The Best Ski Resorts in Vermont

Looking for Vermont's top ski destinations? Our unbiased overall resort rankings showcase the best mountains based solely on authentic feedback from the Snomad community. We've crunched thousands of ratings from real skiers and snowboarders who've experienced these slopes firsthand. Only resorts with sufficient user feedback make the cut, ensuring you get reliable insights before planning your next powder adventure. Ridden these mountains yourself? Share your thoughts and help fellow snow enthusiasts by leaving a review.

Want to dig deeper into Vermont's ski scene? Check out our specialised rankings for Tree Skiing, Powder Zones and Off-Piste opportunities across the Green Mountain State.

Best Ski Resort in Vermont: Smugglers' Notch Resort - Overall Rating Rating 4.53

Smugglers' Notch is a hidden gem that locals swear by. One Snomad community member liked that despite having slow lifts, the incredible terrain more than makes up for it. The resort shines with its exceptional tree skiing, which many users claim is the best in the Northeast. It's brilliantly family-friendly with a ski school that consistently receives praise - as one user who's been visiting for 20+ years put it, "by far the best family resort there is." While the après scene isn't its strongest point, the quiet slopes and free parking add to its authentic Vermont charm that keeps skiers coming back year after year.

#2 Jay Peak - Overall Rating Rating 4.51

Jay Peak is a powder paradise in the East, with our users consistently raving about its legendary tree skiing and glades. The mountain benefits from the famous "Jay Cloud," which dumps more snow here than anywhere else in the region. As Michael, an advanced snowboarder, says: "The glades are like no other, and on snow days, there's feet upon feet of snow through the woods." Despite some mentions of occasionally slow lifts, the relaxed, friendly atmosphere keeps skiers coming back. Perfect for powder hounds and families alike, with a water park and other activities for non-skiers. Most agree it's well worth the extra drive for fewer crowds and better snow.

#3 Sugarbush - Overall Rating Rating 4.50

Sugarbush packs a powerful punch for East Coast skiing. Our reviewers mention that while it can be icy at times, the resort makes the most of what they've got with outstanding grooming. The two mountains - Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen - offer varied terrain that keeps things interesting, from expert-level tree runs to family-friendly groomers. A Snomad community member liked the "blend of old and new with legendary runs and pure Vermont classic charm." When it's not a holiday weekend, the slopes remain relatively uncrowded with efficient lift systems keeping queues short. The Castle Rock area offers some of the most intense in-bounds terrain on the East Coast.