Skiing/snowboard season has returned! In it’s honor, we have compiled vital need-to-know info about the mountains surrounding Fairfield County. A weekend of skiing for the whole family can be pricey, but each mountain offers specials and deals to make sure you get the biggest bang for your buck!
Ski Butternut
Only two hours from Fairfield County, this family friendly mountain is home to twenty-two trails (110 skiable acres). Full day lift tickets are available for adults, seniors, juniors, and kids and prices vary based on holidays, as well as weekends vs. non-weekends. There are many ski/snowboard school packages available for children, and day care is also offered. Reservations in the ski school programs and day care are recommended, so book early!
Thunder Ridge Ski Resort
Located 45 minutes away from Fairfield County, this mountain offers an amazing ski/snowboard school for children — although it's only a half-day program unless you arrange for private & group lessons. It is often crowded due to its close proximity to NYC, but it is still a great place to introduce your kids to skiing and snowboarding. And when you want to come in from the cold, you can visit the lodge’s glass atrium, which overlooks the mountain base and beginner slopes. Warm up with a glass of hot cocoa and enjoy the full service cafeteria. Babysitting is also offered in the glass-enclosed nursery adjacent to the lodge.
Mountain Creek
This beautiful oasis in Vernon, New Jersey has lodging on the mountain, great snow conditions, and is very family friendly. It may be crowded on the weekends, but there are plenty of trails for skiing and boarding. With great ski school package options, you'll find the perfect class for your new skier/snowboarder— call in advance to book your spot. In May 2010, the mountain merged with the Crystal Springs Resort next door in order to establish a true four-season recreation and leisure resort. Together Mountain Creek and Crystal Springs Resort stretch over 5 miles through the Vernon Valley and include: 7 World-Class golf courses, Minerals Resort and Spa, Grand Cascades Lodge, 2 luxury day spas, several fine-dining locations, the nation's largest wine cellar, skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, mountain biking, water park, hiking, and events.
Mohawk Mountain
With state of the art snowmaking equipment, five chairlifts and all the amenities, like an on-mountain restaurant, this is a great place to ski! There is cross-country skiing in the adjacent Mohawk State Forest, and fully lit night skiing on most of the trails. The Winter Sports Learning Center teaches skiers and snowboarders of all ages and levels, making this mountain completely accessible for students of all levels.
Ski Sundown
Ski Sundown is an hour away from Fairfield County and may be the best kept secret in town. Crowds are small and the town boasts quaint inns, restaurants, antique shops, museums, and galleries for after snow fun. Facilities include standard cafeteria-style food service, recently renovated lounge, ski shop, and full alpine snowboard and boot rental shop. Sign up ahead for the Ski/Snowboard School, as they take pre-registration so sessions fill up fast.
Mount Southington
Mount Southington has a fun family atmosphere. With plenty of beginner trails as well as steep black diamond runs, this mountain appeals to new skiers and seasoned snow bunnies alike. Special Mountain features include two Terrain Parks for snowboarders looking for a challenge. "The Glacier" is a children's learning area only open on weekends and holiday periods. It provides the best atmosphere to introduce your kids to the slopes.
Woodbury Ski Area
This low-key ski park has downhill and cross country skiing options, with an Alpine Snowboard Park and Half pipe for snowboard enthusiasts, as well as dedicated tubing trails. They don't have a dedicated ski school for kids, but you can arrange private and group lessons for students of all ages. Its small size makes this mountain perfect for beginner skiers and boarders.