Although most people travel to New York for the bustling streets of Manhattan, New York also has a wonderful selection of ski resorts for the more athletically inclined. Read below to learn about some of the top ski resorts in New York state.
1. Windham Mountain
Known for its upscale atmosphere, Windham Mountain is home to six terrain parks, a spa and a golf course. The resort features several terrain parks, from Wraparound Park with basic rails and jumps to the expert course at Wilbur Park which has large tabletops and step ups. Windham’s trails are separated into the East and Main Peaks. At the East Peak, skiers will find many single black diamonds as well as Wanderer, the park’s longest green slope. The Main peak features mostly intermediate and double black diamond trails. Don’t know how to ski? Windham prides itself on its educational programs, such as its OWNIT beginner’s program, for both teens and adults, that gives you a free pair of Rossignol skis upon conclusion! Unwind and kick back any way you want at Windham’s luxury resort.
2. Gore Mountain
Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Gore is geared toward real ski enthusiasts. If you’re a sport lover, this ski park is a great place to start. The park’s most challenging slope is the 1 km long “Rumor.” Visitors can also climb 1700 feet to Bear mountain, on the award-winning Northwoods Gondola. The park hosts 8 different freestyle trails, for both skiing and snowboarding. Potluck is Gore Mountain’s competition level course that features 30-45 foot step downs and several different kinds of boxes to test out your ski tricks. The mountain’s Nordic Center, located in the ski bowl, has groomed snow and lighted tracks for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. For both athletes and ski buffs, Gore is certainly never boring.
3. Hunter Mountain
Hunter Mountain has just added 80 new acres to its north face, increasing its sprawl with five new trails and four new glades. The resort is also known for its top-notch snowmaking, which covers 100 percent of the mountain. If skiers aren’t satisfied with the snow, they can return their ticket by a certain time to get a ski voucher valid until the end of the season. Hunter’s Empire Terrain parks cater to all kinds of skiers. Those just starting out should try out the gentle slopes and easy freestyle courses of “Boston Road” or if you’re looking for a challenge, try Drop Off terrain park, which is meant for experts. Hunter Mountain also offers ice climbing and rappelling for true thrill seekers. This service is offered through a partnership with Alpine Endeavors, who will be your guides in everything from adjusting your gear safely to proper knot tying.
4. Holiday Valley
One of the top rated eastern ski resorts in North America, Holiday Valley is within three hours of major cities like Buffalo, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. Its accessibility makes it a very popular eastern ski destination, as well as its even keeled orientation toward all levels of skiing - 34% beginner, 27% intermediate and 27% advanced. The snow here is from authentic lake water, and the staff are known to be warm and welcoming, which gives Holiday Valley that priceless small town feel. Night Skiing is also a perfect experience in Holiday Valley, with temperatures that remain steady from daylight to nighttime. Look no further for a cozy, soulful ski vacation. Holiday Valley has you covered.
5. Whiteface Mountain
Whiteface is located in Lake Placid, one of the most well known ski towns in the country. It is no small operation, with 87 trails and a peak elevation of 4,867 feet. 2.1 mile Wilmington Trail is the longest single intermediate trail in the entire North East. At Whiteface, you can also go bobsledding and downhill mountain biking, but there’s a reason Lake Placid is one of the best loved ski destinations in the USA. While you’re at Whiteface, make sure to visit Lake Placid’s historic Olympic Center, or take a soaring Cloudsplitter Gondola Ride above Lake Champlain, the Ausable River and the Adirondack Mountains. The Whiteface Mountain experience is a must have for any curious skier exploring the Northeast.