On the Road with Ikon Pass :: A Week in Vermont
Hi pals!
By now I’m sure you’re familiar with my adventures with Ikon Pass over the years (some recent faves included a trip to Alta and Steamboat). With over 50 destinations, I’ve found myself in some truly incredible places every season. With that said, sometimes there’s truly nothing better than getting back on your home mountain.
For me, that would be the mountains in Vermont (with Stratton being my no. 1 go-to). If you’re planning on a week long ski vacation in the state, it’s easy to hop from Stratton to Killington and then up to Sugarbush. All three are unique mountains that offer something for every type of skier - and even the exclusive après skier ;) .
Sugarbush Resort
Located in the Mad River Valley, Sugarbush has a friendly, locals only vibe. Driving along And with a ride on the Slide Brook Express Quad, you’ve earned bragging rights as being on the longest and fastest detachable quad in the world -installed in 1995, this chairlift travels a total of 11,012 feet between Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen!
Pro tips :: For incredible views of the surrounding Green Mountains, head up the Heaven’s Gate Triple to the viewing platform on the Lincoln Peak summit.
In the fall, the mountain is a rainbow of red and gold. If driving along rt. 17, make sure to stop in the Appalachian Gap parking area to take in the beautiful valley views. For a true New England experience, make sure to stop by the Warren General Store on your way out of town - the perfect pitstop to stock up on maple syrup, baked goods, and deli sandwiches before you hit the road!
Killington Ski Resort
With the longest running ski season in the East, the “Beast” is definitely a mountain like no other! Whether you’re a Rutland local getting in some afternoon laps to hit those 100 days, or brand new to snow sports, Killington will embrace you with open arms. The drive up to the mountain has everything for out-of-towners, from lodging to dining options, and tons of ski shops to grab any gear you might need.
On mountain, there’s multiple base lodges (and gondolas!) to spread skiers and riders out and get you up top in no time. With over 1,500 skiable acres (with 70+ trails) - not to mention adjacent Ikon Pass mountain, Pico, I definitely recommend planning a few days to fully explore the resort.
Pro tip :: for a full “lazy river” experience, take Blue Heaven to the Solitude trail - spanning over 3 miles, it makes for a tranquil ride that takes you all the way down to Bear Mountain Base Camp.
Stratton Mountain Resort
Out of the three Vermont destinations mentioned, Stratton will always feel most like HOME. It’s also incredibly family friendly - in terms of activities based both on and off mountain. With their pedestrian village at the base that takes you to multiple lodging and dining options, to ice skating, Nordic skiing, tubing, and snowmobiling all on site, you can easily spend several days at the resort without ever stepping foot on a lift!
Of course, the main attraction is the skiing and riding - and with 99 trails and more than 160 acres of gladed skiing, there’s something for every experience level to enjoy. My favorites are Polar Bear, Work Road (especially on a powder day - it’s beautiful to ski in this little snow ghost tunnel!), and Upper Middle Brook.
Pro Tip :: Stratton allows uphill travel! In the Spring it’s worth taking the last gondola ride to hike the 1.5 out and back firetower trail. Take in some beautiful golden hour light on surrounding peaks, then enjoy having the mountain to yourself on your run down.
To explore and book your trip + activities, head to Stratton’s site here !
With the 21/22 season winding down in the East, it’s the perfect time to start planning your dream ski trip to Vermont for next year! Make sure to renew/purchase your Ikon Pass for next season before April 22 to lock in the best prices!
* For first timers visiting the Northeast to ski, Ikon Pass offers concierge travel services and booking expertise through their Ikon Pass Travel site! Learn more here .
xo
J.