Best Times to Visit
Killington Ski Resort, affectionately known as the "Beast of the East," offers a remarkably long season, typically commencing around mid-November and extending
into late May or even June. For the most pristine snow conditions, plan your visit between late January and March. During this period, a combination of natural snowfall and the resort's advanced snowmaking capabilities ensures abundant powder and an extended opportunity to enjoy the 1,509 acres of skiable terrain. This prime window allows visitors to experience the resort at its fullest, benefiting from excellent snow coverage across its diverse range of 155 trails, which are expertly divided with 17 percent for beginners, 40 percent for intermediate skiers, and 43 percent for advanced riders.
Comfortable Stays
Finding the perfect accommodation is key to a memorable Killington trip. For unparalleled convenience, the Killington Grand Resort Hotel stands as the sole full-service hotel directly on the mountain, just a short stroll from the Snowshed Lodge. While not extravagantly luxurious, it provides essential amenities like a heated outdoor pool, two hot tubs, a fitness center, and a spa. The 532 units, managed by Killington but privately owned, showcase a classic mountain aesthetic and range from cozy studios to expansive penthouses. Alternatively, the Mountain Inn Killington, a modern rustic option just a minute away via shuttle, features a distillery, a bar, a restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool. Its rooms are clean and functional, some boasting mountain-view terraces. For more space and a touch of elegance, consider the Killington Mountain Lodge, part of the Hilton's Tapestry Collection, located about a mile away. This pet-friendly hotel boasts a welcoming lobby with a fireplace, vintage ski décor, a large outdoor hot tub, a gym, and comfortable lounge areas, all within its 102 bright, modern rooms.
Delectable Dining
Killington's culinary scene offers a diverse range of options, though many establishments lean towards classic American comfort food in a tavern-like atmosphere. For an exceptional dining experience, The Foundry at Summit Pond is a standout. Housed in a picturesque post-and-beam structure overlooking a serene lake, its rustic and romantically lit dining room provides a stunning backdrop. The menu features refined American cuisine, including highlights like tuna tartare, lamb lollipops, and burrata caprese, complemented by an extensive wine list and a selection of local craft beers. Another highly recommended spot is The Garlic, an upscale Tuscan-inspired tavern that, despite its tapas and martini bar branding, serves generous portions. Their chicken parmigiana and pasta specials are notably large, often resulting in leftovers. The atmosphere is vibrant and warm, adorned with decorative garlic braids, creating a festive pub-like ambiance.
Lively Après-Ski
Killington is renowned for its energetic après-ski culture, where the tradition of bar-hopping is a highlight, and nightclubs often stay open until 2 a.m. on weekends, meaning Sunday mornings can be refreshingly uncrowded. No Killington experience is complete without a visit to the Pickle Barrel. This legendary venue, operating since the 1960s, spans three floors, four bars, and two stages, guaranteeing a lively crowd and a vibrant atmosphere. For another iconic nightlife destination, The Wobbly Barn offers weekend entertainment with live bands and DJs. It also hosts a popular steakhouse on its lower level, which becomes increasingly rowdy as the night unfolds, adding to the resort's famed after-hours buzz.
Beyond the Slopes
When you're ready to explore beyond the ski trails, Killington offers a variety of exciting off-mountain activities. Experience the thrill of snowmobiling with guided tours available in one-hour, two-hour, and kid-friendly options, utilizing modern Polaris models. Helmets are provided, with snowsuits and boots available for rent. For a fun-filled activity suitable for all ages, head to the tubing park located just across East Mountain Road from the resort's base lodge. These hour-long tubing sessions can be booked in advance. To soothe those well-earned muscle aches, indulge in a rejuvenating experience at a full-service wellness center. These facilities often include a gym, dry sauna, eucalyptus steam room, indoor pool, and hot tub, offering a range of treatments from Himalayan salt massages to acupuncture, ensuring you're refreshed for another day of adventure.
Navigating Your Trip
Planning your journey to Killington is straightforward. Lift tickets can be purchased online in advance for the best rates, with prices for an adult single weekday ticket starting around $70 toward the end of the season. Ikon Passes are accepted without requiring reservations. For equipment needs, numerous rental shops are situated along Killington Road, with some on-mountain options available at a premium. Consider shops that offer late hours and equipment delivery to your accommodation. Parking is complimentary at all base lodges, though preferred and valet parking options are available on weekends and peak days. For skiing and snowboarding, Killington boasts 19 lifts servicing 155 trails across 1,509 skiable acres, featuring a variety of terrain parks and a prominent half-pipe available later in the season. The resort also provides extensive programming, including lessons for all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers, along with specialized camps.
