23 Skiing in NEW YORK (Exciting, Thrilling, Challenging)

Winter – the season of hot cocoa, warm sweaters, and, most importantly, skiing!

New York City may be legendary for its busy streets and gigantic skyscrapers.

Still, it also boasts some whimsical skiing centers. 

Get ready to hit the powder at one of the 23 top skiing centers across New York City. 

From the Adirondacks to the Catskills, these resorts offer breathtaking views, thrilling runs, and plenty of opportunities for après-ski fun.

This article will ease your search for an adventure by providing the best skiing areas with the best experiences. 

Grab your skis and get set to hit the slopes.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Ice Skating in New York.

Skiing in Upstate New York

1. Hickory Ski Center

Homepage of Hickory Ski Center / skihickory.com
Homepage of Hickory Ski Center / skihickory.com

Hickory Ski Center in Warrensburg is known for its challenging terrain and fun-filled moments.

From easy to difficult, the resort features 18 trails and a vertical drop of 1200 ft.

Hickory is home to many generations of skiers running on natural snow well-smoothed for enjoyable skiing with iconic 1950s poma lifts.

It has a dedicated area for beginners to learn and experienced skiers to improve their skills.

The Hickory Ski Center lodge has a large circular 1950s fire pit surrounded by built-in brunch seats. 

It is the focal point of social activities in the resort, an excellent way to rest between laps by tending to the fire, and a critical moment that brings people together.

Johnny B’s place is also excellent for relaxing and conversing.

Address: 43 Hickory Hill Rd, Warrensburg, NY 12885

2. Gore Mountain

Homepage of Gore Mountain / goremountain.com
Homepage of Gore Mountain / goremountain.com

Gore Mountain is not just a skiing destination but an experience in itself. It is one of the major ski resorts in New York.

With its four peaks, a vertical drop of 2,537 feet, 448 acres of skiable area, and 14 lifts, it is a perfect place for skiers and snowboarders looking for a thrilling adventure.

One of the most exciting features of Gore Mountain is the high-speed triple lift called the “Adirondack Express.” Installed in 1984, it was the only lift in the Eastern US.

It is one of the many reasons why Gore Mountain is a must-visit destination for skiing enthusiasts.

And if you’re looking for evening skiing activities, the historic North Creek Ski Bowl is the place to be.

Get on soon.

Address: 793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek, NY 12853

3. Hunter Mountain Resort

Homepage of Hunter Mountain Resort / huntermtn.com
Homepage of Hunter Mountain Resort / huntermtn.com

Experience a great winter at the Hunter Ski Resort when you take a break from your daily A to B routine.

Hunter Ski Resort takes you away from even the closest thing to a new fantasy world that feels real

View around the ski resorts is magical, giving a sense of adventure, relaxation, and satisfaction.

Lift tickets are affordable and available only to spare you the stress. 

The Ski and Ride school is an excellent place for beginners and anybody looking to improve their skills and confidence.

Lodging is plausible; the family-friendly vintage condos are a typical home away from home.

Hunter Mountain Resort always leaves a great impression on its visitors, from the club and spa to dining.

Rentals are also available for ski gear.

Address: 64 Klein Ave, Hunter, NY 12442

4. Bristol Mountain

Homepage of Bristol Mountain / bristolmountain.com
Homepage of Bristol Mountain / bristolmountain.com

Bristol Mountain is one of the leading ski resorts in the Finger Lake region, New York.

With its 34 trails and 1200 vertical drops, the ski resort offers skiers of all levels unique and exciting experiences.

Its snowmaking and grooming is one of the best in the area, ensuring skiers have a great time gliding.

The over-sunset skiing with lights on most trails adds beauty to the exciting experience.

It offers other activities during the summer, like mountain biking and zip-lining.

Bristol Mountain offers skiing and snowboarding lessons to first-timers in packages ranging from kids to adults and people looking to hone their skills.

The unique on-mountain dining spots, including the Satellite Lounge, Morning Star Cafe, Northern Bites, and Carver’s Kitchen, are also worth mentioning.

Address: 5662 Route 64 Canandaigua, NY 14424

Also see our article on Snow Tubing in New York.

Skiing in Western New York

1. West Mountain

Homepage of West Mountain / westmountain.com
Homepage of West Mountain / westmountain.com

In Queensbury, New York, West Mountain is a ski resort with 31 trails and a vertical drop of 1010 feet.

This resort offers cross-country skiing, snowing, and night skiing with trail lights, making the experience magical and more enjoyable. 

Its terrains range from gentle cruisers for beginners to challenging steeps and glades for ski veterans. 

Skiing and snowboarding lessons are also available for beginners and experienced skiers looking to hone their skills.

West Mountain Ski Resort provides a rental service, which is always open to skiers to get ski gear.

During summer, it holds special events, including Mountain-top Yoga, Music on the Mountain, a fall festival, Weekly Summer Camp, and much more.

Date night packages, dining, lodging, special events, and wedding booking options are also available.

Address: 59 West Mountain Road, Queensbury, NY 12804

2. Peek’n Peak Resort

Homepage of Peek'n Peak Resort / pknpk.com
Homepage of Peek’n Peak Resort / pknpk.com

Peek’n Peak Resort has diverse terrain, night skiing, year-round activities, and on-mountain dining.

Its terrains range from easy to difficult to challenge skiers of all skill levels.

As a beginner, you’ll have to start at the 180 Park.

The inter-media park is the 360, and the advanced is the 540 park.

The 180 park is where skiers have less probability of getting injured while building confidence.

Snow tubing at Peek’n Peak is always in groups, exciting, and family-friendly.

Some of their events include Bistro 210 Coffee and Chocolate Celebration, which is held every Friday and Saturday night with relaxing live music, Mother’s Day Prime Rib Brunch featuring prime rib, glazed ham, and smoked turkey, a good time for families and friends to enjoy some grilled delicacies and entertainment.

Address: 1405 Old Rd, Clymer, NY 14724

3. HoliMont Ski Club

Homepage of HoliMont Ski Club / holimont.com
Homepage of HoliMont Ski Club / holimont.com

Holimont Ski Club is a family-friendly ski club providing fantastic skiing and snowball-making to its members; a public club welcoming anyone to subscribe and participate in the fun.  

This ski club was established in 1962 and boasts over 3500 members, welcoming families and individuals.

Holimont Ski Club has been home to families of ski enthusiasts for years, making it one of the leading and most visited ski places in New York.

Winters at this ski club are always excellent, leaving you with beautiful memories you’ll live to remember.

With its 700 wall-to-wall, bottom-to-bottom snow, 56 slope and custom traits, and seven chair lifts, it is a place to form a fun family tradition.

There is no twilight skiing at Holimont to preserve its well-flattened snow.

Address: 6921 Route 242, PO Box 279, Ellicottville, NY 14731

4. Swain Ski Resort

Homepage of Swain Ski Resort / swain.com
Homepage of Swain Ski Resort / swain.com

This ski resort on the Finger Lakes trail has many pleasure-giving winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, and tubing.

The terrain at Swain Ski Resort has four lifts, thirty-three trails, and a vertical drop of 650ft off the mountain.

It has clinics and provides child care and lessons for new skiers and riders for a secure, comfortable, and educative winter adventure.

If you like taking a break from the snow, visit the lodge’s Shawmut and the Mercer’s Grille for delicious grills, pasta, desserts, salad, sandwich, pizza, and refreshing beer or wine.

You can also shop for your ski gear and other winter sports needs from the store at the resort.

Winters at Swain Ski Resort are fun-filled and enjoyable.

Visit to ski, learn and have fun.

Address: 2275 Co Rd 24, Swain, NY 14884

Also see our article on Bowling in New York.

Skiing in Buffalo, New York

1. Buffalo Ski Center

Homepage of Buffalo Ski Center / buffaloskicenter.com
Homepage of Buffalo Ski Center / buffaloskicenter.com

If you’re tired of your mundane routine and hungry for an adventure that will leave you exhilarated, visit the Buffalo Ski Center. 

Located within Colden, New York, Buffalo Ski Center is the adrenaline-pumping, family-friendly destination that will satisfy your hunger for a satisfying adventure.

An impressive selection of 43 slopes and three cozy lodges offers a memorable experience for seasoned skiing enthusiasts and curious beginners.

The adventure center, situated on-site, provides a wide array of thriving activities, from snowshoeing to cross-country skiing.

Buffalo Ski Center offers even more than satisfying your hunger for adventure; it offers many membership options, including trial memberships, programs, events, and winter festivals and carnivals.

With something for everyone, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reason not to hit the slopes!

Address: 7414 State Rd, Colden, NY 14033

2. Kissing Bridge Snow Resort

Homepage of Kissing Bridge Snow Resort / kbski.com
Homepage of Kissing Bridge Snow Resort / kbski.com

Are you tired of skiing on icy slopes with little snow?

Kissing Bridge Ski Resort has an average snowfall of about 180 inches yearly, and with its 90 percent snowmaking capability, it provides excellent ski conditions.

KB has ten lifts servicing a vertical drop of 550 feet and 39 trails spread over 700 acres for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy more and better snow…all winter!

Its terrains range from easy to difficult for beginners, intermediate and advanced skiing.

Kissing Bridge has two quads, four doubles, two t-bars, 1 J-bar, and one mitey-mite, ensuring everyone has a lift.

It also offers night skiing on well-lighted trails if you’re a night owl.

On-mountain dining featuring delicacies and refreshing drinks is also available.

Head out for a one-of-its-kind fun-filled skiing experience.

Address: 10296 State Rd, Glenwood, NY 14069

Also see our article on Swimming Pools in New York.

Skiing in Central New York

1. Song Mountain Resort

Homepage of Song Mountain Resort / skicny.com/song
Homepage of Song Mountain Resort / skicny.com/song

For skiing enthusiasts and snow bunnies!

Your genuine desire for the perfect place to shred some fresh powder, relax by the fire, and make unforgettable memories with friends and family should lead to nowhere other than Song Mountain Resort, situated in the picturesque Tully. 

At Song Mountain, you will find 24 incredible trails to challenge your skiing or snowboarding skills, regardless of your experience level – lessons are provided for skiing beginners.

This resort is not just about skiing but also a hub of entertainment and fun events throughout the year.

From live music performances to holiday celebrations, there’s always something happening at the resort.

So, after a day of carving up the slopes, kick back and enjoy some après-ski festivities with your fellow snow lovers.

Address: 1 Song Mountain Rd, Tully, NY 13159

2. Four Seasons Golf & Ski Center

Homepage of Four Seasons Golf & Ski Center / fourseasonsgolfandski.com
Homepage of Four Seasons Golf & Ski Center / fourseasonsgolfandski.com

The Four Seasons Golf And Ski Center was established in 1958 and has since served local ski and golf enthusiasts in central New York.

For over 60 years, the ski center has passed skiing knowledge to the locals and visitors from far and wide.

You don’t have to break your bank to have fun during the four seasons, the skiing and activities fares are amazingly cheap, and it is easy to pay right from the comfort of your room and get on the snow afterward.

With its friendly staff welcoming you with smiles and assisting you with whatever you need, skiing at this resort promises an unforgettable and pleasant memory.

Helmets and other safety measures are available to skiers to prevent them from getting any injuries.

Address: 8012 E Genesee St, Fayetteville, NY 13066

3. McCauley Mountain

Homepage of McCauley Mountain / mccauleyny.com
Homepage of McCauley Mountain / mccauleyny.com

Picture a breathtaking summit surrounded by the beauty of nature, where you can ski on 21 thrilling trails and enjoy a multitude of events throughout the year; that’s what McCauley Mountain looks like.

It is a ski resort in Webb, Herkimer County, New York.

With 21 diverse trails and five efficient lifts, McCauley Mountain offers a fulfilling skiing experience.

Whether a novice or an expert skier, your skill level determines your skiing course; from gentle slopes perfect for beginners to challenging real-time runs that will test your abilities, McCauley Mountain has something for everyone.

Don’t have your skiing equipment? That’s not a problem!

McCauley Mountain offers convenient rentals for all your skiing needs.

It is the perfect skiing destination for families and fun ski lovers.

Address: 300 Mc Cauley Rd, Old Forge, NY 13420

4. Woods Valley Ski Area

Homepage of Woods Valley Ski Area / woodsvalleyskiarea.com
Homepage of Woods Valley Ski Area / woodsvalleyskiarea.com

Perhaps you’re longing to visit a winter wonderland where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a world of snowy fun. 

You may only satisfy that longing when you visit Woods Valley Ski Area, a family-owned and operated ski resort in Westernville, New York.

With its 21 thrilling trails, five efficient lifts, and many exciting activities and other events, this resort is known for giving ski lovers an experience of a lifetime.  

The resort’s snowmaking system ensures that the slopes are always in peak condition for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. 

With significant improvements to its facilities, guests can enjoy a new kitchen, dining room, and beginner’s area, complete with a rental shop and a ski school.

Address: 9100 State Route 46 • Westernville, NY 13486

Also see our article on Ziplining in New York.

Skiing in Queens, New York

1. NYC Snow Bus – Ski & Snowboard Trips

Homepage of NYC Snow Bus - Ski & Snowboard Trips / nycsnowbus.com
Homepage of NYC Snow Bus – Ski & Snowboard Trips / nycsnowbus.com

Are you a New York City dweller who dreams of hitting the slopes but dreads the hassle and expense of planning a ski trip?

Look no further than the NYC Snow Bus, your one-stop shop for affordable and unforgettable ski and snowboard adventures!

The NYC Snow Bus whisks you away from the concrete jungle to some of the East Coast’s premier ski resorts, like Hunter Mountain, Windham Mountain, and Mountain Creek.

They handle everything, including transportation, lift tickets, and equipment rentals.

All you need to do is show up ready to shred some powder!

Wait, there’s more!

They also offer lessons for all skill levels, making it the impeccable option for beginners who want to join the fun but need to learn their way around.

Address: 30-15 Broadway, Queens, NY 11106

2. Miramar Ski Club

Homepage of Miramar Ski Club / miramar.org
Homepage of Miramar Ski Club / miramar.org

People who desire to ski will have their desires over-satisfied when they meet an adventure instead. 

Miramar Ski Club, a 4-season club, offers skiing, boarding, biking, and hiking trips and is perfect for anyone looking for adventure all year round.

One of the best parts of Miramar Ski Club is its weekend bus trips from midtown to its lodge in Vermont.

Members can enjoy the slopes quickly with trips running most weekends from December to April. 

And for those new to skiing and boarding, Miramar Ski Club has you covered with subsidized beginner lessons.

Whether you are a skiing and boarding pro or just looking for adventure, Miramar Ski Club has something for you.

Join now and discover the fun in this fantastic ski club.

Address: 716 6th Ave, New York, NY 10010

3. Jetty Jumpers

Homepage of Jetty Jumpers / jettyjumpers.com
Homepage of Jetty Jumpers / jettyjumpers.com

Jetty Jumpers is a touring company established in 1999.

Its tours are guided and allow you to see New York in a whole new way, with countless unforgettable memories guaranteed.

Capture the beautiful views of Brooklyn, New York, and New J. and weather permitting, you’ll pass through Manhattan, Coney Island, and Brighton – there’s more sightseeing than jet skiing.

Jetty Jumpers brings up close and personal with various NY landmarks Statue of Liberty, Coney Island, Verrazano Bridge, Ethan Island, and more.

Only eighteen years and older are allowed to operate the jet skis.

To ride as a passenger, you must be 16 to 17 at least and accompanied by your parents or guardians.

The season starts in April, lasts till October, and offers fine-set ski rentals.

Address: 375 Beach 92nd St, Rockaway Beach, NY 11693

Also see our article on Horseback Riding in New York.

Skiing in Eastern New York

1. Thunder Ridge Ski Area

Top of the main lift (the triple)  at the Thunder Ridge Ski Area / Wikipedia/ Ech25

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thunder_Ridge_Ski_Area#/media/File:Thunder_ridge_top_of_the_triple.jpg
Top of the main lift (the triple) at the Thunder Ridge Ski Area / Wikipedia/ Ech25

Thunder Ridge Ski Area is a small yet thrilling ski haven in Patterson, New York.

Being so close to New York City, Thunder Ridge may only receive a few snowfalls.

However, fear not, snow enthusiasts!

The ski area has impressive snowmaking capabilities that can cover 95% of the mountain, ensuring an enjoyable skiing or snowboarding experience whenever you visit.

But wait, there’s more!

Thunder Ridge Ski also offers racing opportunities for ages 8 through 19, making it an excellent place to nurture and showcase your competitive spirit.

You might discover the next skiing or snowboarding prodigy within you!

There are professionals available to guide the skiers to avoid injuries, and if there are, provision has been made for quick and effective treatments, so there is no need to fret.

Address: 137 Birch Hill Rd, Patterson, NY 12563

2. Alberta Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined

Homepage of Alberta Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined / skijumpingalberta.com
Homepage of Alberta Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined / skijumpingalberta.com

Alberta, Canada, is a winter sports paradise.

One organization that has been making waves in the skiing world since its establishment in 1991 is the Alberta Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined Association (ASJNCA). 

The ASJNCA sits in the iconic Canada Olympic Park in Calgary, which was the epicenter of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. 

This park boasts five ski jumps constructed for the event.

Although one is no longer in use, the remaining four jumps – K89, K60, K38, and K18 – are active year-round, welcoming athletes and enthusiasts of all levels.

These ski jumps serve as a testament to the region’s rich skiing history and a symbol of the continued commitment of the ASJNCA to fostering the growth and development of these sports in the province.

Address: 1 Liberty St, New York, NY 10006

3. Plattekill Mountain

Homepage of Plattekill Mountain / plattekill.com
Homepage of Plattekill Mountain / plattekill.com

Plattekill Mountain, a privately owned and operated resort, boasts a vertical drop of 1,100 feet (340 meters) and 38 trails with varying difficulty levels.

At an elevation of 2,400 feet, Plattekill Mountain’s main lodge is the perfect starting point for a day filled with winter sports.

As you make your way up to the highest peak, which reaches an impressive elevation of 3,500 feet, you’ll get breathtaking views and a diverse selection of trails that cater to all skill levels.

One of Plattekill Mountain’s most distinctive features is its “natural terrain park,” tucked away in the woods between the Lower Face and Shredded Mozzarella trails.

This park also provides skiing lessons for adult beginners and kids, on-site dining, and holds exciting events every winter and summer.

Address: 469 Plattekill Rd, Roxbury, NY 12474

Also see our article on Apple Picking in New York.

Skiing in Lake Placid, New York

1. Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort

Homepage of Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort / whiteface.com
Homepage of Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort / whiteface.com

When you think of the Northeast United States, you might picture vibrant fall foliage or bustling city streets.

But did you know that this region is also home to one of the top ski resorts in the country? 

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort isn’t just any ski area; it’s run by the Olympic Regional Development Authority, giving it a unique connection to the world of competitive winter sports.

Talk about a mountain with a storied past; this resort was a prime venue during the 1980 Winter Olympics, hosting all six alpine ski events. 

Whiteface Mountain has an impressive selection of trails and terrain.

With the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies, the mountain offers 90 tracks and 11 high-speed lifts, ensuring visitors always enjoy the slopes.

Address: Whiteface Mountain, 5021 Route 86, Wilmington, NY 12997

2. Titus Mountain

Homepage of Titus Mountain / titusmountain.com
Homepage of Titus Mountain / titusmountain.com

Nestled in the stunning mountains of northern New York, Titus Mountain – or simply “Titus” as it’s affectionately known – is a popular downhill ski area that spans three majestic mountains. 

Whether you’re an experienced skier or a novice snowboarder, prepare to be wowed by the 27 kilometers of slopes that await you in this winter sports wonderland.

What truly sets Titus Mountain apart from other ski resorts is its laid-back atmosphere, short lift lines, and uncrowded slopes.

Plus, with both its day and night skiing available, you can satisfy your snow cravings from sunrise to sunset (and beyond!). 

And if skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, no need to worry – the Tubing Hill at Titus is a thrilling alternative that will surely get your adrenaline pumping.

Address: 215 Johnson Road, Malone, NY 12953

3. Olympic Ski Jump Tower

Picture of Olympic Ski Jump Tower / Wikipedia / Dan Carmichael

Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Jumps.jpg
Picture of Olympic Ski Jump Tower / Wikipedia / Dan Carmichael

Ever wondered what it feels like to fly?

Well, for ski jumping athletes, this incredible sensation becomes a reality as they launch themselves off the Olympic Ski Jump Tower.

Located within the scenic municipality of Lake Placid, NY, lies a breathtaking structure that epitomizes athletic excellence and stands as a remarkable testament to engineering and architectural marvel.

The Olympic Ski Jump Tower is an integral component of the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex2, built for the 1980 Olympic Games.

This complex boasts two ski jump towers – the HS100-meter and HS128-meter – allowing athletes to push their limits and redefine the boundaries of their sport.

Grab your skis or snowboard to embark on a memorable winter escapade at Olympic Ski Jump Tower – where snowy dreams come to life!

Address: 52 Ski Jump Ln, Lake Placid, NY 12946

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Family Activities, Outdoor Activities, and Date Ideas in New York.

Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the best Skiing Spots in Florida and Illinois.

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