You may not have considered New York as a go-to for slopes with downhill skiing. But, in fact, there are several mountain resorts close to New York City or slightly further afield that will appeal to all levels if you find yourself on the East Coast.
And the good news is that they’re not as far north as the more well-known Eastern ski areas in Vermont.
Some appeal to day-trippers more than others, like Hunter and Windham, while others could be tackled in a long day of skiing and driving but are actually more suitable and enjoyable as overnight trips like the Berkshires, the Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes Regions of Upstate New York.
Here are seven New York ski areas that will get you through the long, dark months ahead with suggestions for where to stay.
1. Plattekill Mountain, Roxbury
The last of the family-owned ski mountains operating in the Catskills, with an “indie” small-mountain vibe, family-friendly Plattekill has four lifts and a terrain park.
The new Platty Shack is a fun, socially conscious go-to for takeaway shopping and beverages.
Where to Stay
The Roxbury Motel adds a quirky twist to a country hotel with luxury amenities and individually themed accommodations. Each room and suite will inspire many Instagram moments, a well-deserved sensory reward for a hard day on the slopes.
2. Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, Highmount
Belleayre is popular for both day-trippers and those wanting to enjoy the area’s inns and B&Bs. The ski center has 50 trails with eight lifts and a gondola offering sweeping views of the Catskill Forest Preserve.
Sustainability and versatility are watchwords at Belleayre, with trails appropriate for both beginners and advanced skiers. Lift tickets must be purchased in advance online, and capacity is limited, with tickets not available on weekends or during blackout periods.
Where to Stay
Emerson Resort & Spa offers luxurious accommodations in the contemporary Inn or Adirondack-style Lodge. The resort also features a spa with nature-inspired treatments and the popular Woodnotes Grille by the river.
3. Vail Resort’s Hunter Mountain in Hunter, New York
Just 2 ½ hours from NYC, Hunter is possibly the most crowded mountain for day-trippers with its 67 trails and 13 lifts.
Owned by Vail Resorts, Hunter is now offering the Epic Pass, providing discounts and unlimited access to 90 affiliated Vail Resorts.
The mountain offers diverse activities, including snow tubing and snowboarding, with ski lessons and trails for all ages and skill levels. Adding to its popularity, the mountain is known for its snowmaking prowess.
Where to Stay
Built in 1966, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge is a distinctive lodge property with contemporary rooms and an outdoor skating rink made of “Glice.” Skates are provided.
4. Windham Mountain in Windham
Windham Mountain is hugely popular with 54 trails and six terrain parks. Families love Windham’s Mountain Adventure Park with its snowtubing, kid snowmobiles, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and lessons for all ages.
There is also a large variety of food and drink options sure to please every member of your party.
Where to Stay
Whisper Creek Condominiums offer high-end ski-in/ski-out lodging right on the slopes within walking distance to the Alpine Spa and the Windham Mountain base lodge.
5. Day and Night Skiing at The Berkshires Mountains
Catamount Mountain Resort in the Berkshires Mountains straddles the border of New York and Massachusetts, about two hours from NYC.
One of the smaller ski areas, Catamount has eight lifts and 36 trails ranging from gentle and intermediate (Green Circle and Blue Square) to expert (Black Diamond and Double Black Diamond), plus terrain parks for more freestyle maneuvers. The mountain also offers Night Skiing.
Where to Stay
Just over the border from New York into Massachusetts, the Buttonball Inn (previously the Egremont Village Inn) is open throughout the winter. This boutique inn offers a range of accommodations, including guest rooms, a cottage and a townhouse.
6. The Adirondacks and the Finger Lakes
The site of the Winter Olympic Games in 1980, Whiteface might have you dreaming of a Gold Medal as you whoosh down the tallest vertical drop in the East.
One of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks, Whiteface has 87 trails and 11 lifts and is equipped to teach anyone who wants to learn to ski, including skiers with disabilities.
The mountain resort also offers bobsledding down an Olympic track on the Cliffside Coaster, groomed Nordic skiing and an Olympic skating experience at the Lake Placid Olympic Center.
Where to Stay
High Peaks Resort offers a choice of stays ranging from traditional with The Resort, to modern at the Lake House, and suites in the Waterfront Collection on the shores of Mirror Lake.
The Whiteface Lodge is reminiscent of a historic Adirondack Great Camp with rustic timber design combined with luxury accommodations and spa.
7. Skiing for All Ages in the Finger Lakes Region
In the Finger Lakes Region, Bristol Mountain in Canandaigua is especially attractive for first-time skiers and snowboarders with group lessons arranged just for them.
Additionally, the SnowSports School has programs for ages seven and older and includes a lift ticket. The mountain’s 38 slopes and trails will please all ages and levels as well.
Where to Stay
Bristol Mountain lists a variety of partner accommodations, from the luxurious: The Lake House on Canandaigua, to charming Bed and Breakfasts like the Brindle and Blonde.
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