The Great Escape: A Last Local Ski Getway Ahead of Spring

Instead of curling up with a blanket this holiday weekend, make it count: at one of our many nearby mountains, that is. Many people are under the impression that for a lodging and skiing experience, they have to brace themselves for a lengthy road trip to Mount Snow in Vermont.

But the Sound Shore is in close proximity to many award-winning locations perfect for a day away from the artificial heater and out in the fresh air. And the views when you reach the top of these high peaks aren't too shabby either.

Butternut Ski Area: Great Barrington, MA

The mountain features 22 trails, ten ski lifts, two terrain parks, a tubing area, and a ski school affiliated with the Professional Ski Instructors of America. What’s more, this resort was also praised by SKI Magazine as "A True Family Mountain" for its many kid-friendly programs like Adventurer and miniRIDER. 

Belleayre Ski: Highmount, NY

If you’re thinking about taking an extra-long weekend off from work, Belleayre offers $20 lift tickets on Wednesdays and $25 on Fridays, along with a slew of events, concerts and promotions guaranteed to please every member of the family. Ski and snowboarding instructions are also packaged into inexpensive sessions to occupy your little one while you hit the slopes.

Jiminy Peak Ski: Hancock, MA: 

Looking for a weekend getaway that boasts both a comfortable stay and a top-notch mountain? This Berkshires resort offers its spacious Country Inn’s amenities along with private and public lessons. Cub’s Den Playroom also advertises a safe and comfortable play-space for toddlers.

Windham Ski: Windham, NY

This snow sport location does more than teach how to ski—it focuses on the human brain’s connection with it. The Fear Workshop helps women conquer their fears of sailing downhill, while the PowerLearn Program studies the mental and physical components necessary to improve. To test out those skills, the mountain offers guests something for all levels of skiers.