Killington doesn’t just live up to its nickname—it owns it. Rising from the rolling hills of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Killington is a giant by East Coast standards, with more trails, lifts, and vertical than almost anywhere this side of the Rockies. It’s the kind of mountain that never quits—long seasons, steep drops, endless tree runs, and a nightlife scene that goes just as hard. Whether you’re chasing early-season turns in November or spring laps in May, Killington is the East Coast’s capital of stoke.
Quick Stats
- Location: Killington, Vermont
- Elevation: 1,165 ft base / 4,241 ft summit
- Vertical Drop: 3,050 ft
- Skiable Terrain: 1,509 acres
- Annual Snowfall: ~250 inches (plus massive snowmaking coverage)
- Number of Runs: 155
- Lifts: 22 (including the new K-1 Express Gondola)
- Vibe Check: High-energy, hard-charging, and proudly East Coast
The Vibe
Killington feels like an entire ski state wrapped into one resort. It’s sprawling, fast-paced, and full of personality. The mountain itself offers something for everyone—smooth cruisers, gnarly steeps, and some of the best terrain parks in the country. Off the slopes, Killington turns into a festival of après, live music, and neon ski jackets straight out of the ’80s. Locals call it “The Beast” because it’s big, bold, and unstoppable. If you ski the East, Killington is your proving ground.
Must-Ride Runs
🟢 Greens
- Great Eastern – long, scenic, and ideal for warming up or cruising with the family.
- Ramshead Easy Street – wide, gentle slope for first-timers and easy laps.
🟦 Blues
- Cruise Control – fast, flowy, and perfectly groomed for morning laps.
- Bittersweet – quintessential Killington blue run with variety and length.
- North Star – fun, rolling cruiser that shows off the mountain’s best pitch.
♦︎ Blacks
- Outer Limits – the steepest mogul run in New England and a Killington classic.
- Cascade – fast, challenging black that carves right down the front face.
- Double Dipper – steep and narrow, with great snow after a storm.
Après + Town Stays
Killington’s après scene is legendary in the East—rowdy, musical, and full of character. From slope-side beers to full-blown late-night parties, this town knows how to celebrate a ski day.
- The Wobbly Barn – the most famous après spot in Vermont; part steakhouse, part nightclub, all chaos.
- Pickle Barrel Nightclub – live music, packed dance floors, and classic Killington energy.
- The Lookout Tavern – casual bar with mountain views and killer wings.
- Charity’s Tavern & Restaurant – family-friendly vibe with hearty food and great beer.
- JAX Food & Games – arcade-meets-bar setup perfect for a chill evening.
- Killington Grand Resort Hotel – slopeside luxury with pools and great dining.
- Mountain Sports Inn – comfortable, budget-friendly lodging minutes from the lifts.
Travel Tips
Fly into Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport (RUT), just 30 minutes away, or Burlington International (BTV) about 2 hours north. If you’re driving from Boston or NYC, give yourself time—Vermont’s roads are scenic but slow. Killington’s snowmaking is world-class, so even when Mother Nature takes a break, the mountain stays open. The resort often runs from November to May, one of the longest seasons in North America.
Fun Facts
- Killington was founded in 1958 and is one of the oldest major resorts in the East.
- It’s home to the longest ski season on the East Coast—sometimes over 200 days.
- The World Cup makes an annual stop here for women’s slalom and giant slalom.
- Killington boasts six separate peaks and the largest vertical drop in New England.
- Locals affectionately call it “The Beast of the East,” a title it proudly lives up to.
Why It Made Our Top 50 List
Killington made the list because it defines East Coast skiing—tough, relentless, and full of life. It’s the mountain that never sleeps, where locals and visitors alike bond over cold mornings and warm après beers. Whether you’re ripping Outer Limits or dancing at the Wobbly Barn, Killington delivers the full East Coast experience, from first chair to last call.