Top Eastern Resorts
The 2026 rankings showcase a diverse range of ski resorts across the Eastern United States, each offering unique experiences for skiers and snowboarders.
Saddleback Mountain in Maine secured the top spot, followed by Sugarloaf Mountain, also in Maine. Whiteface Mountain in New York claimed the third position. Holiday Valley in New York and Bretton Woods in New Hampshire rounded out the top five, demonstrating the popularity and variety of options available to snow sport enthusiasts. The rankings provide a detailed perspective on the best resorts, based on reader preferences for the upcoming season.
Maine's Dominance Ascends
Maine emerged as a leading state for top-rated ski resorts. Saddleback Mountain, lauded for its challenging terrain and scenic views, secured the number one position. Sugarloaf Mountain, known for its extensive slopes and varied trails, took second place. These rankings reflect the excellent conditions and quality of experience available in Maine. The reader's choices suggest a high regard for the state's snow quality, well-maintained facilities, and overall winter sport offerings, establishing Maine as a prime destination for skiing enthusiasts across the East Coast region during the 2026 season.
New York's Strong Showing
New York showcased significant presence with its top-ranked resorts in the 2026 list. Whiteface Mountain, recognized for hosting Olympic events and providing expansive skiing areas, secured a notable third-place ranking. Following closely, Holiday Valley in New York, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain, secured the fourth position. Additionally, Gore Mountain in New York made it into the top ten, showcasing the state's depth in offering quality ski experiences. These rankings confirm New York as a prime destination for skiers and snowboarders, who enjoy a mix of challenging slopes and welcoming resort environments.
Vermont's High Achievers
Vermont featured several high-ranking resorts in the 2026 standings, solidifying its place as a top destination for skiing. Stratton Mountain Resort made a prominent appearance, securing a high placement, reflecting its appeal to a broad base of skiers. Stowe Mountain Resort, known for its extensive facilities and stunning landscapes, was also listed, demonstrating the quality of Vermont's ski offerings. Smugglers’ Notch Resort and Jay Peak, known for their unique experiences, also added to Vermont's portfolio of excellent ski destinations. These selections show the variety and caliber of ski resorts that draw enthusiasts to Vermont, promising memorable experiences and exceptional ski conditions.
Additional Notable Resorts
The 2026 rankings also highlighted several other ski resorts that garnered significant recognition. Bretton Woods in New Hampshire secured a high ranking, offering expansive terrain and beautiful scenery. Waterville Valley and Loon Mountain, also in New Hampshire, added to the state's strong representation. Okemo Mountain Resort in Vermont, and Seven Springs in Pennsylvania, also made the list, reflecting the widespread appeal of the sport across different locations. These resorts' inclusion underscored the diversity of options available for winter sports lovers, each offering unique environments and experiences tailored to different preferences.
Beyond the Rankings
While the 2026 rankings give a snapshot of the most favored resorts, other factors can influence the choice of a ski destination. Sunday River in Maine and Killington Resort in Vermont are among the resorts that offer outstanding skiing experiences. Each resort featured is distinguished by its terrain, facilities, and unique appeal to both novice and expert skiers. Mad River Glen in Vermont, with its no-snowmaking policy and rugged terrain, provides a more purist approach to skiing. The diversity of the resorts ensures there's something to meet every skier's preferences, ensuring a memorable winter sports season for all.
