Winter Wonderland: Killington Ski Area
Experience the ultimate alpine adventure at Killington Ski Area in Vermont, where thrilling slopes, stunning views, and year-round activities await.
Nestled in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains, Killington Ski Area is a premier destination for snow enthusiasts. Known as the 'Beast of the East,' it boasts the largest vertical drop in New England and offers an extensive trail system that caters to all skill levels. With over 150 trails spread across six peaks, Killington promises endless adventure and breathtaking alpine views. Killington is not just about skiing and snowboarding; it’s a year-round playground. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and scenic gondola rides. The après-ski scene is vibrant with a variety of dining options, from cozy slopeside restaurants to lively bars and nightclubs. In the warmer months, the area transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing, making it a versatile destination for outdoor lovers. The town of Killington itself offers a charming retreat with its quaint shops, local eateries, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you are seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing getaway, Killington Ski Area provides a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse activities, it’s a destination that promises memorable experiences for every visitor.
Local tips in Killington Ski Area
- Book your accommodation early, especially during peak ski season, as lodgings fill up quickly.
- Check the weather and trail conditions daily to make the most of your ski experience.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle service within the resort to navigate easily between different areas.
- Try the local maple syrup and cheddar cheese – Vermont specialties that are a must-try.
- Visit the Killington Adventure Center in the summer for a range of activities from zip-lining to an alpine coaster.
Winter Wonderland: Killington Ski Area
Nestled in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains, Killington Ski Area is a premier destination for snow enthusiasts. Known as the 'Beast of the East,' it boasts the largest vertical drop in New England and offers an extensive trail system that caters to all skill levels. With over 150 trails spread across six peaks, Killington promises endless adventure and breathtaking alpine views. Killington is not just about skiing and snowboarding; it’s a year-round playground. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and scenic gondola rides. The après-ski scene is vibrant with a variety of dining options, from cozy slopeside restaurants to lively bars and nightclubs. In the warmer months, the area transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and golfing, making it a versatile destination for outdoor lovers. The town of Killington itself offers a charming retreat with its quaint shops, local eateries, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you are seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure or a relaxing getaway, Killington Ski Area provides a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility. With its picturesque landscapes and diverse activities, it’s a destination that promises memorable experiences for every visitor.
When is the best time to go to Killington Ski Area?
Unmissable attractions to see
Killington Resort
Discover the thrill of Killington Resort, Vermont's premier ski destination offering year-round outdoor adventures and breathtaking mountain views.
Green Mountain National Forest
Explore the majestic Green Mountain National Forest, Vermont's premier destination for outdoor adventures and breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for all nature lovers.
Sugarbush Farm
Discover the flavors of Vermont at Sugarbush Farm, where artisanal cheese and maple syrup come together in a picturesque setting.
Billings Farm & Museum
Explore the rich agricultural heritage of Vermont at Billings Farm & Museum, where history comes alive through interactive exhibits and farm experiences.
Pico Mountain Ski Resort
Discover Pico Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont's enchanting destination for skiing, snowboarding, and family-friendly winter adventures.
Snowshed Lodge
Discover Snowshed Lodge: A premier ski resort in Killington, Vermont, offering thrilling slopes, family-friendly activities, and stunning mountain views.
Thundering Brook Falls Trail
Experience the beauty of Vermont at Thundering Brook Falls Trail—an ideal hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Calvin Coolidge Historic Site
Discover the Calvin Coolidge Historic Site, a captivating destination in Vermont that reveals the life and legacy of President Coolidge amidst stunning natural beauty.
Pine Hill Park
Discover Pine Hill Park, a breathtaking natural retreat in Rutland, Vermont, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Killington Skyeship Base Lodge
Discover skiing and dining at the Killington Skyeship Base Lodge, a premier destination in the heart of Vermont's stunning Green Mountains.
Ramshead Lodge
Discover Ramshead Lodge in Killington, Vermont – a premier ski resort offering thrilling slopes, family-friendly activities, and stunning mountain views.
New England Maple Museum
Explore the sweet heritage of Vermont at the New England Maple Museum, where maple syrup production comes to life in an engaging and educational setting.
Gifford Woods State Park
Explore Gifford Woods State Park: A tranquil retreat in the heart of Vermont's Green Mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures and nature lovers.
Killington Bear Mountain Lodge
Discover the thrill of winter sports at Killington Bear Mountain Lodge, Vermont's premier ski resort, nestled in the breathtaking Green Mountains.
Coolidge State Forest
Explore the natural beauty of Coolidge State Forest in Vermont, a serene escape perfect for hiking, picnicking, and reconnecting with nature.
Essential places to dine
The Lookout Tavern
Discover delicious food and stunning views at The Lookout Tavern in Killington – your perfect dining destination.
The Garlic
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with Mediterranean flair at The Garlic in Killington – where every meal is a celebration of flavors.
Casey's Caboose
Discover Casey's Caboose in Killington: A perfect blend of seafood delights and succulent steaks await you at this charming restaurant.
Wobbly Barn
Discover Killington's vibrant nightlife at Wobbly Barn - where great steaks meet live music and unforgettable dancing!
The Rivershed Killington
Discover culinary excellence at The Rivershed Killington – where BBQ meets creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.
Preston's
Discover Preston's in Killington: A delightful blend of fine dining and casual atmosphere with local flavors and extensive drink selections.
Jerk Jamaican Mountain Grill
Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine at Jerk Jamaican Mountain Grill in Killington, where vibrant flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Killington Distillery - Still on the Mountain
Discover Killington Distillery: A premier spot for craft spirits nestled in Vermont's breathtaking mountains offering delicious cocktails and local cuisine.
Ledgewood Yurt
Discover Ledgewood Yurt: A charming American dining experience in Killington, Vermont's stunning landscapes.
The Clubhouse Grill
Discover The Clubhouse Grill in Killington - where delicious food meets vibrant atmosphere amidst stunning Vermont scenery.
The Freerider Killington
Discover delightful dining at The Freerider Killington - where great food meets vibrant atmosphere in beautiful Vermont.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowshed Lodge
Discover the winter magic at Snowshed Lodge, a premier ski resort in Killington, Vermont, offering thrilling slopes and cozy retreat.
Liquid Art Restaurant
Discover the unique blend of art and gastronomy at Liquid Art Restaurant in Killington, Vermont, where every meal is a masterpiece.
JAX Food & Games
Discover JAX Food & Games, a vibrant restaurant in Killington, Vermont, offering delicious food, live music, and endless entertainment.
Killington Market and Deli
Explore the local flavors at Killington Market and Deli, your go-to grocery store and deli in the heart of Killington, Vermont.
Sunup Bakery
Discover the delightful flavors of Sunup Bakery in Killington, Vermont, offering freshly baked pastries, breakfast, and coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Darkside Snowboards, Killington, Vermont
Discover top-notch snowboarding gear and rentals at Darkside Snowboards in Killington, Vermont, your go-to shop for winter sports enthusiasts.
First Stop Board Barn - Ski, Bike, Snowboard & Paddle Shop
Explore the outdoors with First Stop Board Barn in Killington, Vermont—your one-stop shop for skiing, biking, snowboarding, and paddling gear.
Northern Ski Works
Discover top-notch ski gear and expert services at Northern Ski Works in Killington, Vermont, your ultimate winter sports destination.
Basin Sports
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch ski, snowboard, and bicycle gear at Basin Sports in Killington, Vermont.
Forerunner Ski Shop
Discover the best ski gear and rental services at Forerunner Ski Shop in Killington, Vermont – your one-stop shop for winter sports adventure.
Root's Ski & Snowboard Shop
Explore winter thrills at Root's Ski & Snowboard Shop in Killington, Vermont, your premier destination for ski and snowboard rentals.
Killington Ski Area
Experience the exhilarating slopes and stunning vistas of Killington Ski Area, Vermont's premier winter sports destination for all adventurers.
Peak Performance Ski Shop
Discover the ultimate winter sports experience at Peak Performance Ski Shop, your one-stop destination for ski gear and rentals in Killington, Vermont.
Killington Bike Park
Experience the ultimate mountain biking adventure at Killington Bike Park, where stunning trails meet breathtaking Vermont scenery.
Base Camp
Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear and expert advice at Base Camp, your go-to destination in Killington, Vermont.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sushi Yoshi
Discover the exquisite flavors of Japan and China at Sushi Yoshi, Killington's premier destination for sushi and Asian cuisine.
The Lookout Tavern
Experience the best of Killington at The Lookout Tavern, where delicious food, craft drinks, and stunning mountain views come together.
The Garlic
Discover the rich flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean at The Garlic, a culinary delight in Killington, Vermont.
The Foundry at Summit Pond
Discover a culinary paradise at The Foundry at Summit Pond, where exquisite dining meets live music in the heart of Killington, Vermont.
Casey's Caboose
Experience the best of Killington dining at Casey's Caboose, where seafood and steak come together in a cozy bar and restaurant setting.
Liquid Art Restaurant
Discover the unique blend of fine dining and artistic ambiance at Liquid Art Restaurant in Killington, Vermont, where every meal is a masterpiece.
Wobbly Barn
Discover Wobbly Barn: A premier steakhouse and live music venue in Killington, offering a vibrant atmosphere and unforgettable dining experiences.
JAX Food & Games
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, live music, and fun games at JAX Food & Games in Killington, Vermont.
Back Country Cafe
Experience the charm of Back Country Cafe in Killington, Vermont, offering delicious brunch and lunch options in a cozy ski-lodge atmosphere.
Inn at Long Trail
Experience the rustic charm of the Inn at Long Trail, your cozy retreat in Killington, Vermont, surrounded by stunning nature and vibrant local culture.
McGrath's Irish Pub
Discover McGrath's Irish Pub: a cozy retreat in Killington, Vermont, where authentic Irish cuisine meets a vibrant atmosphere and friendly service.
Charity's 1887 Saloon
Discover the unique charm of Charity's 1887 Saloon in Killington, Vermont, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a historic setting.
The Rivershed Killington
Experience the heart of Vermont cuisine at The Rivershed Killington, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler.
Preston's
Discover Preston's in Killington, where fine dining meets a lively bar atmosphere, perfect for families and sports enthusiasts alike.
Choices Restaurant
Experience the flavors of Vermont at Choices Restaurant, a cozy American dining gem in Killington, offering diverse dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Local Phrases about Killington Ski Area
-
- HelloHowdy
[haw-dee] - GoodbyeSee ya
[see yah] - YesYup
[yuhp] - NoNah
[nuh] - Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
[pleez/no prob-lem] - Thank youThanks
[thanks] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
[par-dun me/my bad] - How are you?How's it goin'?
[hows it go-in] - Fine. And you?Good. And you?
[good. and yuh?] - Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
[yah speak ing-glish] - I don't understandI'm lost
[im lost]
- HelloHowdy
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check the menu?
[kan eye chek thee men-yoo] - I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
[i dont eet meet] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle the bill, please
[eye-d like to set-ul thee bill pleez]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check the menu?
-
- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Get lost!
[get lost] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[call thee cops] - Call a doctor!Get a doc!
[get uh doc] - I'm lostI'm lost
[im lost] - I'm illI'm sick
[im sick]
- Help!Help!
-
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
[eye wanna buy] - I'm just lookingJust browsing
[just brows-ing] - How much is it?How much does it cost?
[how much duz it cost] - That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
[thats uh bit steep] - Can you lower the price?Can ya bring the price down?
[kan yah bring thee price down]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
-
- What time is it?What's the time?
[whats thee time] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[its one oh-clock] - Half past (10)Half past (10)
[half past ten] - MorningMorning
[morn-ing] - AfternoonAfternoon
[after-noon] - EveningEvening
[even-ing] - YesterdayYesterday
[yester-day] - TodayToday
[to-day] - TomorrowTomorrow
[tom-or-row] - 1One
[wun] - 2Two
[too] - 3Three
[three] - 4Four
[four] - 5Five
[five] - 6Six
[six] - 7Seven
[seven] - 8Eight
[ate] - 9Nine
[nine] - 10Ten
[ten]
- What time is it?What's the time?
-
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
[wheres thee] - What's the address?What's the address?
[whats thee address] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
[kan yah show mee (on thee map)] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
[whens thee next (bus)] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[uh ticket (to)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
History of Killington Ski Area
-
Killington Ski Area was founded in 1958 by Preston Leete Smith. Smith's vision was to create a ski resort that would rival those found in the western United States. The area was chosen for its high elevation and consistent snowfall, which made it ideal for skiing. The first ski trails were cut on Pico Peak, and the resort gradually expanded to include the six peaks that make up Killington today.
-
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Killington Ski Area saw rapid development and expansion. New lifts were installed, including the first gondola in the eastern United States. The resort also added new trails and expanded its snowmaking capabilities. During this time, Killington became known as 'The Beast of the East' due to its extensive terrain and challenging slopes.
-
In 1966, Killington hosted its first World Cup event, putting it on the map as a destination for international ski competitions. This event helped to elevate the resort's profile and attract more visitors from around the world. The World Cup became an annual tradition, drawing top skiers and large crowds to the area.
-
The late 20th century saw Killington Ski Area making significant strides in environmental and technological advancements. The resort invested heavily in snowmaking technology, ensuring consistent skiing conditions throughout the winter season. Additionally, Killington took steps to preserve the natural environment, implementing sustainable practices and initiatives to protect the local ecosystem.
-
In recent years, Killington Ski Area has continued to evolve and grow. The resort has introduced new amenities, such as the Killington Adventure Center, and expanded its summer activities to include mountain biking, hiking, and golf. Killington also remains a popular destination for winter sports, hosting events like the Audi FIS Ski World Cup and attracting visitors from around the globe.
-
Killington Ski Area has had a significant impact on the local community and culture. The resort has created numerous jobs and contributed to the economic growth of the region. Additionally, Killington has fostered a strong sense of community among both residents and visitors, with events, festivals, and activities that celebrate the area's rich history and vibrant culture.
Killington Ski Area Essentials
-
Killington Ski Area is located in central Vermont, USA. The nearest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), approximately 90 miles northwest of Killington. From Burlington, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the ski area. Alternatively, you can fly into Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) or Albany International Airport (ALB), both approximately 150 miles away. From these airports, rental cars, buses, and shuttle services are available. Amtrak also offers train services to Rutland, Vermont, which is about a 30-minute drive from Killington.
-
Once in Killington, the easiest way to get around is by car. Several car rental agencies operate in the area. During the ski season, the Killington Resort offers a free shuttle service, the 'Killington K-1 Express Shuttle,' which connects various lodging properties and points of interest within the resort. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available but may have limited availability, especially during peak times.
-
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Most businesses in Killington accept major credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. ATMs are readily available at the resort and in nearby towns. While digital payments are widely accepted, it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and tips.
-
Killington is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas like the ski lifts and lodges. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always wise to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Late at night, stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.
-
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facility is Rutland Regional Medical Center, located about 30 minutes away in Rutland. Killington Resort also has ski patrol and first aid stations throughout the ski area. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially if you plan to engage in skiing or snowboarding.
-
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof jackets and snow boots. Don't wear cotton fabrics while skiing or snowboarding, as they can absorb moisture and cause discomfort. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and traditions. While Vermont is not particularly religious, it's always good to be mindful. Public Transport: Do use the free shuttle services provided by the resort. Don't expect extensive public transport options, as they are limited. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Vermonters are generally friendly and approachable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Vermont maple syrup, cheese, and craft beers. Don't forget to tip your servers; a standard tip of 15-20% is customary in restaurants.
-
To experience Killington like a local, visit the local farmers' markets and craft fairs, where you can find unique Vermont products. Engage with locals at the apres-ski bars and restaurants to get insider tips on the best trails and hidden spots. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby town of Woodstock, known for its charming New England architecture and shops. For a unique experience, try snowshoeing or fat biking on the resort's extensive trail network.
Nearby Cities to Killington Ski Area
-
Things To Do in Rutland
-
Things To Do in Woodstock
-
Things To Do in Hanover
-
Things To Do in Middlebury
-
Things To Do in Montpelier
-
Things To Do in Keene
-
Things To Do in Brattleboro
-
Things To Do in Bennington
-
Things To Do in Stowe
-
Things To Do in Saratoga Springs
-
Things To Do in Burlington
-
Things To Do in Laconia
-
Things To Do in Lake Placid
-
Things To Do in Albany
-
Things To Do in Nashua