The 6 Top Reasons New York Is Home to the Best Skiing in the U.S.

When you think about popular skiing destinations in the country, you might consider states like Colorado and Vermont. But did you know that New York has some of the best skiing in the U.S.? Not only is New York home to the most ski resorts in the country than any other state, but it also offers gorgeous, natural scenery and ideal weather conditions. Many people travel from all over America, especially within the tri-state area, to New York for the best skiing in the country.

If you’re planning a ski trip/winter getaway for yourself or with your loved ones, New York is a great destination. Here are the top six reasons New York has the best skiing in the U.S.

1. Access to Over 50 Ski Resorts

As previously mentioned, New York has more ski resorts than any other state. With over 50 ski resorts, visitors have access to various types of skiing, an abundance of natural beauty, and different terrain. Not only that, but the array of gorgeous mountains also offers visitors other unique winter activities such as night skiing, tubing, and snowboarding. Because of the amount of ski resorts available, you can also consider various ski deals and find a resort that best matches your vibe for your ski trip.

2. Highly Skiable Terrain

New York is home to many mountain ranges from the Adirondack Mountains to the Catskill Mountains. This gives the state the perfect terrain for skiers, especially since most of its ski resorts are perfectly groomed.

One resort in particular is Gore Mountain, which is the largest ski resort in all of New York judged by skiable terrain. This terrain is made up of 428 acres of well-maintained marked ski paths.

3. Perfect Skiing Weather

The state of New York has an annual average snowfall of around 71 inches. For a state to host great skiing opportunities, there needs to be access to packed snow. Thankfully, New York typically has an abundance of natural snow available to skiers (in addition to snowmakers). Also, since there are so many ski resorts available throughout the state, you are bound to find at least a few with sufficient snow depth, open slopes and lifts, and well-manicured slopes.

One mountain ski resort in particular is called Hunter Mountain. Located in the Catskills, Hunter Mountain provides a reliable winter wonderland for skiers, even when Mother Nature is lacking in the snow department. Its snowmaking program ensures the resort is highly accessible for skiers at all times. Additionally, due to its proximity to New York City (less than a three-hour drive), Hunter Mountain is a great option for a convenient ski weekend away.

4. Gorgeous Natural Scenery

It’s no surprise that New York offers visitors and residents beautiful natural scenery. From vast mountain ranges to stunning, large lakes, the state boasts a natural beauty that’s unlike any other. This goes for its ski resorts as well.

For example, the previously mentioned Gore Mountain, which is located in the Adirondacks, provides a winter paradise to visitors with highly skiable terrain. Not only that, but it also meets Mountain IDEAL standards, meaning it protects nature and wildlife amidst its tourism opportunities.

Another delightful ski resort is Bristol Mountain, which is located in the Finger Lakes region. While the mountain itself is small, the well-maintained trails offer some of the most scenic views you can find in New York.

5. Two-Time Host of Winter Olympics

Did you know that Lake Placid, New York is a two-time host of the Winter Olympics? That’s right — Lake Placid is a popular skiing destination for this very reason. Additionally, it offers skiers expensive terrain, as well as the infamous Lake Placid Olympic Sports Stadium.

Lake Placid also boasts the massive Whiteface Mountain, which features “the greatest vertical drop east of the Rockies.” The ski resort has 94 trails over 25 miles and encompasses three peaks.

6. Diverse Skiing Opportunities

Because it has over 50 ski resorts throughout the state, New York provides diverse skiing opportunities to meet an array of needs. For example, if you’re looking for a quieter, less crowded resort, visit Belleayre Mountain. If you’re a beginner skier and not yet ready for the more challenging slopes, start out at Bristol Mountain. If you’re a seasoned skier seeking a thrilling experience, go for the Catamount Mountain Resort. As for family members searching for a kid-friendly destination, you can’t go wrong with the Greek Peak Mountain Resort.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/lightphoto