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Killington Ski Resort Profile |
By Kellie K. Speed Killington Resort is one of the most popular ski destinations in New England so be sure to do some extra planning to ensure a fun-filled adventure. The massive slopeside parking lots tend to fill up by early afternoon so arrive early to get a spot. The resort is also one of the largest ski areas, consisting of 88 miles of terrain, seven mountains and 30 lifts with 191 ski and snowboard trails. The mountain delivers an average of 250 inches of natural snow each season. When weather does not permit natural snow, there are more than 1,400 snow guns on hand to do the trick. The mountain is open in November and closes in April (one of the longest seasons on the East Coast) so it is very popular with locals purchasing season passes. Don't miss the K-1 gondola, which travels over a mile to the top of the whopping 4,241 foot summit, which is also the highest point in New England reached by an aerial lift. From here, you can check out five states (New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Massachusetts and New York) and parts of Canada can also be seen. This past season, Killington Resort celebrated its 50th anniversary and debuted "The Stash, a freestyle riding experience. Whether you are looking for smooth long runs or a bunny slope to get started, Killington is ideal for both novice and expert skiers as well as snowboarders. Killington Grand Resort Hotel is located just a short distance from the Killington Mountain ski area. It is also 14 miles from the Norman Rockwell Museum, 20 miles from Woodstock, and 40 miles from Manchester. This is the most popular hotel and fills up very quickly during the winter months. Hotel amenities here include an exercise room, two hot tubs, outdoor pool and nice restaurant. Be sure to request a studio or suite accommodations, which come complete with a kitchenette. There are numerous other properties along the Killington access road in case the property is sold out. While some of the gondolas often have long lift lines, they do move quickly so be patient. The mountain has a free bus service to the different mountains so be sure to inquire at the base of the mountain where the pickup and dropoff locations are. All Killington's Kids Daily Programs are Max 3 and Max 5, which includes one instructor per every three or five kids, depending upon the age. In addition, all children's programs booked in advance include a Sherpa Service, which assists parents with kids equipment from the car to the lodge and throughout the registration process. All Adult Daily Programs are also Max 5. The Killington access road is home to more than 100 restaurants and bars with live music and dancing. For a more relaxed night out, there are several intimate bistros and inns as well as family friendly casual places. During the warmer months, the resort is home to an 18-hole championship golf course, mountain bike park and also offers alpine slides, climbing walls and mini golf. If you are looking for a variety of options from great skiing to dining options, both on and off the mountain, few resorts can match what Killington offers. Killington Resort 4763 Killington Road Killington, VT 05751 (802) 422-6200 www.killington.com Visit our forum for readers' opinions on this resort Kellie Speed is a freelance writer based in Massachusetts. In the winter months, she and her husband can be found on various ski slopes throughout New England. |