along the nearby Long Trail—a legendary 272-mile path that traverses the state. Winter afternoons here often end with hot chocolate in the lodge’s panoramic dining room, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of the snow-dusted valley below.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Vermont’s winter magic is captured in the cozy mountain towns dotted with rustic cabins and lodges. In Middlebury, about 45 minutes south of Burlington, the Middlebury College Snow Bowl offers a classic New England ski hill paired with charming accommodations. Nearby, the historic town of Middlebury provides a quintessential Vermont experience with its brick storefronts, artisan shops, and farm-to-table restaurants. Visitors often stay in hand-crafted timber-frame cabins nestled in the surrounding hills, where wood-burning stoves and thick wool blankets evoke a timeless winter sanctuary. The region’s peaceful snowfalls and crisp air make it a favorite spot for slowing down and savoring the quiet of a Vermont winter.
For a truly off-the-grid escape, the Breadloaf Wilderness area near Ripton, about an hour south of Middlebury, invites adventurous souls to explore backcountry winter trails. Though not a ski resort, the region offers challenging snowshoeing and backcountry skiing opportunities amid vast tracts of untouched forest. The area is renowned for its wildlife sightings, including moose and fox tracks glistening in the snow. After a day navigating the wilderness, visitors often retreat to nearby inns or cabins that emphasize sustainable living, deepening the connection to Vermont’s pristine winter landscape. Late afternoon light here sparkles on ice-crusted branches, creating a magical scene far from the crowds.
In the Northeast Kingdom, around 90 minutes northeast of Montpelier, Jay Peak Resort claims a special place in Vermont’s winter scene, especially for its reliable snowfall and challenging terrain. The resort’s 385 skiable acres include some of the steepest runs in the state, with expert trails like the Face of Jay demanding skill and daring. Jay Peak also boasts an acclaimed indoor waterpark, perfect for warming up after a chilly day on the slopes. The resort’s location near the Canadian border means it often enjoys some of the best natural snow in the region. Visitors appreciate the authentic Vermont feel of the nearby village, where rustic lodges and cozy cabins offer fireside comfort in the heart of a snowy wilderness.
Whether carving fresh powder on world-class mountains or curling up by a crackling fire in a wooden cabin, Vermont’s winter offerings blend thrilling outdoor adventure with intimate moments of warmth and quiet. From the towering peaks near Burlington to the remote trails of the Northeast Kingdom, every corner of the state invites visitors to experience the season in a way that feels both timeless and deeply connected to the land. The crisp air, snow-laden evergreens, and welcoming mountain communities ensure that winter in Vermont is an adventure to savor long after the snow melts.