They say ‘West Coast, best coast,’ but the East Coast shouldn’t be written off so easily. From Vermont’s powdery peaks to Maine’s expansive trails, the East Coast boasts some of the nation’s best slopes. Check them out.
Best East Coast Ski Resorts
1. Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe, Vermont
There’s much to be enjoyed on and off the slopes at Stowe Mountain Resort and throughout the town that shares its name. On the mountain, 116 trails and 12 lifts have made Stowe a New England favorite since the 1940s. Off the slopes, it only gets better. At its heart is a charming Main Street lined with locally-owned restaurants, boutiques, and cozy accommodations.
2. Killington Ski Resort
Killington, Vermont
Known as the “Beast of the East,” Killington Ski Resort in Vermont boasts the largest ski area in the eastern United States. With 155 trails spread over seven mountain areas and extensive snowmaking capabilities to complement their 250 inches of natural snowfall each winter, excellent conditions are nearly guaranteed throughout the season.
3. Sugarloaf Mountain
Carrabassett Valley, Maine
Sugarloaf Mountain is a true four-season destination. Spring and summer mean world-class golf, autumn means incredible leaf peeping, and winter – well, you guessed it – means some of the best skiing in the nation. Sugarloaf boasts 1,360 skiable acres and 176 trails and glades. Not a skier or snowboarder? There’s still plenty to enjoy at Sugarloaf including fat biking, ice skating, snowshoeing, and more.
4. Sunday River
Newry, Maine
Tucked away in the western mountains of Maine, Sunday River is known for its epic terrain, reliable snow, and laid-back vibe. But the resort’s real claim to fame? Variety. With eight interconnected mountain peaks, there’s no shortage of terrain to explore. From the groomed cruisers of North Peak to the steeps of White Cap, every run offers something different. And the East Coast may have a reputation for unpredictable winters, but Sunday River rewrites the script. Their legendary snowmaking system, one of the most advanced in the country, means prime conditions from early November through spring and into late-season skiing.
5. Whiteface Mountain
Wilmington, New York
When it comes to the best East Coast ski resorts, Whiteface Mountain is in a league of its own. Towering at 4,867 feet, it boasts the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies – 3,430 feet of pure adrenaline. As a 1980 Winter Olympics venue, it’s a mountain that’s tested the best. But with over 90 trails spanning 288 skiable acres, Whiteface has something for everyone. And from the summit, the views are breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Vermont and Canada. The icy expanse of Lake Champlain and the surrounding Adirondack is a view so good it’ll have you stopping mid-run just to soak it all in.
6. Smugglers’ Notch Resort
Jeffersonville, Vermont
Located in Vermont’s Green Mountains, Smugglers’ Notch Resort, affectionately known as “Smuggs,” blends incredible terrain with unbeatable family vibes. Skiers of all levels can explore three interconnected mountains, from Madonna’s legendary steeps to Morse’s beginner-friendly cruisers. Off the slopes, the award-winning Snow Sport University and activities like tubing and ice skating make it a family favorite.
7. Jay Peak Resort
Jay, Vermont
With over 350 inches of annual snowfall from the famed “Jay Cloud,” Jay Peak Resort is the snowiest resort in the East, delivering fresh tracks long after each storm. The terrain is equally epic, offering 80+ trails and renowned glade runs like “Valhalla” and “Everglade” that make it a tree-skiing mecca. Add in a 2,153-foot vertical drop and diverse runs for every style, and you’ve got a true skier’s playground. Off the slopes, the Pump House indoor waterpark keeps the fun going, while The Bullwheel’s laid-back après scene serves up local brews and mountain vibes.
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