Killington: Skiing with a Flair

Ah, skiing! What can be more exciting than being whisked up to the top of a mountain via gondola or chairlift and dropped off in a scenic winter wonderland paradise, straight out of a postcard. Snowcovered trees, the ability to see for miles, undisturbed wildlife, serenity and tranquility and then the adrenaline sets in as you begin to venture down the mountain of the largest ski areas in Eastern North America. Killington Resort is an ideally located ski area destination in central Vermont. Known as the area with the most open skiiable terrain and longest ski season, Killington has it all scattered about seven mountains including Pico offering 88 miles of skiing terrain and 191 trails.

What began as a small ski area consisting of just seven trails and two lifts back on December 13, 1958, Killington has evolved to a reputable Juggernaut with 30 lifts which includes three high speed gondolas and seven express chair lifts. The 50 year celebration taking place this year comes off of the huge expansion program over the off season that cost roughly 8.4 million dollars in on mountain improvements. Included in this is a new Skye Peak express lift, new trail enhancements, efficiency upgrades and snow making improvements. Not to mention the newest craze, the "stash", which is a new all natural terrain park located off of Skye Peak. This park is only one of five in the world and the only one on the East Coast.

Killington stands at 4,241 feet above sea level at its highest point at the top of Killington Peak. As stated, there are 7 mountains that make up Killington Resort. The mountains are as follows: Killington Peak, Skye Peak, Ramshead, Bear, Snowdon, Pico and sunrise mountains. Their is such as wide range of trail difficulties so that any skill level skier can have a field day enjoying trails in their comfort zone. As a starting point, those wishing for a challenge and expert trails, Bear Mountain is there for the taking, but yours for the asking may be somewhat of a mistake. Trails such as Outerlimits and Devils' Fiddle will definitely test your skill and Witt's. Moguls and steep terrain will accompany you on this epic venture as you cascade your way down in hopes of making it down without having to call no glory and walk down the hill. Now their are expert double and single black diamond trails sprinkled throughout the Killington Resort Ski Area accounting for 39% of the trail terrain. 33% of the trail capacity is moderate skiing with the final 28% consisting of novice trail coverage. The majority of the easy, novice skiing can be found on Killington and Skye Peak. Again, you can find a little bit of each experience level trails on each mountain or peak, which allows you to experience the whole ski area, and not just a select designated area.

Killington offers all the amenities that you would hope for in visiting and experiencing a major resort destination like Killington. Fine dinning, shops, day lodges, spas and health clubs as well as a great ski school, ski rental facility and Friendly Penguin Daycare for those children not planning on skiing while offering the parents piece of mind while enjoying the mountain.

Now don't think that you have to be a skier to enjoy all that is Killington Resort! Their is so much to do even if you are not a ski bunny enthusiast. Just being able to enjoy the sights and tranquility that is part of Killington. Relaxing in front of the fire place while watching skiers careen down the mountain sipping on a cup of coffee or hot chocolate makes a fine alternative to a hectic lifestyle. Catch a sleigh ride, theater presentation, go snowshoeing, take a snow mobile tour or shop at one of the many stores and shopping areas available around the Killington Resort Area. Their are also many off mountain event activities scheduled throughout the year, so check the Killington website frequently for the calendar of events.

With the extensive ski terrain and amenities available at Killington Resort, anyone can enjoy and get their money's worth at this fine destination for a day or weeks worth of entertainment. The Killington website is loaded with pertinent information to get your trip started on the right foot. Don't forget to check out the updated information regarding ski conditions and trail availability.

Now go check Killington out and have FUN...