23 Best Ski Resorts Near NYC

Are you looking for the best ski resorts near NYC?'

Us native New Yorkers are always looking for a weekend getaway and when the days start to get shorter and colder there is nothing better to do then embrace and go on a ski getaway.

The allure of a calm white blanket, the thrill of the wind rushing past your cheeks, the exhilaration of a well-executed turn – if these feelings resonate with you, you're probably a fan of skiing. 

But living in New York City might make you think you must book a flight to experience these. Well, think again! 

You'll be pleasantly surprised to learn that some of the best ski resorts are within a 5-hour drive of NYC. I am here to share some top-notch ski resorts near the city, each offering a unique blend of amenities suitable for different audiences. 

Whether you're a beginner looking for a gentle slope to start your skiing journey, a family seeking a fun-packed winter weekend, or a seasoned pro ready to take on challenging trails, you will be happy to hear there is a ski resort for you. 

(1) Windham Mountain, New York 

⭐️ RATING: 4.4/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  2.5 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ✅

⛷️ BEST FOR: families

Just about a 2.5-hour drive from NYC, the Windham Mountain Resort sits nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains.

It is a very popular ski resort near New York City because of its proximity to the city and the fact that it is easy to get to without a car.

This resort is ideal for beginners and advanced skiers, with its 54 trails across 285 skiable acres.
The slopes are perfectly groomed and offer a blend of varying difficulties, making it a popular choice for families and groups with a mixed range of abilities.

A significant plus of Windham Mountain is the nighttime skiing option on selected trails, offering a unique experience under the starlit sky.

Getting to Windham Mountain From NYC Without a Car

The best way to get to Windham Mountain without a car is by bus. Adirondack Trailways has two buses leaving out of Port Authority daily. The ride is just under 3 hours and prices start at $48

Located approximately 2.5 hours from New York City, Hunter Mountain is a top-notch ski resort near NYC that is great for all categories of skiers and snowboarders.

Known for being the Catskill's largest and most popular resort, Hunter Mountain offers an impressive range of trails – 67 in total, spread over a 320-acre skiable area.

With three mountain faces, these trails cater to all skill levels with an even division between beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes, making it an excellent spot for families with different skiing abilities.

The resort is also renowned for its remarkable snowmaking capabilities, ensuring reliable snow cover throughout the season. Hunter Mountain also offers the largest snow tubing park in New York State and an impressive zip line adventure.

Getting to Hunter Mountain From NYC Without a Car

There are several tour operators that offer trips from NYC to Hunter Mountain on various days of the week making it one of the easiest ski resorts to get to without a car.

(3) Loon Mountain, New Hampshire

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  5.5 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ⛔️

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers and Snowboarders of all levels, Families

Loon Mountain in Lincoln, New Hampshire, is a skier's paradise, approximately a 5.5-hour drive from NYC.

With its 61 trails spread across 370 acres of skiable terrain, Loon Mountain caters to skiers of all levels, boasting a mix of easy, intermediate, and expert trails.

The resort is particularly well-known for the quality of its terrain parks, which are consistently ranked among the best on the East Coast.

In terms of amenities, besides skiing and snowboarding, you can try snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or indulge in a scenic gondola ride.

For those who prefer a break from winter sports, the resort's vicinity hosts the Ice Castles, a must-see spectacle of illuminated ice formations that makes for an enchanting evening out.

Thunder Ridge ski area in Patterson, New York, is the ideal ski resort for those seeking a convenient, family-friendly resort just about 2 hours drive from NYC,

This resort caters to beginners and families, with 30 trails spanning over 100 acres of skiable terrain.

Most of these trails are beginner and intermediate, making it a perfect learning ground for novice skiers and a fun, leisurely experience for the more seasoned ones.

In terms of amenities, Thunder Ridge offers ski and snowboard rentals and a school providing lessons for all ages and skill levels. The dining scene comprises a cozy lodge offering warm beverages and comfort food, ideal for unwinding after a day on the slopes.

Getting to Thunder Ridge From NYC Without a Car

Getting to Thunder Ridge from NYC without a car is super easy. Take the Metro North Ski Train out of Grand Central Station to Patterson, NY. From there jump on the shuttle to Thunder Ridge.

Mountain Creek in Vernon, New Jersey, is a popular ski destination just an hour's drive from New York City, making it the closest skiing to NYC.

With over 167 acres of skiable terrain and three terrain parks around 46 trails of varying difficulty, it caters to beginners, experienced skiers, and snowboarders.

The facility is divided into two main sections: The Vernon Peak, suited for beginners and intermediates, and The South Peak, for freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

Beyond the slopes, Mountain Creek offers snow tubing, a zip-line tour, and a mountain coaster, making it an exciting winter destination for the whole family. The resort also provides ski and snowboard lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Getting to Mountain Creek, NJ from NYC Without a Car

Getting to Mountain Creek from NYC without a car is super easy. A number of tour operators offer bus service as well as day trips to Thunder Ridge daily during the season.

Camelback Mountain Resort, located in Pennsylvania's picturesque Poconos region, is a 2-hour drive from NYC, making it a convenient destination for a ski trip.

The resort boasts over 166 acres of skiable terrain with 39 trails that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Among these trails, a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes ensures everyone in your group will find a suitable challenge.

For families, Camelback offers the most significant snow tubing park in the United States for some added fun. The resort is also home to four distinct terrain parks that cater to beginner, intermediate, and advanced freestyle skiers and snowboarders.

In the vicinity of the resort, you'll find attractions like the Crossings Premium Outlets for those who fancy a shopping spree and the Mount Airy Casino for adult entertainment.

This combination of diverse skiing terrain, additional winter activities, and nearby attractions makes Camelback an ideal choice for a winter getaway.

Getting to Camelback Mountain Resort From NYC Without a Car

Take the bus from Port Authority to Mt. Pocono or Mt Airy Casino. From there you can take a taxi to Camelback Mountain Resort.

Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, located in Hancock, Massachusetts, is about a 3-hour drive from NYC, making it a perfect destination for a weekend ski trip.

The resort features 45 trails spread over 170 acres of skiable terrain, with a balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes. This ensures an enjoyable skiing experience for every skill level.

Jiminy Peak has a well-equipped Mountain Adventure Park that offers activities such as mountain coaster rides and a thrilling Aerial Adventure Park for those seeking extra adventure.

The resort also provides ski and snowboarding lessons for all ages, making it an excellent place for beginners to hone their skills.

Nearby, visitors can explore the Berkshire region's many cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and historical sites. Although it's not the closest to NYC, Jiminy Peak's diverse offering and the cultural richness of its surroundings make it a worthy contender in the list of best ski resorts near NYC.

Belleayre Mountain, located in Highmount, New York, is one of the major ski resorts in New York, just a 2.5-hour drive from NYC.

Boasting over 50 trails and eight lifts covering around 175 acres of skiable terrain, Belleayre is an excellent choice for beginner and advanced skiers.

The resort evenly divides its trails among easy, intermediate, and difficult, ensuring skiers of all skill levels can find a suitable run.

For those who want to take a break from skiing, Belleayre offers snowshoeing and cross-country trails, providing a diverse winter activity lineup. The resort also offers ski and snowboarding lessons for all ages, making it an excellent choice for families and beginners.

One of the best things to do is to ride on the Catskill Thunder gondola, where you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Catskill Forest Preserve.

Getting to Belleayre From NYC Without a Car

A number of tour companies offer day trips to Belleayre Mountain from NYC making it super easy to get to.

(9) Gore Mountain

⭐️ RATING: 4.6/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  4 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ⛔️

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers and Snowboarders of all levels, Families

Gore Mountain, located in North Creek, New York, is a popular ski resort boasting a 2,537-foot vertical drop – the largest in the state. It's a popular spot for alpine skiing and snowboarding.

A 4-hour drive from NYC, it's a bit further than others on the list but well worth the trip for its diverse terrain and stunning Adirondack mountain views.

Sprawling over four peaks of skiable terrain, Gore Mountain offers more than 110 trails for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort is divided into various zones, offering a unique skiing experience.

The family-friendly Snow Bowl offers gentler slopes for beginners, while the North and South Sides of Gore Mountain cater to more advanced and expert skiers with their challenging terrain.

Off the slopes, there is plenty to keep you entertained, with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing on offer.

Gore Mountain also offers comprehensive ski and snowboard lessons for beginners. Known as the largest ski resort in New York, despite its distance from NYC, its extensive offering makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a longer ski trip.

Bristol Mountain, located in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region in upstate New York, is a fantastic destination for a winter trip.

A 5-hour drive from NYC, this resort offers an impressive vertical drop of 1,200 feet and features 38 trails spread across 138 acres of skiable terrain.

There's an even distribution between beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, making the resort suitable for everyone, from novice skiers to seasoned snowboarders.

For those who want to explore other winter activities, Bristol Mountain offers night skiing, a terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, and cross-country skiing at the resort's Nordic Center.

Furthermore, the ski school at Bristol Mountain is known for its comprehensive program, making it an excellent place for beginners to learn and improve their skills.

Although Bristol Mountain is a longer drive from NYC, it's well worth the trip, given the quality of skiing, stunning views of the Finger Lakes, and the warm, friendly atmosphere that welcomes all visitors.

Plattekill Mountain, located in the stunning Catskill Mountains, is one of the hidden gems within a comfortable 3-hour drive from NYC.

With 38 trails over 110 acres of skiable terrain, the resort offers a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. This ensures that every skier, regardless of skill level, finds a trail that suits them.

Unlike other bustling resorts, Plattekill offers a quieter, more relaxed experience—making it an ideal choice for families and those who prefer a less crowded setting.

Apart from downhill skiing, Plattekill offers many winter activities, such as snowboarding, snow tubing, and snowshoeing. There's also a fantastic ski school that caters to beginners of all ages.

Its accessibility and serene atmosphere make Plattekill an appealing choice for those seeking a tranquil winter getaway.

Greek Peak Mountain Resort, nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region of Central New York, is a superb choice for a winter trip.

Just under a 4-hour drive from NYC, the resort boasts 56 trails scattered across 220 acres of skiable terrain, offering a good balance of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs.

This makes Greek Peak a versatile destination catering to skiers and boarders of all skill levels.
Greek Peak isn't just about skiing and snowboarding. Other on-site winter activities include a tubing center, an indoor waterpark, and a mountain coaster, adding to the resort's appeal for families and non-skiers.

The resort's adaptive snowsports program and well-regarded ski school make it an inclusive choice for everyone, including beginners and those with disabilities.

Campgaw Mountain, a petite yet delightful ski area in Mahwah, New Jersey, is the closest skiing destination to NYC, just an hour's drive away. This makes it a perfect choice for day-trippers and beginners.

The resort offers 18 trails across 18 skiable acres, most of which are beginner and intermediate-friendly. Campgaw Mountain is an excellent place for those new to skiing or looking to hone their skills before tackling larger slopes.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, the resort also offers snow tubing with a dedicated lift – a hit with families. The ski school here is well-regarded, offering lessons for all ages and abilities.

(14) Stratton Mountain Resort

⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  4.5 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ✅

⛷️ BEST FOR: Beginners, Families

Stratton Mountain Resort, nestled in the Green Mountains of southern Vermont, is a beloved winter destination with a driving time of just over 4 hours from NYC.

The resort offers an impressive selection of 99 trails spread over 670 skiable acres, catering to all skier levels, with a nearly even split of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, there are many winter activities to enjoy. The resort features a popular snow tubing park, a full-service spa, and a state-of-the-art Training and Fitness Center.

The resort's ski school is also highly renowned, offering lessons for all ages and expertise levels. Lastly, the nearby Stratton Mountain Village offers various shopping and entertainment options, adding to the resort's appeal.

Getting to Stratton Mountain Resort From NYC Without a Car

The Stratton Jitney offers direct service from midtown Manhattan to Stratton during the weekends. The ride is 4 hours and prices start at $69 per person.

(15) Mount Snow Vermont

⭐️ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  4 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ✅

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers of all levels, Snowboarders, Families, Weekend getaways

Mount Snow Vermont, a premier ski resort part of the Vail Resorts in West Dover, Vermont, is a treasure trove for winter sports enthusiasts.

It is about a 4-hour drive from NYC, making it a fantastic choice for weekend warriors and long-stay vacationers.

The resort flaunts over 80 trails spread across 600 skiable acres, featuring a balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs.

This ensures everyone, from rookies to seasoned skiers, can find a trail matching their skill level.
Mount Snow's terrain parks are also a highlight, recognized as some of the best on the East Coast, attracting snowboarding enthusiasts from all over.

Besides its famed ski and snowboard runs, Mount Snow offers many winter activities, like snow tubing, snowmobiling, and scenic chairlift rides.

The ski school at Mount Snow has a reputation for its top-notch training for all ages and skill levels, making it beginner-friendly.

Getting to Mount Snow Vermont From NYC Without a Car

Train service is available via The Amtrak Vermonter to Brattleboro, Vermont. You can also take the bus from midtown Manhattan to Brattleboro, Vermont. From Brattleboro there are shuttles to Mount Snow that are available on request.

(16) Whiteface Mountain, New York

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  5 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ⛔️

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers of all levels, Families, Adventure seekers, Olympic history enthusiasts

Whiteface Mountain, located in Wilmington, New York, is a top-tier ski resort worth a 5-hour drive from NYC. Offering the highest vertical drop in the East, it's a haven for skiers who crave thrilling downhill runs.

With 90 trails spread across 288 skiable acres, Whiteface Mountain caters to skiers of all levels.

Its terrain includes a balance of beginner, intermediate, and expert trails, ensuring a compelling experience for everyone from novice skiers to seasoned pros.

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Whiteface Mountain provides various winter activities like ice climbing, bobsledding, and scenic gondola rides.

The ski school is also a highlight, known for its comprehensive and approachable lessons suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Nearby, you can explore the charming town of Lake Placid, home to two Winter Olympics and a wealth of attractions.

Its mix of world-class skiing, diverse amenities, and the allure of Olympic history make Whiteface Mountain a standout choice among the best ski resorts near NYC.

Catamount Mountain Resort, straddling the border between New York and Massachusetts, is a hidden gem among ski resorts near NYC.

A manageable 2.5-hour drive from the city, it's an excellent choice for those looking to escape the city for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

The resort boasts over 40 trails spread across approximately 200 skiable acres, with a nearly equal distribution of beginner, intermediate, and advanced slopes. This ensures that skiers of all skill levels can find a challenge to their liking.

Catamount's terrain parks, renowned for their innovative layouts, delight snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

Aside from skiing and snowboarding, Catamount offers popular winter activities like snow tubing, making it a fun destination for the whole family.

The resort's ski and snowboard school is known for its quality instruction, providing lessons for learners of all ages and abilities.

Mohawk Mountain, nestled in Cornwall, Connecticut, is a delightful pick for snow lovers searching for the best ski resorts near NYC.

Just a 2-hour drive from the city, it is especially appealing for those seeking a quick getaway to the slopes.

The resort is home to over 25 trails spread across approximately 100 skiable acres, focusing on intermediate to advanced slopes. However, several beginner trails ensure that all skill levels can enjoy their time in the snow.

Mohawk Mountain is also recognized for its extensive snowmaking capabilities, ensuring reliable skiing conditions throughout the season.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers snow tubing for family-friendly fun. Its highly-rated ski school provides lessons for all ages and skill levels, particularly on nurturing beginners.

(19) Killington, VT

⭐️ RATING: 4.7/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  5 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ✅

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers of all levels, Snowboarders, Families, Weekend getaways, After-ski activities

Killington, Vermont, is a powerhouse among the ski resorts near NYC, well worth the five-hour drive.
Known as “The Beast of the East,” Killington boasts the largest skiable terrain in Eastern North America, with over 1500 acres spread across six mountain peaks.

The resort caters to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities, with an impressive array of over 155 trails that range from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert terrain.

Killington also offers a variety of additional activities like snow tubing, snowmobile tours, and gondola rides, adding to the fun off the slopes. On top of that, Killington's ski school is highly regarded, offering professional training for beginners and advanced skiers alike.

Visitors can enjoy the charming town of Killington by venturing off the mountain with its local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Getting to Killington, VT From NYC Without a Car

The easiest way to get to Killington if you do not have a car is by bus. Ovrride provides round-trip bus service with pick up locations throughout NYC. They even have packages which include lift tickets.

🤩 Check Prices and Availability!

(20) Okemo Mountain Resort

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  5 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ⛔️

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers of all levels, Snowboarders, Families, Winter activity enthusiasts

Okemo Mountain Resort, located in Ludlow, Vermont, is popular among families and skiing enthusiasts. It is a must-visit on any list of the best ski resorts near NYC.

The drive from NYC clocking in at just under five hours, it's a perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the city.

The resort has over 120 trails spread across about 667 skiable acres, catering to various skill levels.
The exceptional grooming and extensive snowmaking capabilities ensure optimal skiing conditions throughout the season.

The resort's terrain parks, superpipe, and indoor training facility, AMP Energy Big Air Bag, offer an added thrill for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

In addition to excellent skiing, Okemo offers numerous winter activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing, making it a fun-filled destination for the entire family.

The resort's renowned ski and snowboard school provides top-notch instruction for learners of all ages and levels, focusing on cultivating young skiers.

Mount Peter Ski Area, located in Warwick, New York, is an excellent choice for families and beginners searching for the best ski resorts near NYC.

A mere 1.5-hour drive from the city, Mount Peter is a convenient day-trip destination featuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere and one of the closest ski resort to NYC.

The resort offers over 14 trails spanning around 69 skiable acres, with a mix of beginner and intermediate slopes, making it an ideal learning ground for beginners.

A notable feature of Mount Peter is its free beginner ski and snowboard lessons offered every weekend, making it an accessible option for those new to winter sports.

Alongside skiing and snowboarding, Mount Peter offers snow tubing, a favorite among families and groups.

The resort is also home to high-quality rental equipment and a well-stocked ski shop, ensuring visitors have everything for a fun day on the slopes.

While it may not boast the vast terrain of larger resorts, Mount Peter's charm lies in its welcoming ambiance, commitment to beginner skiers, and proximity to NYC, making it a worthy mention among the best ski resorts near NYC.

(22) Blue Mountain Resort

⭐️ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | ⏳ DISTANCE FROM NYC:  2 hours | 🚌 PUBLIC TRANSIT FRIENDLY: ⛔️

⛷️ BEST FOR: Skiers of all levels, Snowboarders, Day-trippers, Weekend getaways, Freestyle enthusiasts, Families

Blue Mountain Resort, nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, is popular among skiers and winter sports enthusiasts seeking the best ski resorts near NYC.

An approximately 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the city, Blue Mountain is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Boasting the highest vertical drop in Pennsylvania, the resort features 39 distinct trails across over 164 skiable acres, offering diverse terrain for all skill levels.

Beyond skiing, Blue Mountain offers other winter activities like snowboarding, snow tubing, and terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts.

The resort also provides top-notch rental gear and lessons for beginners and intermediate skiers.

Just a stone's throw away from the bustling city, Blue Mountain Resort's impressive terrain, convenient amenities, and proximity to NYC make it one of the best skiing near NYC.

Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, located in Lackawaxen, Pennsylvania, is an inviting ski resort close to NYC.

A manageable 2.5-hour drive from the city brings you to this friendly destination, making Big Bear an excellent choice for a day or weekend excursion.

With 18 trails, seven lifts, and three magic carpet lifts for beginners sprawled across 86 skiable acres, Big Bear offers a varied ski experience catering to all proficiency levels.

From gentle slopes for beginners to challenging terrains for advanced skiers, the resort ensures an exhilarating experience for every visitor. The resort also features a terrain park for those looking to try freestyling.

Aside from its skiing and snowboarding offerings, Big Bear offers a snow tubing park and a winter sports school, which is excellent for beginners or those looking to improve their skills.

The resort's friendly ambiance and manageable size appeal to families and first-time skiers.
With its accessible location and a well-rounded selection of winter activities, Big Bear is one of the best ski resorts near New York City.