Killington Resort is the largest ski area in the eastern United States by trail count, with 155 trails spread across six interconnected peaks in the Green Mountains of central Vermont. The resort's vertical drop of 3,050 feet — the greatest in New England — allows for long, sustained runs from the summit of Killington Peak, and the diversity of terrain encompasses wide groomed beginner runs at Rams Head to the notorious double-black-diamond Bear Mountain trails. The ski season typically extends from early November into late May, giving Killington the longest ski season in the East and earning it the nickname the Beast of the East. Six peaks — Killington, Skye, Snowdon, Rams Head, Bear Mountain, and Sunrise — are linked by a lift network, with the K-1 Express Gondola providing primary summit access. Snowmaking coverage across virtually the entire mountain allows consistent operations even in marginal natural snow years. The resort village on Killington Road, roughly two miles from the mountain access, provides a dense concentration of lodges, restaurants, bars, and après-ski venues. Beyond skiing, the mountain operates a downhill mountain bike park in summer with gondola-accessed trails, and the Killington Golf Course provides a scenic Green Mountain round. During foliage season, the gondola offers aerial views over the Green Mountain National Forest at peak color. The terrain park at Skye Peak features a halfpipe, large jumps, and rails for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. Most ski visitors plan a full day; multi-day stays are common for those wanting to cover all six peaks.
Good to know
- Hours
- Ski season: 9 AM–4 PM (early November to late May); summer mountain biking June–October
- Best time
- January–March for snow; October for foliage gondola
Location
4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
43.6045, -72.7996 View on map
Highlights
- 155 trails across six peaks with 3,050 feet of vertical — the longest runs and greatest vertical drop in New England
- Ski season extending from early November to late May, giving Killington the longest season in the eastern United States
- Snowmaking system covering nearly the entire mountain ensures consistent conditions in low-natural-snow years
- Terrain park at Skye Peak with halfpipe, large jumps, and rails for freestyle skiers and snowboarders
- Summer mountain bike park with gondola-accessed trails and a foliage-season scenic gondola ride in October
Tips for visiting
- Purchase multi-day Ikon Pass or resort-specific passes well in advance — single-day walk-up pricing is significantly higher than online rates
- Start at the K-1 Gondola for summit access and work down from Killington Peak early, before runs become crowded by mid-morning
- Weekdays in January and February have noticeably shorter lift lines; Presidents' Week is the busiest stretch of the season
- Use the free Killington Road shuttle between the village lodges and mountain base rather than driving between venues
- Terrain parks close for safety inspections on Monday mornings — plan freestyle sessions for Tuesday through Sunday
When to visit
January through March offers the best combination of snowfall, snowmaking, and full mountain operations. The gondola foliage ride in early to mid-October is an excellent non-skiing visit option with sweeping color views.
Accessibility
Killington's Adaptive Sports program provides sit-ski, tethering, and outrigger instruction for skiers with physical disabilities. The main base lodges are accessible. Contact the resort's adaptive program in advance to arrange equipment and instruction.
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Frequently asked questions
How long should a visit to Killington take?
A typical ski day runs 9 AM to 4 PM. Experienced skiers wanting to cover all six peaks benefit from at least two days. Summer gondola and mountain bike visits typically take 3–5 hours.
Is Killington Resort suitable for beginner skiers?
Yes — Rams Head is dedicated to beginner and intermediate terrain, with its own learning area and lift. The resort's ski school operates from multiple base lodges.
Is photography allowed on the mountain?
Personal photography is permitted throughout the resort. Helmet camera use is common and permitted. Drone operation requires advance approval and is subject to FAA airspace regulations.