LOCAL DESTINATIONS
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It is time to start planning ski weekends and local day trips to mountains that are within driving distance. Here’s a list of some of our favorites that have proven to be great family mountains.
Ski Rentals
Don’t forget to go early to get your kids ski rentals. The earlier, the better as inventory can become limited.
Day Trips
While these mountains are small, they are the perfect size to get little ones or beginners started on green runs or the magic carpet. All can easily be accessed from Fairfield County and can be done as a day trip.
Overnight Destinations
Stowe, VT : The farthest on our list but well worth the drive! Stowe has an amazing ski school, great terrain, numerous lodging options and lots to do. This is a great mountain for a long weekend or school break. Stowe boasts the highest peak in VT and is now part of the Epic ski pass collection.
Stay: Stowe Mountain Lodge, Top Notch Resort and townhouses at the Green Mountain Inn
Eat: Harvest Market (pick up wine, cheese & other yummy treats), take the chair lift to the Cliff House and enjoy a proper lunch mid-ski day and Piecasso or The Roost for an early kids dinner
Don’t Miss: Stopping at Ben Jerry’s for a Factory Tour, Sleigh rides with Gentle Giants
Manchester, VT: This town has so much for kids and parents to do with Stratton and Bromley easily accessible. Bromley is smaller but the perfect family mountain for little ones or kids who want some independence, all trails lead to one lodge so it is easy to meet up. For the better skiers and those who want more terrain, Stratton is another great family mountain with some nice dining options at the base. Manchester has several hotel options so you have the perfect combination of nearby skiing and access to a charming New England town with a variety of shops and restaurants.
Stay: The Equinox, Kimpton Taconic Hotel, The Hill Farm Inn
Eat: Cooper Grouse, The Perfect Wife Restaurant & Tavern, Zooey’s Deli,
Don’t Miss: Northshire Bookstore (amazing book selection and adjoining café), shopping at the outlets, a visit or cross-country skiing at Hildene
Woodstock, VT: Woodstock is quintessential VT with covered bridges and a picturesque town. Stay at The Woodstock Inn and then daytrip to Killington. Or if your kids are beginners, Suicide Six might be enough mountain for them and is very close to the Inn.
Stay: The Woodstock Inn
Eat: Simon Pearce (an all time favorite), The Red Rooster at the Woodstock Inn, The Prince & The Pauper
Don’t Miss: Dining and glass blowing at Simon Pearce down the road in Quechee, a visit to the Montshire Science Museum in Norwich or a visit to Billings Farm right in Woodstock
