Vermont Ski Resorts RANKED - Worst to Best

[@PeakRankings]

Hey all! For whatever reason, chapters are not showing up in this video, despite being in the description. If you want to jump to certain resorts, here are the timestamps: 0:00 Intro 0:51 13th in Vermont 2:01 12th in Vermont 3:31 11th in Vermont 4:41 10th in Vermont 6:24 9th in Vermont 7:52 8th in Vermont 9:19 7th in Vermont 11:07 6th in Vermont 13:01 5th in Vermont 14:36 4th in Vermont 16:09 3rd in Vermont 17:41 2nd in Vermont 18:59 1st in Vermont 20:31 Conclusion And if we missed something very obvious that's disabling chapters for this video, please let us know 😅 Also, CORRECTION: Sugarbush and Stratton are UNLIMITED on the Ikon full and Base passes, not 7/5-day access partners.

[@saturatedodin476]

Killington above Stowe is just crazy.

[@shawn-j3h]

your chart at the end lists smugglers notch as having only 2 lifts but it actually has considerably more than that.

[@0xCUBE]

pico is criminally underrated, and that's by design. The longest I ever waited in line there was 3 minutes, and that was on a 17 inch powder day saturday after getting 40 inches that week.

[@bobl6139]

But only open on weekends which rules many out

[@zsreich]

@@bobl6139 Pico is actually only closed Tuesday and Wednesday, and will be open 7 days a week during peak periods. You can shred Monday, Thursday and Friday as well as weekend.

[@zsreich]

Pico used to be independent but is now part of killington. It was one of the first in the game, opening for commercial skiing in 1938 and I love it there as well, especially on days when killington is saturated with customers.

[@theGoonofDominion]

The other crazy thing about Pico is you can ski over to Killington (with a Killington tick/pass) and take the shuttle back at the end of the day not something id recommend for a new comer but cool for a local.

[@ttruong225]

Are Pico lift tickets cheaper than Killington’s or is it just the same? I feel like someone traveling to ski would just go to Killington and it’s mainly locals that go to Pico on weekends when Killington is crowded.

[@noahbeach7776]

Smugglers notch true strengths lie in their back country which has some of the best woods skiing you can find, and the unmarked trails, if you plan a trip to smuggs I strongly recommend to find a local to show you the best trails

[@PaleCentaur]

I was so mad at myself the year I had a pass for Smuggs, and I spent the whole season only riding groomed trails and constantly being disappointed; then, in the last 2 weeks of the season, I finally tried the woods and realized why everyone I know speaks so highly of it.

[@revalantt]

@@PaleCentaur yes it’s the best part

[@sam_ac_smith]

I haven't been in the backcountry, but the Shakedown trees are my favorite in the state.

[@jonathanschadenfreude9603]

I'm a telemarker......Shhh we dont want to end up like mansfield lmaop

[@Yahda7]

Yes.

[@mikesweet5848]

I'm extremely fortunate to have skied all these mountains. Can't really comment on the rankings because we're all looking for something a bit different. However, I got a serious sense of nostalgia watching this and thinking about my experiences at each mountain.

[@susieasado6675]

Great video! I am consistently impressed with Sam’s ability to remain composed while skiing the craziest expert terrain. I would love to see a similar video ranking Quebec ski areas.

[@josephheissler9424]

After 15 years skiing/riding the east from northern NJ, this is the best overview and ranking I have seen

[@dashtheautoman]

This list is ass backwards. But go ahead, be a Sterotype and go to the garbage corporate places. Go waste your money standing in line. Great idea. Definitely don't go to Magic. Stay outta my stash.

[@josephheissler9424]

@ that’s why I moved to Western CO. Zero lift lines and massive inbounds and hike-to terrain for levels 1-9 skiers & riders at T-ride

[@sidski2021]

I am happy and thankful I learned to ski in Vermont. Once you learn how to ski there, you can ski everywhere.

[@chingscott00]

Correct

[@humanbeing2420]

But it's difficult to get good at skiing in crud and powder in Vermont, because there almost never is any of that.

[@ryeetbanana3505]

@@humanbeing2420 go to jay peak

[@taylordw]

@sidski2021 👍i coached jrs. in upstate NY in the 80’s. Our best kids got almost completely smoked by the VT kids every time

[@ThatGardener]

Hhha try the icy krap mountains in ny you will die in 10 mins sucker 😂😂😂

[@robbieevans6536]

Used to ski pro , and my favorite East Coast ski resort is definitely Bolton Valley...Fun terrain, and they have "The Big Rock" where you can send it...I highly recommend this mountain....Good for families too!

[@itsmeforsure5475]

We stay in Stowe and go to BV. Its cheaper and the terrain/lift/lodge are good. I would like to see bubble lifts but you can't get too greedy. For novice skiers in the area, I would recommend BV over stowe.

[@marcusteblano6376]

I had an epic powder day at Bolton in the middle of December, (a few weeks ago)- untracked deep powder all day in the woods off of the Vista lift. Best early season skiing I've had. Unfortunately the rains came and took much of it away.

[@PaleCentaur]

@@marcusteblano6376 That December snowfall was so sad...everything up that point in the season was making it feel like it would be the best ski season in memory, and just as the season was starting everything had to reset...

[@stvbrsn]

I can’t believe you were ever a professional, I’m so much better than you! Lol

[@eamon802]

Fake news

[@johnsmeith3913]

Great list, and awesome video as always. However, I will say that Burke should have been included on this lift. I’m a Canadian from Quebec, and I often drive down to Burke due to its close proximity to Montreal to get away from the massive lines at Quebec resorts around montreal as an alternative to jay peak. It’s got a great fall line, and two high speed lifts, so I think it should have been included

[@BlacqueJacqueShellacque_]

Shhhhhh. :D

[@bobl6139]

Went to Burke last yr only 1 lift promised main 1 open at ticket window, didn't occur. Ski team onsite got to cut paying guests. Nice trees and vertical drop but it was a rip-off

[@LifeProducersofNewJerseyLLC]

I would have replaced Magic with Burke. Burke is a long standing commercial operation while Magic is not open all the time, and was closed for many years.

[@mtadams2009]

It’s just very remote and if you go that far Jay is far better. No hate and I love mountain biking there and the sling is good but it a far ride for most and Jay has much better terrain and bigger snow. If it’s windy at Jay Burke may be a good backup plan.

[@beng4647]

I grew up there. 20 years ago it was considered the best value resort.

[@gillir100]

Bolton night skiing is unmatched. May not be the best mountain but definitely has the best vibe.

[@tesserpooh]

One run is unmatched?

[@danthecraftman]

one *icy* run@@tesserpooh

[@NessieTheCatt]

I worked at bolton for 3 seasons when i lived in vt, i loved that place... i was one of the park pros though we just raked out kickers and pulled down all the fencing at night that access road was terrible

[@chris3356]

Yea but went last year and the night life at Bolton is garbage. Restaurant closes at 8 and no communal fire or anything. Good day mountain but not a good overnight mountain

[@jayclarke9611]

I go to Bolton when I’m w a lower level skier but I also want a challenge…fun woods runs run right along side green and blue trails. Excellent intermediate woods skiing at Bolton…and Imactually leave without an empty wallet

[@slongo9516]

Agree ski’d Pico last year while at Killington, the wait to get on the lifts were unbelievably short and the terrain is quite good!

[@macoct1406]

I always loved Burke Mountain the best. I went there a lot from 99-02. The place was always empty but it had a ton of awesome trails, glades, and a decent park.

[@jakeemery9920]

Shhhh ….

[@brentnorrod300]

thanks for this video. I enjoyed it. IN 1983, while living in Maryland, we took a vacation to Killington. It was an awesome time and really hooked me on annual ski vacations. I can imagine what that area is like now at Killington and around Rutland. I'm 66yo now, and with one knee and two hip replacements, my ski days are long gone, but I sure do miss it!

[@maverick114e9]

I’m sad you guys didn’t include Burke, It actually has a hotel, A nice beginner pod (which might be better with 1 or 2 more trails) 2 High speed quads, and a lot of good glade terrain! It’s a mountain I would certainly like to visit.

[@rangerbuckley9174]

And burke is way better than Stowe

[@tiananman]

I skied at Bolton for years, so I won't badmouth it, but to include Bolton and not Burke is a little silly. Burke is much further from pretty much everywhere, but it's still a nice ski mountain - and almost twice as big as Bolton.

[@gigigray2010]

i’ve skied at Burke for years, and i am actually confused as to why you didn’t include it! as someone who loves glade terrain, there’s some amazing glades (caveman

[@timkirchoff3869]

Very strange. I guess it was just too far away from to bother with?

[@tiananman]

@@timkirchoff3869 it's no further than Jay...

[@Frogmanbb66]

Real Vermonters remember the chairlift jump over the rock at SMUGGS

[@NathanOxenfeld]

I just moved to Bolton and cannot wait for this season! Tomorrow is opening day ❄

[@asaSpades1]

Mad River is in my top three fav mountains in VT, tied with Jay at number 1(given similar snow conditions between the two I would choose MRG pretty much every time), and then Smuggs after them. However, given the lack of grooming and snow making, Mad River is probably the worst option to plan your whole trip around if it's a short trip and you're coming from farther away. That being said, if ur intrigued by MRG but dont wanna risk ruining your vacation, Sugarbush is just down the road, so you could plan more around that and if the weather is good, you could take a day to check out Mad River. If you arent keen on the prices and commercial vibe of Sugarbush but want the reliability, consider getting passes limited to just the Mt Ellen peak (Sugarbush North) instead of full mountain passes. You will not be bored here and this section (which is completely separate from the rest of surgarbush) has a much humbler and local vibe than the main Sugarbush resort. ALSO, for experts interested in MRG's terrain, do not be turned off by the small "skiable" acreage because the mountain truly shines with its unmarked terrain (but still within bounds) which I dont think gets taken into account in the official number. If it looks remotely skiable, someone has probably done it and paved the way for you even if its not on the map. FINALLY, if you feel comfortable going out of the resort's bounds and ski patrol rounds, Smugglers Notch offers some incredible backcountry terrain conncted to the long trail, which is also fairly accessible and lapable as it leads you to the parking lots just below the lifts at the bottom of the resort.

[@mikesweet5848]

Ski it if you CAN

[@joelniemann9547]

I agree with your top 3 exactly. MRG is my go-to spontaneous road-trip getaway when they get dumped on, but nothing to plan a vacation around ahead of time. The single chair lift is something to experience at least once. Favorite slope: Paradise, of course. Jay is my all-time favorite, but selfishly I don't like all the improvements they made, like an indoor water park. It used to be very boring at the base, and I liked that. It was for the true skiers that were there for the first lift, and took the last lift up with limited breaks during the day. No need for nightlife, just refueling for the evening and getting lots of sleep. But so be it. The mountain is still great, and it gets some freak storms. Favorite slopes: Valhalla for the gliding turns in soft conditions through the trees, Staircase to get your heart beating fast from the mental and physical challenge, and UN for the moguls as big as WV Bugs. Smuggs is known as a family-friendly destination, but it has a few slopes that rival any other resort's expert terrain. Little chutes like Robin's Run have had me laughing out loud with pure joy.

[@williamharrisiv2486]

Wow those are my exact top 3! Learned to ski at MVG, I love Smuggs family atmosphere and always so relaxing being there. Jay doesn't even feel like it's a Vermont mountain, some of the best snow i've ever had!

[@jayclarke9611]

When there s sufficient snow, there s Mad River, then there s everyone else…there are massive sections that are off map that look like great on map wood runs…just the best Ski it IF you can. If I had to rank my favs assuming decent amount of natural snow and price is no object 1 Mad River 2 Stowe 3 Smugglers Notch 4 Jay Peak 5 Sugarbush 6 Killington 7 Pico s Peak 8 Mt Snow 9 Okemo 10 Burke

[@sunflowerlove60]

I work at mrg and get free pass it is such a beautiful and unique mountain! The trails flow so naturally! And it’s not as hard as they say, my bf learned to ski for the first time ever on that mountain just a few days ago and is already on the single chair!

[@Off-roading1]

I love magic and it goes to shows the 80s ski area once you look past the lodge and snowmaking that’s the fun it to be free and no lines

[@jefffawcett]

I haven’t skied in at least 15 years but back in the old days the single best day of skiing I ever had was at Magic on the legendary Presidents’ Day weekend blizzard. massive snowstorm Friday night took six hours instead of three to get there, but the Saturday skiing was incredible, almost waist deep powder. It was a whole day of giddiness.

[@nsp31a]

The black line lift finally opened in February. I was on it and it shaves several minutes to get to the peak.

[@Off-roading1]

@@jefffawcettthat’s awesome got a good 2 days of skiing in 2022 when they got a good 2-3ft of powder

[@TheProsnurfer]

i lived in vermont for 20 years of my life growing up. iv skied all the mtns , the most memorable and fun experiences some of the best in my whole life summer and winter were at bolton valley. its a place that time has no meaning. a place not in it for the money. a place dedicated to the outdoors and brings snow sports back to the roots of fun and outdoors.

[@JohnShields-xx1yk]

Boston skier from the 1970's, it's cool to see this list, in my day the only way you'd know about them is word of mouth, I've skied most of these mtns, Vermont is a beautiful vacation or wknd getaway. Thank you.

[@thechuckduck]

Would love to see a Burke video some time. One of the best resorts in the east coast and criminally underrated.

[@briant392]

Shhhh... Keep Burke local

[@easternyellowjacket276]

I loved Burke when I was skiing. Cheap, no BS. Pure eastern skiing. No fake snow advertising (looking at you Jay Peak).

[@bobl6139]

There’s a reason several olympians have trained there! Steep and fast

[@alwaysgosnowboarding]

As a vermonter, I agree with this list! Granted that its geared twoard folks looking for a vacation destination. I love bolton as a Burlington resident, the low traffic and slower lifts means you can still find untouched powder 2+ days after a storm. And thier summertime mountainbike trails in the woods get covered with snow and make for some EPIC tree runs with jumps!!! But - the access road can be a beast and possibly one of the gnarliest access roads for VT resorts. This list dosnt expand much on parks for folks looking for that - killington is the best imo, but sugarbush has a massive park set up on that ‘second’ mountain location which are only a 8 min drive apart if you dont take that long connecting lift. Just take off one ski boot for the drive ;) Stowe has amazing terrain and lifts and midweek is really good - its just so expensive… really kills the vibe there… Awesome list, maybe look for some locals to interview when making these lists for those good secrets if theyll share them! And also - the ultimate trip advice. Consider staying in burlington Vt and rent a car or drive up here, TONS to do in this awesome city. And jay peak, sugarbush, stowe all about an hour away. Killington 1.5 hrs.

[@Jetmech145]

Don't even get me started on Bolton Valley. Used to go there night riding on the week days when i was in highschool. Some of the most fun I ever had snowboarding.

[@asajayunknown6290]

Lived in Vermont years ago. In Waterbury. I recognized/remember the slopes of Sugarbush, Mad River, Jay, Bolton, and Stowe. I wonder if Jay still has their VT resident (drivers license) specials on Fridays? It was a 75% discount on a day ticket😊. So it was worth the drive of a little over an hour. I was spoiled. It took about 25 minutes to get to Sugarbush, only about 15 to get to Bolton.

[@adrianunser332]

That Vermonter rate is sadly long gone. I sure do miss those days!

[@Ty_Guy2K]

@@adrianunser332 not surprised. Mount snow used to have one for VT and NH residents for at least one day each week but as soon as they got bought out by Vail they took those deals out. Gotta scrap as much money out of us as possible lol

[@Nikebeast96]

I was dissapointed about okemos ranking on this list. Love that mountain!

[@davidhartman7465]

Good video! I have a home at Stratton and I recognize its drawbacks but 3 things i would add: it’s unlimited on Ikon, the tree skiing (when open) is underrated and it’s where you can find much more of a challenge, and having a true “walking village” at the base is a nice thing to have, even if it feels a little Disney-ish. Like any ski resort, it’s great on weekdays!

[@nickdambrosia2304]

with all due respect ranking Bromley, Snow and Okemo OVER MRG and Bolton simply because they're in southern Vermont and have good numbers on paper is INSANE! I prefer mountains with character

[@mikesweet5848]

Show love to Bromley. You can't beat the sun mountain. That said I'll obviously take MRG over all the mountains you listed.

[@VinCrudo]

Snow has arguably one of the best terrain parks in the country so

[@chingscott00]

Bromley is the Last place I'd ski at in Southern Vt. I call it the Blue Square mtn. In southern Vt, the ranking goes: Stratton, Magic, Okemo, Snow, Saskadena Six, backcountry hiking at Mt. Ascutney, backcountry at the closed resort Maple Valley, Whaleback.... then I guess Bromley

[@jayclarke5466]

MRG when there s snow…unmatched

[@jerseymetalmike5111]

I remember Mad River Glen, and the only working lift at the time was this smoke belching diesel powered chair lift. The only lodging we could find was this room above a bar, we had to squeeze through the crowded bar with our snowy skis to get to the room! The terrain on the mountain was challenging as advertised though, and it was a memorable weekend.

[@patriciarutt1637]

I greatly enjoyed this video. skied them all but two; agreed with your comments, prices for lift tickets are astounding.. I was actively skiing when it was a staggering $50 for a day ticket

[@SlipItIn.Fishing]

20 years ago, I got a college rate All East season pass for pretty much price of a one day lift ticket now. Easily skiing 75 plus days a year back then. Seems like yesterday.

[@sallyandtoshrenwick8302]

This is one of the most accurate reviews of Vermont ski resorts I've seen. My wife and I have been skiing Vermont for over 20 years and have visited many of the resorts you reviewed here - well done ! Though, we would have put Jay as #1 because of the terrain but yes, it can be friggen cold !

[@rangerbuckley9174]

No Stowe is probably the worst in Vermont ever since Vail bought it jay is the best Killington is way to crowded to be number one

[@crowboggs]

I have frozen my tail off at all these mtns... luck of the draw.

[@lemonvfx3334]

you just gotta know when to go...@@rangerbuckley9174

[@bushmandre]

I agree, I've only done Jay(3-4x's), Mt snow (1) and Stowe(1), and Jay is hands down my favorite. It was the closest comparison to Colorado skiing I've done on the east coast in terms of terrain, snow fall and aesthetics.

[@Trapster99]

I learned to ski in Bromley, so it is an excellent mountain to learn and fall in love with the sport of skiing

[@StephenCottrel]

After 45 years , I would personally still rate Stowe Vt. the top Ski Capital of the East,… beautiful trails with natural snow and a host of many close accommodations in Stowe itself making for a super vacationing week .

[@Treeskier21]

Thank you!! Pray for snow this season 🙏💯🌲⛷🤙

[@wanderingnoble]

I’ve been skiing at smuggs since I was 2. Amazing variety and the lifts aren’t bad at all. Smuggs for life

[@UncleTravelingMatt2]

Jay Peak has incredible snow and terrain. I just visited for my first time last weekend and it was the best powder I’ve ever snowboarded at a resort. But yes it was very cold on the lifts and windy and some trails did have some bad ice in some exposed spots. Still, if you prepare yourself accordingly it may be rugged, it’s absolutely the best ski resort I’ve ever snowboarded and I’ve done Killington. But I do like rugged and I like backcountry type feel over comfort and groomed.

[@jdel7525]

Love Jay Peak. Granny Grunts.

[@jackattack9642]

Can you do a video on New York?

[@noneedforaname8808]

New york? Whats to know? Gore is the best because ice face is well....., then ice face, belleayre and plattekill. Hunter sucks, windham is elitest BS and everything else is tiny.

[@emmettking4151]

Love the videos keep up the good work!!

[@anton.profe.candela]

I would love to see the same format for New Hampshire.

[@jackof1]

That would be a little easier; Loon, Cannon, Waterville, Bretton, Wildcat, Attitash, Gunstock, Sunapee, Cranmore…and Tucks just because

[@zsreich]

@@jackof1 I mean tucks is technically expert backcountry and this is a resort guide, but yes just because. 😉

[@jayjackson5705]

no! le them all go to Vermont. i don't think there are any ski areas in NH, anyway.

[@zsreich]

@@jayjackson5705 no no I've heard the best skiing is in maine and massachusetts, there is barely any skiing in VT.....

[@anton.profe.candela]

@@jackof1 what's your mountain aesthetic ranking for those?

[@darko714]

Fair evaluations. Even the “worst” have enough attractive qualities for a great weekend.

[@MichaelRubinton]

Great list! As someone who does a lot of skiing out west, I always tell people that if it’s a good snow season for vermont, killington is as good as most. Love killington (with good snow)!

[@goldtigre4979]

I had a ton of fun at Jay Peak on my visit! Super helpful lesser-known fact- the Airbnb’s in the towns close by are CRAZY cheap, and they’re all SUUUPER nice. I can’t recommend them enough! Hope you guys do a Maine review soon, it’s my fav east coast state to ski!

[@UncleTravelingMatt2]

Mine is still New Hampshire. Vermont may have the best resorts, but the White Mountains are just unmatched I think in terms of size, beauty, majesty, shape, everything.

[@jeredbogli4039]

Learned to ride at Magic, love the trees, the steeps, the slow chairs and everything else - MAGIC FOREVER.

[@Off-roading1]

i’m bolton when i grew up starting skiing but last 3 years at magic i love the mountain. Magic Forever!

[@abrown4green]

#6 Smugglers Notch is one of my favorite places to go

[@bluedrago505]

The Stratton & Sugarbush pass affiliation is wrong in the video, both are unlimited with the Ikon pass!

[@louiZiana-Gurl]

Getting ready to go to killington next week very excited

[@johnplayz1689]

This was a great list. I’ve seen a lot of videos like this from other people but none like this. Also you might wanna consider best ski resort base villages. Might be cool.

[@Frogmanbb66]

Ski bus days growing up in Vermont >>

[@bobwiegers]

I learned to cross-country ski when I moved to New England 10 years ago. every time I'm tempted to try downhill I see the crowds, the lines, and the cost and I'm happy to stick to the skinny skis.

[@Lex1uth3r]

It's not that bad, the people watching helps as do random conversations even if you're just overheard them. LOL. You should give it a shot, try Pico maybe, its one of the least crowded bc everyone goes to Killington or Okemo which are right next door.

[@PaleCentaur]

I'm alright with you putting Bolton Valley near the bottom. Means us locals get to continue enjoying it without a big dent to lift lines from your influence B)

[@marcusteblano6376]

I'd have to say my favorite VT mountain is Jay for affordability, depth of snow, terrain (woods and steeps), and overall vibe. Drawbacks are cold and wind. Magic is only an hour from where I live and has my favorite steep woods skiing after Jay. Yes, you have to wait for a good snowfall, but when they get it, and they do get sneaker storms that are off the radar, I've had some of my best powder days there. Not as cheap as it used to be (was dirt cheap not too many years ago). I've skied at Killington a fair amount over the years. I got less and less enthused about the vibe there in recent years. It doesn't consistently get the snow some of the northern areas get, it's gotten prohibitively expensive, and it tends to be pretty icy, windy, and cold. It does have some good powder skiing in the woods, but it generally gets tracked out pretty fast. I'll give honorable mention to Bolton Valley for snow totals in a good year and variety and challenge of woods terrain. The drawback is the steep sections are close to the top and fairly short with long run-outs back to the lift.

[@robmatta2892]

Great job but surprised you didn't even mention the North Face at Mount Snow. Some leg burning Terrain there aside from the main mountain and a important part of Mount Snow. That's a big reason I would go there vs places like Okemo, Stratton and other less challenging resorts in southern VT

[@chingscott00]

7:52 Mt. Snow is on the list. I was surprised Saskadena Six wasn't on here. They've done a turn around recently like Magic. I'm glad Magic was in here as it's one of my destination vacations. Also I grew up skiing all over VT, and you're wrong about Snow being more challenging that Stratton and Okemo. Sorry just factually false. It may have some terrain parks, so go there for that. But Stratton is fast! Okemo's alright.

[@champan250]

I lived in the northern suburbs of Boston for like 20 years, we only start driving up towards the ski area at the tail end of a major snowstorm

[@joshnass1125]

Heading to killington in January. Very excited!!

[@Type1FunDay]

Great video! I think the judgment changes based on if you come with a family or expert skier friends, and also whether you come for just a day or two, or entire week. Would probably disagree on one comment about Mount Snow's trails being "too similar" across the mountain. I think that would definitelly be hallmark of Stratton (and for that reason I would move it down the list), and to an extent Okemo. At Snow, depending on conditions, SNOWDANCE fun for wide carving turns, ROLLERCOASTER full of berms and jumps while still on the main face, the area from Ego Alley all the way to the Ridge has different feel and you can come in and out of the woods, because of sun Sunbrook has different snow conditions, and is fun for a visit during the day, and Carinthias trails, even if you dont come for the features can keep you engaged, and then there is the north face with its blacks and glades.

[@a30dayfreetrial]

Totally agree--IMO the only downside to Mt. Snow is how busy it typically is. Even with that, I would probably put it above Okemo and Stratton (though I guess I can see that Stratton would be better for beginners and intermediates)

[@stvbrsn]

I love the flat dome summit of Stratton! It feels like you can just skate around while you make up your mind where to descend.

[@gratedcheese123]

I've skied Vermont for 20 years, this is spot on for every mountain.

[@alexioshjkl6170]

new hampshire resorts when?

[@benregan8343]

I love snowboard ing at Okemos and mount snow in vermont

[@bloomstumpremoval]

Jay Peak is best for snow quality and glades.

[@jackanderegg8836]

Love the videos! I would love to see one of these videos for New York State!

[@wayoutwest3009]

Even though I’ve never been to Vermont, I still love the vids you put out. Do “California resorts ranked” next !

[@zachmunch4807]

Mad river glen is insane when you get fresh powder. Was there a day after 2ft of powder and it was the best day of skiing I have ever had and will probally ever have

[@Lex1uth3r]

Awww, but Burke is a pretty solid spot. Love Sugarbush, Jay and Killington, they've always been my top 3 favorites on the ice coast. Jay DEFINITELY gets cold. One of my times there it was in the single digits before windchill and my goggles became useless from ice buildup on the inside and out. Had to use my one had to try to block out the wind so my eyes wouldn't literally freeze. LOL That aside its freakin awesome with some pretty epic glades. Can't wait to head up there next month.

[@skx444]

Long time killington guy here and I wish I shared your enthusiasm for it.

[@Gavinbelson]

Sugarbush baby! used to work there before covid, one of the best times of my life.

[@jayclarke5466]

Bring yr bank

[@Danny-kh9gk]

As someone who lives on Long Island, Bromley has been a great spot to take my gf to help her learn. Not a bad drive, easy mountain, never too busy, and very family friendly.

[@ejr5480]

I went to UVM Lived in VT for 6 years. Skied at everyplace in this video. I agree with everything in this video. Oh yea, now I ski at Mammoth Lakes. The hell with Vermont!!! 😂😂😂😂😂

[@bobcobb7992]

Cool, so Mommy and Daddy not only paid your ridiculously overpriced out of state tuition for UVM, they also paid for you to do more skiing at more Vermont mountains than pretty much any real Vermonter can afford! Thanks for leaving VT. Please don't come back. Fortunately, it sounds like you have no intentions of doing so.

[@easternyellowjacket276]

Most of these folks have no idea aboutMammoth, Palisades, Sugarbowl, Kirkwood.......I always find it humorous that Jay claims to be in the same league of snowfall as these guys.....It's laughable.

[@jonathanp1884]

I skied many of these resorts in VT as well as many in the Sierras, Taos NM, Winter Park Colorado, Big Bear CA, Stevens Pass Washington. The most powder I have skied in was in upstate NY at Bluemont.

[@ManzellaBob]

I would take Okemo over most if not all the areas in your video. From southern Connecticut it is far closer than a dozen areas you mentioned. You can get there on I91 and VT 103 both of which move right along. It has 5 high speed lifts, great snowmaking, easy parking, 4 very nice eating facilities and a real town at the bottom. Restaurants, banks, gas stations, ski shops, food stores and lots of lodging. It also uses the Epic pass which is more affordable than the Ikon pass. Just one person's opinion.

[@kylebennett2612]

Gonna be going there soon from southern Connecticut!

[@f40carz93]

Okemo is lovely for families, and the actual town that sits at the bottom of the mountain (Ludlow) is very cute and has many resources (like an actual supermarket) that its main competitor, killington, does not have

[@ilwx9099]

I wouldn’t, personally, and it’s because of terrain. Okemo’s convenient. I’m from SW CT and it’s super easy to get to. And pretty much all of what you list. But the mountain itself doesn’t have nearly enough challenging terrain, and I say that as someone who grew up skiing okemo

[@rivergewehr4817]

Would love to see a list like this or reviews for NH ski mountains

[@mtadams2009]

I have skied every mountain on this list, all of them many times. That said I am a season pass holder at Killington and for a reason. It has great terrain and they have a very big commitment to your skiing experience. That means they run their snow making guns whenever possible and relentlessly. I love Sugerbush, Mad River, Stowe and Jay and if it’s a good snow year they are all great. If not you are much better off at Killington. During peak season and holidays Saturdays can be a bit much. The Canyon area which has some of the best terrain never has a lift line. The tree skiing is also very good. If you study the map a bit you will find it’s laid out very well and they have built tunnels to reduce issues. They have replaced almost all their slow lifts. The ones that are left are in areas that never have a line. For younger people or those of us who like to go out at night Killington has a great nightlife and lots of restaurants. Places like Jay or The Bush not so much. A few year ago 2019 my wife wanted to go to Stowe for a few days with family, the conditions were terrible and even though the temps were cold enough they never ran their guns. This was on a holiday week. Killington on the other had had their guns doing their job. It left a very bad taste, really expensive and rock hard with no commitment to making things better. If it sucks at Killington, say after a rain, freeze cycle it sucks every place else in Vermont. There is a reason the woman’s World Cup races here every November, They know and trust Killington to make snow. Killington has been open for well over a week already.

[@Machria23]

Yep! Killington is also un-real at recovery after some bad weather (warm temps, rain…., no snow…), I’ve seen them change 80% of the mountain conditions from a horrible rainy day, to almost a powder say the next day (without receiving any snow!). My only complaint with Killington is they don’t spin enough lifts during the week.

[@benjaminselfridge2001]

Yup I always own a Killy pass and because they make snow, size, length of season. It’s bang for the bucks. Plus, how far do you want to drive.

[@jayclarke5466]

Shorter runs not counting connecting trails

[@yiyuewu1984]

Killington was so good with so many places to explore.

[@jakeyell]

I've been at the top of Jay in a wind chill of -70 degrees. It's no joke...

[@alreadycalledellie]

As someone who skis Killington a lot- IT DESERVES THE WIN ❤ Can we have some appreciation? 🎉

[@br1763]

Maybe it was because of the hype about its size, but it felt like a huge letdown to me. They talk about 3000' vertical drop but the majority of the peaks are like 1500-1700' which is ok but nothing special for New England.

[@mikequinlan9585]

I visited many resorts all over the United States and Killington is my favorite place to ski! ⛷️

[@outdooralien]

Same but winter park is pretty fun too

[@MM-vv8mt]

Good accurate report; however, Stratton and Sugarbush are now unlimited with the full IKON pass. And being a skier-only mountain, even with the slow single chair at MRG, it's worth the throwback feel because it drops a single skier up top every 30 seconds which means you are guaranteed to not have a high speed double quad dropping dozens of dopes and boarders up top at the same time to create massive CFs like you encounter every day at Killington. Plus, MRG is a co-op, skier-owned resort and so lift tix remain very affordable, and they don't gouge you for a beer, wings, or swag in the basebox. On pow days, the MRG single chair is the lift to Heaven. And the General Stark Pub rules!

[@k4pp3done3]

Lived in Killington for some years in my 20's. Some of the best years of my life riding that much in the winter, golfing a lot in the summer. Caveat, it's not a small mountain and I def had a bunch of my out of town friends come up and get lost at the beast. Don't be surprised if you've got to go pick up your friends at Bear or Down on Rt4. If you know the mountain, it's a fantastic place. All my buddies were instructors there, so was pretty easy to find the good spots with them. Man I miss the K-town crew... I digress... Lived right across from Pico. Rule #1 about Pico, we don't talk about Pico... When I lived there, we could cherry pick weekdays only, but now when I go up, 50/50 shot I'm hitting Pico especially if it's a weekend. If you've got a family or people who may get lost, Okemo is probably the move. Much easier not to get lost. If there is a ton of snow, go further north. MT Snow has been doing it too for the past few years and Stratton is no slouch. VT. Best skiing in the northeast. Ya know, if we get some snow and it isn't -10.

[@tomweiss9600]

Great video, helped me plan my vacation!

[@prant8998]

Killington, was the coldest I have ever been in my life, and I had to swim to Newfoundland when the Titanic sunk. I took one run on skis and should have had hockey skates. Went up, went down, went to the car with the heater on full blast. Save your money and go to ANY resort in the Rockies. It’s just about the same price and one thousand percent more fun. Skiing in the east is for losers with no money or have never tried the west.

[@seanyboy0000]

Unless you’re joking then you are actually a wimp

[@jamjam9930]

This is an epic comment lol if you can’t take da humidity then beat it more for us

[@jamjam9930]

Just ripped jay this weekend -29 windchill at the summit overnight on Saturday. ripped in -13 to -19 wind chill. True temp -9. Pussseeeeeee

[@maxwellalley6642]

My man, I was waiting for this video

[@LeLaidbackLauncher]

What i love doing is going hard day 1 at Killi in the summit and snowden areas, which has a great lift and black glades, and then taking it easier on my aching legs day two at Pico, which is cheaper, less crowded, still has decent terrain and is right around the corner

[@ronnyc9506]

I was at Burke Mountain in December- lift tickets were $45 a day during the weekday. It looks small, but the trails at the top are challenging and steep (big dipper). I became a better snowboarder by going there.

[@aegiswings]

Going to Killington this weekend. That’s where all the cool kids in NY went when I was a kid. Back then I only went to Mount Snow or Carinthia. In march i have a trip planned to Smugglers Notch. But I miss Haystack.

[@Der_S0ldat22]

This is very helpful, when is the Smugglers Notch video coming out?

[@isaacb7844]

Love the video! However, bolton valley got snubbed. Seriously, it's an incredible resort! I'd ski it over many of the others!

[@lesstyranny2695]

It's a good thing, helps keep the secret going... 😉

[@pavelshi]

Great Job!

[@jeffersons8750]

I'm from Southern VT and Magic Mt is an awesome mountain. Being fro. Southern VT I agree that Killington is the best Mt in VT and I worked at Stowe, Jay, and Burke. But our whole state has awesome skiing. God Bless VT!!

[@jonathanp1884]

Which town?

[@skidawg79]

Cant argue with the list. I spent 2 seasons as a ski instructor at Sugarbush back in the early 00's. So I have a soft spot for them. I might put Sugarbush ahead of Jay Peak but your reasoning makes sense. Enjoyed the video.

[@acszym]

If you can't argue with this list you haven't spent enough time skiing in VT.

[@skidawg79]

@@acszym You might be right. It's been 20 years since I've been there. I lived there from 2001-2003. So my opinions might be out of date.

[@acszym]

Sugarbush is fine, and the terrain is good (maybe not on par with Jay, but still good), but the snow quality is always worse than Jay. jay's in it's own little weather pattern, whereas Sugarbush relies on Nor'Easters for the bulk of it's snowfall.

[@johngilbert4670]

Sugarbush has better sustained vert and terrain to match, pretty great lift layout, really good trees and out of bounds. Jay has crappy lift layout, and whoever designed the trail system didn't take into account wind and snow preservation - they should've been publicly shamed. Building out the glade system was almost required to get to the snow that blew off the trails... Jay obviously gets more snow, and the backcountry out of bounds can be great (but crowded). IMHO, Jay was better before the crook overbuilt the place- lost its character. I kind of lean toward Sugarbush- probably the best all-around resort now that Stowe's completed the transition to become Aspen East. Overall, Smuggs/Mad River Valley/Stowe/Jay are at the top, to each their own. If you know VT skiing and skiing is the priority (not nightlife/shopping/crap like that), you don't bother going south of Sugarbush to ski.

[@jayclarke5466]

@@johngilbert4670 the Bush could be the best w the right mgmt…they have sooo much terrain in and out of bounds

[@NilezII]

Totally unbelievable lift ticket prices! I remember paying $23 at Mount Snow in 1978, and thinking it was high. These places seem to be disinterested in day skiers. I remember when Mt. Snow was the go-to for the closest big-mountain skiing to southern New England. Bubble chairs, clickety-clack converted conveyer belt lifts, Frozen Fountain, outdoor swimming pool, all the funky features, mostly no more.

[@marcusteblano6376]

Magic Mtn had throwback Thursdays for $25 or $29 as recently as 4 years ago. That was a deal.

[@Snowboard_johnny]

I have visited Jay peak, killington, sugarbush and smugglers notch. from my experience Jay peak is the best, amazing glades and powder, great park and large mountain. sugarbush and smugglers are both amazing when it is a good time, i went to both last year and they had almost no snow for my first few days but they are amazing with fresh snow..

[@Sledmaninc]

The reason smugglers notch has the "old school vibe" is because everything there Is legitimately old. it's not on purpose, nothing has been updated in forever. They make you think its old school for aesthetic, but its just so they can make more money by not updating anything (I know, I work there)

[@ScoutMadeThis]

Jay is #1 woods in VT no contest

[@jamjam9930]

Dawg my crew takes the trip from Cape May, NJ, 9.5hrs sometimes JUST for jay. We are tree junkies. We just ripped it past 4 days. Fckn sick. Timbuktu and Canyonland were just… disgustingly fun. I broke group for a run and hit Staircase. Close to the Best in the East!!!! Jay was firing this weekend!

[@benferris3252]

As someone who has only snowboarded on the east coast Pico and Killington are the 3rd and best resort that I've gotten to spend some time on. Can definitely relate to Pico having tons of open space with short lift lines as well as getting completely lost at Killington

[@mxg75]

Cochran's Hill also offers night skiing.

[@fredhollister7810]

Nice rankings, nice priorities for the rankings, nice narrator voice. Glad Killington is #1-everyone should go there!

[@alreadycalledellie]

finally a killington comment ❤

[@jayclarke5466]

Killington wayy overrated…it’s where the LI-Hunter Mtn crowd goes…still great but too commercial and not enough long trails not counting connectors

[@troystark5961]

Great video! Would love to see a similar rundown for New Hampshire.

[@tradeka4206]

You’re underselling the amount of beginner terrain Jay has. Considering the size of the mountain and its reputation for advanced terrain, it actually has a lot to offer for beginners.

[@robertshea5159]

Contrary to popular belief, MRG is accessible to beginners. I started last season. It’s also one of the only places I could find that offered Telemark lessons. Peace

[@kencoxdesign]

Feeeheel Fridays at MRG are where I learned to make respectable tele turns. My wife isn't an expert skier and we can ski plenty of MRG terrain together. What's really nice though is that the trail layout allows me to take a steeper section and meet her at different junctions all the way down. With a single base area, it's harder to lose people you're skiing with. The single chair also throttles traffic so that when you're coming down you feel like you have the mountain to yourself. Finally, you can get lunch in the lodge at very reasonable prices and there's Lawson's on tap. MRG would be my #1 and overly commercialized hills like Stowe would be much farther down my personal list.

[@delta9jms]

like Jimmy Buffett, MRG doesn't need any awards the fans know why

[@jayclarke5466]

Yeah IF…The chair at Birdland is open

[@rivergewehr4817]

You forget to mention the biggest thing my snow has going for it, one of, if not the best park on the entire east coast

[@chingscott00]

I'm a life long VT skier, and a PSIA leveled instructor at one of the top resorts here. I just gotta say, I LOVE that Magic Mountain was on this list! And surprised that Burke wasn't above it. Magic is one of My destination vacations. As a tree and bump mtn on heavy powder dump days, this place is prime! It doesn't inspire hope for this generation of ski and riders that a Fast lift and Finely Groomed trails are what they need to be happy. Comon New England, I thought you were tougher than that. Also, gotta say, i love how Killington is ranked #1 but there are more critiques to compliments about it than Stowe. Also i noticed that the ending footage is basically an advertisement for Stowe with the iconic gondolas. I understand the parking complaints, which are actually much more free all season now, and some other statistical numerology BS, but ... honestly, you can't beat Stowe as top Mtn in VT

[@bodega87]

Stowe was already getting a bit spendy before they were bought. Now its ruined for the time being. Much better options out there.