If you are a skiing enthusiast who lives on the East Coast or plans to visit the region, you might be wondering which ski resort is the biggest and offers the best skiing experience. Well, look no further than Killington Resort in Vermont.
Located in central Vermont, Killington Resort is the largest ski resort on the East Coast, boasting 155 trails across seven interconnected mountains. With a vertical drop of 3,050 feet and 22 lifts, including two express gondolas and three high-speed quads, Killington is a skier’s paradise.
But what makes Killington stand out from other ski resorts on the East Coast? For starters, it has one of the longest ski seasons in the region, opening as early as October and staying open until May or even June if conditions allow.
Additionally, Killington’s terrain is diverse and caters to all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy gentle slopes while advanced skiers can challenge themselves with double black diamond runs.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Killington Resort such a special destination for skiers:
The Terrain
Killington’s terrain spans across seven interconnected peaks: Ramshead, Snowdon, Skye Peak, Sunrise Mountain, Bear Mountain, and two peaks named after their elevation – K-1 and Pico. Here’s a breakdown of each peak:
Ramshead:
Ramshead is an excellent place for beginners to learn how to ski or snowboard with its gentle slopes and magic carpet lifts.
Snowdon:
Snowdon has a mix of beginner to advanced terrain but is best known for its intermediate trails that run from top to bottom without interruption.
Skye Peak:
Skye Peak offers intermediate terrain with some steeper pitches towards its summit.
Sunrise Mountain:
Sunrise Mountain has long blue square runs with stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Bear Mountain:
Bear Mountain is known for its advanced terrain, including mogul runs, glades, and terrain parks.
K-1 Peak:
K-1 Peak has the highest elevation and offers a mix of intermediate and advanced terrain. The K-1 Express Gondola provides quick access to the summit.
Pico Peak:
Pico Peak is a smaller mountain that offers an excellent alternative to Killington’s larger crowds. It has 57 trails, mostly intermediate and beginner terrain.
The Skiing Experience
Killington Resort offers a wide range of skiing experiences that cater to all levels of skiers. Some highlights include:
The Beast:
The Beast is one of Killington’s most popular trails, running from the summit of K-1 peak to its base area. It’s over six miles long and has a vertical drop of 3,050 feet.
The Glades:
Killington has over 70 acres of gladed terrain where skiers can experience skiing through the trees. Bear Mountain is especially renowned for its glade skiing.
The Terrain Parks:
Killington Resort has six terrain parks that cater to riders of all abilities. Features include jumps, rails, boxes, and more.
The Après-Ski Scene
After a long day on the slopes, Killington offers plenty of après-ski options to relax and unwind. Here are some popular options:
Wobbly Barn:
The Wobbly Barn is a legendary après-ski spot that features live music, drinks, and hearty food options.
Casey’s Caboose:
Casey’s Caboose is another popular après-ski spot that offers a cozy atmosphere, craft beer, and delicious food.
The Foundry:
The Foundry is a newer addition to Killington’s après-ski scene. It’s a gastropub that specializes in craft cocktails and locally sourced food.
In conclusion, Killington Resort is the biggest ski resort on the East Coast for a reason. Its vast terrain, diverse skiing experiences, and lively après-ski scene make it a must-visit destination for skiers of all levels.
So pack your bags, grab your skis or snowboard, and get ready for the ultimate skiing experience at Killington Resort!