Home Views from the Notch Condé Nast Traveler: The Best Vermont Ski Resorts for Fresh Powder and Picturesque Peaks

Condé Nast Traveler: The Best Vermont Ski Resorts for Fresh Powder and Picturesque Peaks

3 Mountain Logo

The name of this resort is a throwback to the early 19th century when smugglers would make their way through these woods with contraband goods to and from the Canadian border. The ski resort here is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, its excellent ski school, and a trail system that skews beginner and intermediate. But don’t make the mistake of thinking there aren’t thrills to be found here—it’s home to the Black Hole, the only triple black diamond on the East Coast.

Stats: Eight lifts access a network of 78 trails that are spread out, with 17 percent beginner, 53 percent intermediate, and 31 percent advanced.

The pass situation: Even on weekends, an adult pass is just $95—a relative steal compared to other mountains these days. The resort puts a cap on the number of lift tickets sold in a single day, so it’s best to purchase online in advance.

Where to eat and drink nearby: Don’t sleep on the Village Waffle Cabin. There are many such snack offerings at ski resorts around New England (and the country), but the one here is particularly good. There’s also a Scoop Shop from local ice cream legend Ben & Jerry’s located in the Village Lodge. For something more refined, Hearth & Candle offers hearty steaks and fresh seafood, as well as a robust wine list (reservations required). Read more…

Share this post

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • Weather

    Current Conditions

    25°F Snow (light snow)

    Sterling and Madonna 2 Lift are presently on wind hold. Winter Storm Warning another 11 inches of new snow possible in the next 24 hours.

    View Full Snow Report

    Extended Forecast

    Today

    1/2/25

    Snow (snow)
    Max 27°F / Min 19°F

    Friday

    1/3/25

    Snow (light snow)
    Max 20°F / Min 14°F

    Saturday

    1/4/25

    Snow (light snow)
    Max 14°F / Min 10°F

    Trail & Lift Status

    7 out of 78 open

    Trails Open

    7 out of 78 groomed

    Groomed

    3 out of 8 open

    Lifts Open

    Snow Totals

    6″inches

    New Snowfall

    105″inches

    Season Total

    Snow Depths

    Natural Snow Depth: “

    Man-Made Snow Depth: 12 to 40″

    Snow Surfaces

    Primary: Powder

    Secondary: Packed Powder

Notifications

  • Celebrate the Magic of the Holiday Season at Smuggs!

    Today through January 2, 2025

    View the Holiday Schedule