Skiing is one of the most thrilling activities you can enjoy during the winter months. Some people do it to stay physically active, while others do it for their own personal enjoyment and to create some great memories with their loved ones. You’ll find numerous ski resorts and destinations near New York State offering unique experiences.
Near New York State, people ski in mountain resorts like Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, Camelback Ski Resort, and Catamount Mountain Resort. Each destination offers unique terrain and snow conditions, so skiers must choose a destination that is well-suited to their abilities.
Keep reading to discover interesting skiing destinations near New York State and everything you can expect when you visit them.
1. Belleayre Mountain Ski Center
Located in the Catskill Mountains, Belleayre Mountain Ski Center makes for a breathtaking winter getaway in New York. The center provides everything you need for a memorable trip, including ski rentals and lesson packages. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced ski enthusiast, the ski center’s team of professional instructors will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
There are 63 trails on Belleayre Mountain, with 174 skiable acres (70 ha), including glades and parks. Most trails are suitable for intermediate skiers, but you’ll also find easier and more challenging trails. Additionally, skiers will enjoy gliding through 5.7 miles (9.2 km) of cross-country trails while taking in the view of the snow-covered landscape.
With gentle slopes that are perfect for learning how to ski, Belleayre Mountain is the ideal place for beginners. However, as mentioned, intermediate and advanced skiers will also find exciting trails here.
2. Hunter Mountain Resort
Just three hours north of New York City, Hunter Mountain Resort is the perfect place to enjoy skiing and snow tubing. With 320 acres (130 ha) of skiable areas, it features beginner-friendly slopes and terrain parks for more advanced skiers and snowboarders. Those planning to relax and enjoy their winter vacation will love the overall experience the mountain resort offers.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo to call home for a few days or want to stay in a mountainside accommodation for the night, you’re guaranteed to find what you need here. Hunter Mountain Resort offers slopeside vacation rentals for families and groups of all sizes.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be in awe of the stunning mountain views. The lodge is just as impressive, with its cozy rooms and state-of-the-art amenities. At Hunter Mountain, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your long ski weekend.
The resort’s Kaatskill Mountain Club offers the following amenities:
- Conference facilities
- Outdoor hot tub
- Ski storage
- Walk to lifts
- Fitness Room
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Heated pool
- Sauna
- Steam room
Aside from offering excellent accommodation, Hunter Mountain Resort has season-long programs designed for both intermediate and experienced skiers who want to refine their techniques.
And if you just want to explore the mountain at your own pace, guided tours are available. Whatever your level or goals, the resort’s programs will help you feel more confident in your abilities and allow you to make the most of your time on the slopes.
3. Camelback Ski Resort
Located in Tannersville, PA, Camelback Ski Resort will make you fall in love with the Pocono Mountains. It offers stunning views of the landscape, 166 acres (67 ha) of skiable areas, and a variety of activities to keep you busy. You can enjoy snow tubing, skiing, or snowboarding on the slopes, and the resort is just 2-3 hours away from New York City.
While skiing and snowboarding require a bit of skill and coordination, snow tubing at Camelback Ski Resort is the perfect activity for those looking to enjoy the snow without exerting too much effort. And while it may be considered the easy way out by some, it can be just as exhilarating as any other winter activity. Camelback Ski Resort has over 40 lanes for snow tubers and offers two-hour snow tubing sessions.
Skiers who love a challenge can test their limits on the 800 ft. (243.84 m) vertical rise at Camelback Ski Resort. With its long, steep slopes, the resort offers an opportunity for skiers who want to improve and finetune their skills. And with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it’s also a great place to take in the scenery while enjoying winter activities.
Aside from offering mountain adventures, Camelback Mountain Resort is also known for its impressive accommodation, with various rooms and suites. The resort also offers the following:
- Dining options
- Family entertainment
- An indoor waterpark
- A mountain-inspired conference center
Whether you want to relax during your stay or have an adventurous time on the slopes, Camelback Mountain Resort is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy all that the Pocono Mountains have to offer.
4. Catamount Mountain Resort
Situated on the New York and Massachusetts border, Catamount Mountain Resort offers some of the most varied terrains in the area, making it a popular destination for snowboarders and skiers of all skill levels. Its trial ratings are:
- 35% Green Circle (beginner)
- 42% Blue Square (intermediate)
- 23% Black Diamond (expert-only)
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort also features North America’s longest zip line measuring 5,523 feet (1,683.41 m) long. The Catamount Zip Tour is a thrilling ride with a vertical drop of over 1,000 feet (305 meters). So, you’re sure to get an adrenaline rush like never before. And while you’re zip lining, you can enjoy the spectacular views of New York and Western Massachusetts.
At Catamount Mountain Resort, the staff is highly trained and experienced in providing a safe environment for all guests. They are always happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have, and they will ensure that you feel comfortable and safe at all times.
And when it comes to comfort and convenience, the lodgings at the ski resort will offer you a warm welcome. If you want to go skiing as early as possible, you can choose from various mountain-view rooms at the resort, all within 3-10 minutes’ walking distance from the base lodge.
The mountain view rooms include amenities such as:
- A mini-fridge for snacks and beverages
- Bathroom with shower areas
- Cable tv and internet
- Spacious, comfortable beds
5. Thunder Ridge Ski Area
If you’re looking for a beautiful place to race, practice, and spend time with friends, the Thunder Ridge Ski Area in Patterson, New York, might be the right place for you. Those who don’t want to visit some of the bigger mountain resorts in the area choose Thunder Ridge for its beautiful snow-covered slopes and beginner-friendly trails, with a skiable area of 90 acres (36 ha). The resort is just a few hours away from New York and is accessible by public transportation.
Skiing is a great way to enjoy the winter months, but it can be daunting for complete beginners. Luckily, Thunder Ridge Ski Area has beginner-friendly bunny slopes that are perfect for learning the basics.
The snow is well-groomed, especially on bunny slopes, so you don’t have to worry about bumping against any hidden rocks or tree stumps. Additionally, the bunny slopes here are typically shorter and less steep than other trails, so you can take your time practicing and building up your confidence.
And because smaller ski resorts such as Thunder Ridge are less crowded, you can avoid lift lines and enjoy more time on the slopes. They also offer affordable lift tickets and very low prices for rentals.
Lastly, with magic carpets for kids and beginners, Thunder Ridge is a safe area for those just learning to ski. They can go slow and minimize the risk of falling off or getting hit by other skiers.
6. Plattekill Mountain
Situated on the outskirts of the Catskills, Plattekill Mountain attracts skiers and hikers looking for a more authentic, old-school experience. Surrounded by big terrains and 130 acres (52 ha) of skiable area, this family-owned business offers a true mountain experience that the larger, more corporate-like resorts can’t offer.
What sets Plattekill apart from other resorts is its unique small mountain charm. It doesn’t fail to provide skiers with challenging and thrilling experiences. It offers 39 trails and beginner-friendly cruisers that stretch for two miles (3.2 km). And with double black diamonds of 1,100 feet (335 m) vertical drop, the area attracts intermediate and advanced skiers as well.
However, the unique charm of Plattekill Mountain lies in its authentic and adventurous spirit. It’s not rare for hikers and skiers to discover untouched glades with magnificent views. Everyone who visits the place can enjoy various activities that allow them to truly connect with their surroundings.
With almost no lift lines and dozens of fun, challenging terrains, Plattekill Mountain is the perfect destination for old-school skiers who love participating in the sport for the thrill.
7. Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Massachusetts is a skier and snowboarder’s paradise. It is known for its top-tier snowmaking capabilities, night skiing, and proximity to New York City. With 45 skiing and snowboarding trails over 167 acres (67 ha), the site offers plenty of opportunities for skiers to practice, improve their skills, and enjoy the winter season.
Skiers love Jiminy Peak because of its top-notch snowmaking capabilities. With state-of-the-art equipment and a team of experienced professionals, the resort can produce perfect conditions for a great day on the slopes.
In addition to having pristine conditions, Jiminy Peak also offers a variety of other amenities that make for a perfect ski vacation. Skiers can enjoy all the best a mountain resort offers, from country inns to winter dining. Plus, with convenient access to the slopes, there’s no need to spend so much time getting from your room to the lifts.
Additionally, Jiminy Peak offers various programs designed to help beginners and those new to skiing learn the basics in a fun and safe environment. There are both private and group lessons, as well as weekly programs. Because Jiminy Peak offers a variety of enjoyable activities beyond skiing, such as riding the mountain coaster and snowshoeing, people of all skill levels can enjoy the resort.
8. Mohawk Mountain Ski Resort
Just a three-hour drive from New York City, people can enjoy winter activities at Mohawk Mountain in Cornwall, Connecticut. The resort offers 107 acres (43 ha) of skiable terrain, and it’s known for its snowmaking abilities.
When it comes to skiing or riding, a freshly groomed surface is always ideal, and it’s one of the reasons why ski enthusiasts go to Mohawk Mountain. Freshly groomed snow is simply more fun to ski or ride on; it’s fast and smooth and makes for a great day on the slopes.
The ski resort’s freshly groomed surfaces offer the best possible grip for skis and boards, which is essential for safety and performance. The resort’s grooming team takes great pride in their work, and it shows. The perfectly manicured slopes are a joy to look at and ski on.
Additionally, fresh snow is much more forgiving than older, harder surfaces. The latter can create an experience that resembles driving on ice. You need to be very careful and go slowly. If you go too fast, you could easily lose control and crash.
Aside from skiing, Mohawk Mountain is also known for hosting weddings and offering amazing dining experiences. The ski resort’s main lodge is the perfect place to refuel after a long day on the slopes. The lodge dining serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts. You can have a hearty meal to warm you up after a cold day skiing or a light snack for your next adventure.
Many people have chosen to celebrate special occasions at Mohawk Mountain. The high ceilings and exposed beams of its main lodge give the space a feeling of grandeur, while the large windows let in natural light and provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
9. Gore Mountain Ski Resort
Gore Mountain is New York’s largest ski resort, with a skiable area of 428 acres (173 ha). Situated in the Adirondack Mountains, it’s a popular winter destination among skiers of all skill levels.
The resort offers skiers a range of trails, from easy greens to challenging blacks. And while each skier has their own preferences, it’s no secret that everyone appreciates mountain resorts with diverse terrain.
You can ski through trees, down a wide open bowl, or across sweet glades at Gore Mountain. And with various trails comes various challenges, which keep things interesting for skiers of all levels.
Another reason why skiers visit Gore Mountain is the scenery. There’s something special about skiing in the Adirondack Mountains that you won’t find anywhere else. From the fresh powder to the towering peaks, the area offers skiers a breathtaking experience.
Even young members of the family can enjoy what Gore Mountain offers. To help guests, especially little kids, get around, there are gondolas that take visitors to the peak. The gondolas offer a comfortable and convenient way to get stunning views of the mountains.
Last but not least, the resort’s snowmaking capabilities set it apart from other winter destinations. The mountain has tapped into the Hudson River for a new snowmaking water source, greatly enhancing its snowmaking capabilities.
The Hudson River is a natural cold water source, perfect for making snow. And because the river is so large, there’s plenty of water to go around. This is good news for skiers and snowboarders who want to hit the slopes early and often.
10. Mount Peter Ski Area
Mount Peter is one of the closest ski areas to New York City. New Yorkers who are looking for a smaller winter getaway that’s close to home often choose this place. A short one-hour drive to the mountains is all it takes to enjoy some fresh air and breathtaking views.
Aside from being near the city, Mount Peter is popular for its free beginner ski lessons and snowboarding school, which helps create a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the area. Skiing can be expensive, so being able to try it for free is a great opportunity for many.
At Mount Peter, skiing isn’t just about the lessons. The ski area is also a great place to play and explore. There are plenty of gentle slopes for beginners to practice on, as well as challenging terrain for those looking for a thrill. And when guests are ready to take a break, there’s a cozy lodge with hot chocolate waiting.
Ski lessons start with the basics, such as putting on skis and standing up. Once students are comfortable, they move on to more advanced techniques, such as turning and stopping. By the end of the lesson, most students can ski down the bunny hill with confidence.
The instructors at Mount Peter Ski Resort make learning fun for kids of all ages. They are patient and encouraging, and they make sure that each student feels successful by the end of the lesson.
Families with young children will find it easy to enjoy the slopes and engage in winter activities. Aside from offering skiing lessons for kids, Mount Peter has a family restaurant and well-maintained facilities. Having access to quality skiing and snowboarding lessons can help young kids learn and progress quickly.