Coming off not only one, but two near record breaking seasons with over 4.5 million skier visits each, Vermont is once again paving the path to a stellar ski and snowboard season. The state boasted 12 resorts open for skiing, riding and even Nordic skiing as of Nov. 22, and expects at least one other opening prior to Thanksgiving. This time last season Vermont had a record breaking ten resorts open the weekend before Thanksgiving.
“There isn’t a better way to kick off the ski and snowboard season in Vermont than with cold temperatures, natural snow, and 13 resorts open for business before Thanksgiving,” said Ski Vermont President Parker Riehle. “The momentum from two successful seasons prior has definitely added to the success of this early season, as we saw over $15 million in efficient snowmaking upgrades over the summer among other improvements. Clearly, these investments are already paying off.”
Killington Resort, home to the longest season in the East, has continuously been open since Nov. 3 and is boasting 17 trails with more expected to open for the holiday weekend.
Okemo Mountain Resort also opened early on Nov. 16, while Stowe and Jay Peak opened for season pass holders Nov. 15 and 21, respectively. Mount Snow Resort, Bromley Mountain, Sugarbush Resort, Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Stowe and Jay Peak will opened to the public Saturday, Nov. 22 and Stratton Mountain Resort is expected to open Wednesday, Nov. 26.
Cross-country resorts are also breaking records this season with the help of new snowmaking equipment and cold temperatures. Vermont has never experienced this many open Nordic resorts so early in the season. Trapp Family Lodge, Riker Nordic Center, Craftsbury Outdoor Center, and Okemo Valley Nordic Center all were planned to open Nov. 22. For more info visit skivermont.com.
