Here are nine of the best ski destinations across New York State this winter. With up‑to‑date terrain info, snowy reliability, and friendly mix of beginner to expert runs, this guide highlights spots travelers actually enjoy.
Whiteface Mountain, Wilmington
Whiteface ranks as New York’s premier ski mountain thanks to the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies about 3 430 feet, and up to 94 trails across 288 skiable acres. It was the site of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics trails, and offers forested glade runs plus long cruisers like Wilmington Trail, over two miles long. The nearby town of Lake Placid adds year‑round amenities.
Gore Mountain, North Creek
Gore is the state’s largest resort in terrain offering about 108 trails and more than 400+ acres spread over four connected peaks. Known for great variety, glade skiing, and breathtaking views across the Adirondacks. It is consistently ranked top for terrain, value, and laid‑back style.
Holiday Valley, Ellicottville
Set in Western New York near Lake Erie, Holiday Valley receives ample lake‑effect snow. It features 58 trails across four faces and dependable snowmaking. A cozy village atmosphere at Ellicottville makes it a great family‑friendly and weekend‑getaway spot.
Windham Mountain, Windham
Located in the Great Northern Catskills south of Albany, Windham has about 97% snowmaking coverage, 12 lifts, and over 1 600 feet of vertical. It blends open pistes with wooded trail networks, night skiing, and award‑winning ski school that makes it ideal for families.
Hunter Mountain, Hunter
Hunter offers good proximity to New York City, 67 trails spanning all skill levels, and is famous as a snow‑making pioneer. High‑speed lifts speed access and strong beginner and intermediate terrain make it very popular. Crowds on weekends remain a real drawback though.
Belleayre Mountain, Highmount
This Catskills resort is less crowded and family-friendly, featuring a maintenance‑controlled gondola, 64 trails, and strong snowmaking. While there are fewer expert runs, it remains a reliable option for learning or building skills.
Bristol Mountain, Canandaigua (Finger Lakes)
Bristol is a Finger Lakes favorite with about 39 trails, scenic views, and night skiing. Its slope layout and consistent snowmaking attract weekend skiers and families from Rochester and Syracuse areas.
Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Cortland
Greek Peak lies in Central New York and offers 44 trails including 11 glade runs. Recent upgrades have improved beginner and intermediate terrain while keeping local, accessible charm. It is often appreciated by locals and families.
Titus Mountain, Malone
Titus sits closer to Montreal, deep in the Adirondacks, offering quieter slopes with around 50 trails and several terrain zones. It includes a “forever wild” zone without grooming, and fast runs known as Maple and The Face. It’s excellent for a quieter day trip.
Why These Places Stand Out
These New York resorts were selected for how they deliver on snow reliability, terrain options, accessibility, and overall experience. Whiteface and Gore dominate for vertical and skiable terrain. Catskills‑area resorts like Hunter, Windham or Belleayre offer big‑city access and beginner‑friendly schooling. And Western New York resorts like Holiday Valley, Bristol, and Titus bring strong snow, fewer crowds, and great value.
Choosing Where to Go
- Looking for steep runs and long descents? Choose Whiteface.
- Prefer variety of greens, blues, and glades on big terrain? Go Gore.
- Visiting from New York City? Hunter or Windham offer the closest, most developed experience.
- Want fewer people and strong snow? Holiday Valley or Titus are solid picks.
- Skiing with children or new skiers? Belleayre and Greek Peak offer gentle terrain and good instruction programs.
Planning Your Trip
Ski season in New York typically begins mid‑November, with solid snowpack by Christmas and runs through late March or early April. Most resorts offer rental gear, lessons, and lodging; Holiday Valley and Greek Peak have package deals that bundle ski passes and stays. Night skiing is available at several resorts like Hunter, Holiday Valley, and Bristol.
Final Thoughts
New York State boasts over 50 ski areas and each of these nine deliver unique features from Olympic heritage to snowmaking innovation, family‑friendly amenities to off‑peak tranquility. Whether you are chasing high verticals, reliable conditions, or easy access from the city, you’ll find a winter escape here that fits your style. Ski the Empire State and discover terrain and hospitality that rivals many better‑known winter destinations.
