You may not have considered New York as a go-to for slopes with downhill skiing. But, in fact, there are a number of mountain resorts close to New York City or 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.
Planning a ski trip this year will require some extra thought. Masks need to be worn everywhere, not just on the slopes. Social distancing is mandatory. And lifts and gondolas are all subject to the capacity reductions imposed by the mountains. It’s imperative that you think ahead if you plan to ski. Most reservations will need to be made ahead of time, and mainly online. Be sure to check out the specific social-distancing and safety rules for each mountain, especially regarding ski lifts and gondolas. You should also book a place to stay before you travel if you plan to do more than a day trip.
Here are seven New York ski areas that will get you through the long, dark months ahead with suggestions for where to stay.
Plattekill
The last of the family-owned ski mountains operating in the Catskills, with an “indie” small-mountain vibe, family-friendly Plattekill has four lifts, a terrain park and 38 trails accommodating beginners to experts. The mountain also offers snowtubing. The new Platty Shack is a fun, socially conscious go-to for takeaway shopping and beverages.
Where to Stay:
The Roxbury at Stratton Falls
With its two properties, The Roxbury adds an unexpected twist to a country hotel and motel with luxury amenities and themed accommodations. Each room and suite will inspire many Instagram moments, a well-deserved sensory reward for a hard day on the slopes.
The Roxbury Motel Big King Themed Room - Angel Hair Room
Belleayre
Belleayre is popular for both day trippers and those wanting to enjoy the area’s inns and BnBs. 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
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.
Emerson Resort & Spa - The Lodge Franz Imperial Room
Hunter
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 Epic Pass providing priority reservations at the mountain and at 34 affiliated Vail Resorts. The mountain offers diverse activities including snowtubing 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:
Scribner’s Catskill Lodge Photo By Read McKendree
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.
Scribner’s Catskill Lodge
Windham Mountain
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. The new Umbrella Bar offers to-go cocktails between the lifts and the base lodge. Check the daily report to see the number of trails and parks open and lifts running each day. The mountain has implemented a new “red day” and “green day” capacity calendar which will tell you whether you can purchase day-of tickets or not. It is advisable to reserve in advance.
Where to Stay:
Whisper Creek Condominiums
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.
Catamount Mountain Resort
Catamount Mountain Resort in the Berkshires Mountains straddles the border of New York and Massachusetts, about two hours from NYC. Skiers here must adhere to travel regulations for both New York and Massachusetts and you’re advised to check daily as rules change frequently. 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:
The Egremont Village Inn
Just over the border from New York into Massachusetts, The Carriage House at The Egremont Village Inn is open throughout the winter.
Whiteface
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 disabled skiers. 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
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
The Whiteface Lodge is reminiscent of a historic Adirondack Great Camp with rustic timber design combined with luxury accommodations and spa.
Bristol Mountain
In the Finger Lakes Region, Bristol 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. This year’s school features small-size bespoke “Pod Lessons” which can include skiers as young as three years old. The mountain’s 38 slopes and trails will please all ages and levels as well.
Where to Stay:
Mountain Horse Farm
Mountain Horse Farm is a B&B farm stay just 10 minutes from the mountain. In this peaceful setting, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy the farm’s horses and cows.
Mountain Horse Farm