Exploring Mount Snow, Vermont

There are tons of ski and snowboard resorts in the Northeast of the United States, but Northeasterners always head over to Vermont when the chance arises. Vermont is really ripe with both national and state parks-- with the Green Mountains, White Mountains, Mt. Mansfield, and others; the variety of ski and snowboard resorts is really overwhelming. But Mount Snow, Vermont wins this week for best ski resort.

Mount Snow is one of those ski resorts that all connoisseurs should try at least once. Situated right smack in the middle of the Green Mountains National Forest in Vermont, it's a very scenic location for a ski resort. About 3 hours drive from Boston and 4 hours from New York City. Its prime location means it is a great opportunity for a weekend trip to get out of the city.

The mountain itself is huge, with a total of 20 lifts, 37 miles of trails and 80 trails. If you're looking for variety, this is definitely a resort to check out.

Not only is Mount Snow a great resort for downhill skiing and snowboarding, it also is a great option for other types of outdoor winter activities. Mount Snow has its own tubing park that is perfect for kids. It is even serviced by a magic carpet lift so that kids can play all day. There are also marked snowshoeing trails that are open throughout the winter, as well as cross-country skiing trails. Looking to try snowmobiling? That's an option at Mount Snow as well.

Lift tickets at Mount Snow aren't cheap. But are they cheap anywhere? Good news though, if you can take a day off during the week you'll get a nice discount, especially if you're a young adult (under 18). There are also tons of different classes for skiers and snowboarders alike, from beginner learn to ski and learn to ride lessons to private advanced/expert lessons.

If you do decide to heat out to Mount Snow for several days, remember that there are tons of great hotel and motels around the Green Mountains. Plus, the best part is that you can take advantage of all the National Forest has to offer-- so if you ski or snowboard for one or two days, try to at least spend some time in other parts of the Forest.