Ski Killington, Vermont

Killington is by far one of the best ski resorts in the northeast USA! I say this because it's a resort that opens first, closes last, has the second highest vertical drop in the northeast, 141 trails and 70 miles of diverse and spacious terrain, and a large assortment of accommodations and nightlife to suit any budget and desire. It's what I would call a genuine ski town!

By northeast standards, the resort is big, real big! They offer 141 trails (39% most difficult, 33% more difficult, and 28% easy) serviced by 22 lifts and a 3,050 foot vertical drop off the 4,241 foot high Killington Peak summit. Regardless of your skiing ability, you'll find your niche on any of the six connected mountains. You'll find the most challenging terrain spread across Killington Peak and Bear Mountain. If you're just starting out, stick to the Snowshed area. If you stumble across "Outer Limits" - be careful, it's a double black diamond mogul trail and the steepest mogul run in New England.

The resort is located in central Vermont about 15 miles east of Rutland and easy to reach from the Burlington, Vermont or Albany, New York international airports. Accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife are concentrated all along the Killington Mountain Access Road, but since Rutland is Vermont"s second largest city, there is plenty there as well. The only problem with staying in Rutland is the 1/2 hour drive from your hotel, plus you'll loose a lot of that ski town feel by not staying at one of the many hotels, inns, and B&B's near the mountain. Overall, there are around 120 inns, lodges and condos at Killington and more than 40 easting and drinking establishments.

For luxury accommodations, stay at The Killington Grand. This is Killington Resort's flagship luxury hotel and features ski out access to the mountain, hotel rooms, studios, and suites, Ovations Restaurant & Rendezvous Lounge, The Killington Grand Spa, a heated outdoor pool with breathtaking mountain views, hot tubs, and an exercise room. Interested in less expensive accommodations? click here for a listing of all lodging around the area.

Having skied here often, here is my short list of places you'll want to check out!

Casey's Caboose - free wings during happy hour or dinner in the authentic caboose!

Outback Pizza - brick-oven pizza, draft beer, and a fireplace surrounded by comfortable seating.

Pickle Barrel - four bars, three levels, two stages - need I say more...

Wobbly Barn Steakhouse - a Killington mainstay! Consistently ranked Top 10 for Apres Ski!

For a more elegant dining and ambiance experience in a quite atmosphere, I highly recommend The Countryman's Pleasure Restaurant & Tavern. It's located in Mendon, about 15 minutes from Killington on your way towards Rutland, but well worth the drive. The establishment features fine Austrian, German, and American culinaries served in a casual atmosphere with candlelight and warm open fires. Their Thanksgiving dinner menu is really good!

Oh, and make sure you ski Pico Mountain. The ski area is located next door to Killington, offers more moderate terrain within a rustic atmosphere, and great views of the surrounding countryside.

www.onlySkiing.com - your adventure starts here...