Hello all,

I'm trying to plan a trip in Early-Mid December (probably 12th-15th) to Vermont to get some early season skiing in. Probably looking at going to Killington. Can anybody give me some insight on what kind of conditions to expect, # trails open, or is it even worth it to go this time of year?

Are there better options? East Coast only so I can drive from DC.

Thanks

As long as your expectations are realistic, Killington sounds like a good candidate. Typically at that time you are lucky to get a couple dozen runs and 1500' vertical at a place like Killington, but getting skunked with far less is a definite possibility depending on weather. Some other large New England ski resorts to consider because they are known to be aggressive early snowmakers include Stowe, Sugarbush and Sunday River. The crowds should be modest and you can decide if/where to go at the last minute based on current conditions since you don't need flights or advance room reservations.

I'll fully agree with JimK. For this early season, Killington will be the closest major area where snow will be just about guaranteed. Okemo is a runner up. Sunday River is also a good bet, but a haul from DC. Many of the other resorts won't even bother until after Christmas. The best snow in New England is probably Jay Peak, but that's another three hours North. Or Stowe, which is a life style in itself.

Apparently Okemo has a bunch of new snow guns. In the press release they said the hope was to have 100 acres ready early on.

Got room for a sleeping bag?