Ski Resorts within Easy Reach from NYC

The attractions of New York City are many, but for those wanting to combine a city break with a skiing trip, or simply to swap the bright lights for the thrills of the slopes, there are a number of ski resorts within easy reach. If you’ve considered to hire a car, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s a viable option for accessing such resorts. So if you’re ready to head for the hills, whether for a day or longer, here are some of the best ski resorts in the vicinity of the Big Apple.

Camelback Mountain Resort, Tannersville, PA

Camelback Mountain Resort is just a two hour drive inland from New York City. It’s a great place for beginners to dip their toe in the water, with a range of covered trails. The resort offers superb value learner packages and a variety of green runs. More experienced skiers can try out the advanced slopes, though experts may find these short and lacking in challenge. Snowboarders can try out their tricks in the terrain park, which has recently been given a revamp. The resort stays open until late at the weekends. Stay at the budget-friendly Days Inn Tannersville or the more upscale Chateau Resort.

Hunter Mountain, Hunter, NY

If it’s a range of winter activities you’re after, the Hunter Mountain could be the place for you. Based in the Catskill Mountains around a two and a half hour drive from New York City, there are a range of covered trails – 56 in total – for all levels, including nine green runs. It could be a better option for more experienced skiers, though like Camelback it can also become crowded at weekends. Snowboarders can have fun on the jumps and rails of the terrain park, while other activities on offer include snow-tubing, horse-riding and zip-lining (the zip-line tour is the longest in the country). Stay at cheerful Mountain View Lodge or upmarket Kaatskill Mountain Club.

Belleayre Mountain, Highmount, NY

If the crowds are too much for you at either Camelback or Hunter Mountain, you might want to check out Belleayre Mountain, also in the Catskills. It’s a little further away from New York City but still within three hours, and is excellent value. The 47 trails on offer include runs for all levels, with 11 for beginners at the base of the mountain and nine black runs for experts at the top of the mountain. Intermediate trails are stretched out between. There’s also a terrain park and a rails park. For those seeking a more relaxed skiing experience, there are six quiet cross-country trails to choose from. Stay at the charming Delaware Court Motel or the indulgent Alpine Osteria.

Catamount, Hillsdale, NY

Located in the picturesque Berkshires within a three hour drive of the city limits, the Catamount resort is great value and perfect for families and improver skiers. 11 of the 33 trails are for novices and there’s a terrain park for snowboarders. Stay at the quaint Holiday House Motel or the chic Swiss Hutte.

Mount Snow, West Dover, VT

Located around four hours from New York City, Mount Snow has 80 trails stretching across the superb scenery of the Green Mountain National Forest. (Tree skiing is also on offer.) There are plenty of gentle beginner runs and 40 intermediate runs for improvers, as well as un-groomed trails and ten parks. You can also go tubing or try a snowmobile tour. Stay at the comfortable Big Bears Lodge or the more luxurious Grand Summit Resort Hotel.