Stratton is where modern East Coast skiing found its rhythm. Known as the birthplace of snowboarding and home to some of the best-groomed runs in New England, Stratton blends big-mountain energy with boutique charm. Its base village feels like a European escape—complete with cafés, après patios, and a social buzz that lasts long after the lifts stop spinning. Whether you’re carving morning corduroy or sipping cocktails fireside, Stratton delivers timeless Vermont magic.

Quick Stats

• Location: Stratton, Vermont
• Elevation: 1,872 ft base / 3,875 ft summit
• Vertical Drop: 2,003 ft
• Skiable Terrain: 670 acres
• Annual Snowfall: ~180 inches
• Number of Runs: 99
• Lifts: 11 (including a high-speed gondola and four high-speed quads)
• Vibe Check: Refined, family-friendly, and built for carving

The Vibe

Stratton strikes a rare balance—it’s upscale but never pretentious. The mountain draws families, weekend warriors, and East Coast locals who appreciate great grooming, dependable snowmaking, and a lively après scene. Its perfectly pitched trails, modern lift system, and charming pedestrian village make it feel like a mini Vail tucked into southern Vermont. Add in its rich snowboarding history and welcoming community, and you’ve got one of the East’s most complete experiences.

Must-Ride Runs

🟢 Greens

• West Meadow Trail – ideal for beginners, with wide-open space and gentle grades.
• Old Log Road – scenic and mellow with easy turns for first-timers.

🟦 Blues

• Black Bear – Stratton’s classic cruiser with consistent pitch and great grooming.
• Interstate – smooth and scenic, running the full length of the main face.
• North American – playful trail with natural rollers and a long, flowing layout.

♦︎ Blacks

• Grizzly – steep and thrilling with variable snow and a real East Coast bite.
• Polar Bear – top-to-bottom challenge with consistent steepness and killer views.
• East Meadow Liftline – local favorite for quick laps and short, sharp turns.

Après + Town Stays

Stratton’s après scene mixes luxury with local character—craft cocktails, Vermont brews, and plenty of mountain charm.

• Grizzly’s – the base area’s most popular après bar with live music and rowdy energy.
• Fire Tower Restaurant & Tavern – elevated American fare and cocktails in the heart of the village.
• Mulligan’s Stratton – hearty pub food, family-friendly vibes, and local beer.
• The Drift Diner – retro-style breakfast and coffee spot for early risers.
• Verde Restaurant – upscale dining with farm-to-table flavor.
• Long Trail House – condo-style lodging steps from the lifts.
• Black Bear Lodge – classic mountain hotel with ski-in access and cozy common spaces.

Travel Tips

Fly into Albany International Airport (ALB)—just 1 hour and 45 minutes away—or Hartford (BDL) for more flight options. Stratton’s location makes it one of the easiest major Vermont resorts to reach from New York or Boston. The mountain’s snowmaking is top-tier, keeping coverage strong from late November through early April. The best days come after midweek storms, when the crowds fade and the corduroy lasts all day.

Fun Facts

• Stratton was founded in 1961 and pioneered high-speed lifts in New England.
• The snowboard was invented here—Jake Burton tested his first prototypes on these slopes.
• Home to the U.S. Open Snowboarding Championships for over two decades.
• The village was one of the first purpose-built ski villages in the East.
• Stratton’s snowmaking covers nearly 95% of the mountain, ensuring long, reliable seasons.

Why It Made Our Top 50 List

Stratton made the list because it’s polished without losing its heart. It’s a resort that understands what skiers and riders love: reliable snow, smooth turns, and a place to gather when the day’s done. It’s Vermont at its best—refined, fun, and endlessly inviting.