Unearth The Voyage
New York might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of skiing, but it punches way above its weight. From the Adirondacks to the Catskills and beyond, the Empire State is home to mountains with serious vertical, long runs, and terrain parks that keep riders coming back all season.
Whether you’re chasing steep drops, planning a family getaway, or just want to squeeze in a few runs under the lights after work, there’s a resort here that fits the bill.
1. Whiteface Mountain (Wilmington/Lake Placid)
Standing tall with the biggest vertical drop east of the Rockies, Whiteface delivers a mountain experience that feels more like the West than the Northeast. At 3,430 feet of vertical, it’s not just a number on a map—it’s a legitimate alpine challenge that draws serious skiers and riders from across the region.
The trail count is deep, the elevation is real, and the views from the summit are the kind that make you stop and take a photo even when your legs are screaming.
Whiteface hosted Olympic events back in 1980, and that legacy still shows in the way the mountain is laid out. You’ll find everything from mellow cruisers to double-black chutes, plus glades that open up after a good snowfall.
The upper mountain can get icy and windswept, so pick your days wisely or bring your sharpest edges.
Families will appreciate the dedicated learning zones lower on the mountain, while advanced skiers can lap the summit chair all day. Whiteface isn’t always the easiest mountain to ski, but that’s part of the appeal.
If you want big vert and bragging rights, this is the spot that delivers both in spades.
2. Gore Mountain (North Creek)
Gore is what happens when a mountain just keeps growing. Spread across multiple peaks and loaded with lifts, it’s a place where you can spend an entire weekend and still find new trails to explore.
The resort’s footprint is massive by Eastern standards, with enough variety to keep intermediate and advanced skiers entertained for days. Cruisers, glades, steeps, and long blues—Gore has all of it, and then some.
One of the best things about Gore is how it’s divided into different pods. You can stick to one zone if you’re with beginners, or hopscotch between peaks if you’re hunting for fresh lines.
The Burnt Ridge area offers mellow terrain, while the main face and Topridge bring the challenge. On powder days, the tree skiing here is some of the best in the state.
Because Gore is state-run, lift tickets tend to be more affordable than private resorts, which is a nice bonus. The vibe is laid-back and local, without the flash of bigger-name mountains.
If you want serious acreage, good snow, and the freedom to roam, Gore delivers a full-on exploration experience that rewards curiosity and stamina.
3. Belleayre Mountain (Highmount)
Tucked into the Catskills, Belleayre has quietly built a reputation as one of the most well-rounded mountains in the region. With a legit vertical drop for the area and a trail mix that balances challenge and accessibility, it’s a mountain that works for families, progressing skiers, and anyone looking for a solid day on snow without the chaos.
The terrain is thoughtfully laid out, with distinct zones that let you pick your pace.
Belleayre is another state-run facility, which means lower prices and a more community-focused vibe. The upper mountain offers steeper pitches and fast fall lines, while the lower slopes are perfect for building confidence or teaching kids.
Snowmaking coverage is strong, and the grooming crew does a great job keeping things smooth even when Mother Nature isn’t cooperating.
What makes Belleayre stand out is how it manages to feel both approachable and legitimate. You’re not going to mistake it for a mega-resort, but you’re also not going to feel shortchanged on vertical or variety.
It’s the kind of place where you can bring the whole crew and everyone finds something they enjoy, which is harder to pull off than it sounds.
4. Hunter Mountain (Hunter)
Hunter has long been the go-to mountain for New York City skiers who want real vertical without a five-hour drive. At 1,600 feet, it’s got enough drop to feel like a proper ski day, and the snowmaking system is one of the most aggressive in the Northeast.
That means Hunter can open early, stay open late, and keep coverage consistent even when the weather isn’t cooperating. It’s a workhorse mountain that delivers reliability.
The terrain is varied, with plenty of cruisers for warming up and steeper options for pushing your limits. Hunter also has a solid terrain park scene, which draws a younger crowd and keeps things lively on weekends.
Because it’s so close to the city, expect crowds on Saturdays, but midweek and Sundays can be surprisingly mellow.
Hunter has invested heavily in upgrades over the years, from high-speed lifts to improved base facilities. The mountain can feel a bit corporate compared to some of the smaller, scrappier resorts, but that polish also means better infrastructure and more consistent conditions.
If you’re short on time but not on ambition, Hunter is a smart pick that won’t let you down.
5. Windham Mountain Club (Windham)
Windham is in the middle of a transition, shifting from a traditional lift-ticket mountain to more of a club-based model. It’s no longer part of the Ikon Pass lineup, which means you’ll need to plan ahead and buy directly from the resort.
That shift has changed the vibe a bit, but the mountain itself is still a solid choice with a good mix of terrain and a base village that feels more developed than most Catskills resorts.
The trails at Windham are well-groomed and spread across multiple faces, giving you options depending on conditions and crowds. There’s a strong beginner zone, a handful of legitimate black diamonds, and enough intermediate cruisers to keep most skiers happy.
The snowmaking is top-notch, and the resort does a good job of keeping things open even during lean snow years.
What Windham offers is a bit more polish and amenities than some of the scrappier mountains in the area. The base village has lodging, dining, and a resort feel that makes it easier to turn a ski day into a full weekend.
Just make sure you check the current pass and ticket situation before you go, because the club model means the old strategies don’t always apply anymore.
6. Holiday Valley (Ellicottville)
Out in Western New York, Holiday Valley has built a reputation as a true four-season resort, but winter is when it really shines. With a large trail network, strong snowmaking, and one of the best night-skiing programs in the state, it’s a destination that works for day-trippers and weekenders alike.
The resort base is well-developed, with lodging, dining, and a village feel that makes it easy to settle in for a few days.
The terrain at Holiday Valley is varied enough to keep things interesting. You’ll find fast groomers, playful glades, and a handful of steeper runs that test your skills without being intimidating.
The night-skiing setup is extensive, covering a big chunk of the mountain and staying open late enough to make it worth the trip. Snowmaking coverage is solid, which means consistent conditions even when natural snow is scarce.
Holiday Valley also does a great job with families. There are dedicated learning areas, ski schools, and enough mellow terrain to keep younger or less experienced skiers engaged.
The vibe is welcoming and community-focused, with a loyal local crowd that keeps coming back season after season. If you’re looking for a resort experience in New York that doesn’t skimp on amenities or terrain, this is a strong pick.
7. Greek Peak Mountain Resort (Virgil)
Greek Peak sits in Central New York and offers a resort-style experience that’s hard to find in the region. With substantial acreage, a well-rounded trail mix, and a base area that includes lodging and dining, it’s built for skiers who want to turn a day trip into a full weekend without driving all the way to the Adirondacks or Vermont.
The mountain has invested in infrastructure over the years, and it shows in the lift system and snowmaking coverage.
The terrain at Greek Peak is diverse enough to keep things interesting. You’ll find long cruisers, a handful of steeps, and some fun glades when conditions allow.
The mountain also has a terrain park that’s popular with younger riders, plus a tubing hill that’s great for families. Night skiing is available on a good chunk of the mountain, which makes it easy to maximize your time on snow.
What sets Greek Peak apart is how it balances accessibility with amenities. It’s not the biggest mountain in New York, but it’s big enough to feel like a real resort, and the location makes it a convenient option for skiers coming from Syracuse, Rochester, or even further afield.
If you want a full resort experience without the drive to the major mountains, Greek Peak delivers a solid package.
8. Bristol Mountain (Canandaigua)
Bristol Mountain is a favorite among skiers who want to hit the slopes after work or squeeze in a few extra runs before calling it a night. With 1,200 feet of vertical and extensive night-skiing operations, it’s one of the best options in the state for evening sessions.
The mountain is located in the Finger Lakes region, which makes it accessible from Rochester and surrounding areas, and the vibe is friendly and low-key.
The terrain at Bristol is well-suited for intermediate and advanced skiers, with a good mix of groomed runs and some steeper pitches that keep things interesting. The night-skiing setup is impressive, covering a significant portion of the mountain and staying open late enough to make it worth the trip.
Snowmaking is strong, and the grooming crew does a great job of keeping conditions consistent throughout the season.
Bristol also has a terrain park that’s popular with snowboarders and younger skiers, plus a tubing park for families. The base area is compact but functional, with everything you need for a quick ski session or a full day on the mountain.
If you’re looking for a mountain that fits into a busy schedule without sacrificing quality, Bristol is a smart choice that delivers on both fronts.
9. Peek’n Peak (Clymer)
Peek’n Peak is a true destination resort that straddles the New York-Pennsylvania border, offering lodging, dining, and a large night-skiing footprint that makes it a popular choice for weekend getaways. The resort has a well-developed base area with multiple accommodation options, which makes it easy to turn a ski day into a full winter retreat.
The mountain itself is solid, with enough terrain to keep most skiers entertained for a couple of days.
One of the best features at Peek’n Peak is the live conditions reporting. The resort does a great job of keeping skiers informed about what’s open, what’s groomed, and what the snow looks like, which makes day-of planning a lot easier.
The night-skiing program is extensive, covering a big chunk of the mountain and staying open late enough to make it worth the trip. Snowmaking coverage is strong, and the grooming is consistent.
The terrain at Peek’n Peak is varied, with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. There are also terrain parks and tubing hills, which make it a great option for families or groups with mixed ability levels.
The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with a loyal crowd that keeps coming back season after season. If you’re looking for a resort that offers more than just skiing, Peek’n Peak is a solid pick.
10. Plattekill Mountain (Roxbury)
Plattekill is the mountain for skiers who want to escape the corporate ski experience and get back to basics. With 41 trails and 1,100 feet of vertical, it’s not the biggest mountain in the Catskills, but it’s one of the most beloved.
The vibe here is fiercely independent, with a loyal following that appreciates the no-frills approach and the focus on real skiing. There are no high-speed lifts, no fancy base villages, and no pretense—just good terrain and a laid-back atmosphere.
The mountain is known for its old-school character and challenging terrain. On powder days, Plattekill opens up glades and natural snow zones that other mountains might rope off, which makes it a favorite among advanced skiers.
The grooming is solid on the main trails, but the real fun is off the beaten path. Weekdays can be quiet, which means you might have whole sections of the mountain to yourself.
Plattekill is open Friday through Sunday, which keeps overhead low and tickets affordable. The ski school is excellent, and the staff genuinely cares about creating a good experience.
If you’re tired of cookie-cutter resorts and want something with personality and soul, Plattekill is the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with skiing in the first place.
11. Catamount Mountain Resort (Hillsdale)
Sitting right on the New York-Massachusetts border, Catamount is a convenient option for skiers coming from the Hudson Valley, Berkshires, or even downstate. With 1,000 feet of vertical and a good mix of terrain, it’s a mountain that works for day trips and weekend outings alike.
The location is a big part of the appeal—close enough to make it doable on a whim, but far enough to feel like you’ve actually gone skiing.
Catamount has a solid trail network that includes everything from gentle greens to steep blacks. The mountain is well-groomed, and the snowmaking coverage is strong, which means you can count on decent conditions even when natural snow is scarce.
There’s also a terrain park that’s popular with younger riders, plus a tubing hill for families. The base area is compact but functional, with everything you need for a good ski day.
One of the best things about Catamount is how it balances accessibility with challenge. It’s not the biggest mountain in the region, but it’s big enough to keep things interesting, and the vibe is welcoming without being overly crowded.
If you’re looking for a mountain that’s easy to get to and delivers a solid ski experience without a lot of fuss, Catamount is a reliable choice that punches above its weight.
12. West Mountain (Queensbury/Lake George area)
West Mountain is the perfect add-on to a Lake George or Saratoga winter weekend. With 1,010 feet of vertical and night-skiing options, it’s a mountain that fits easily into a broader trip without requiring a full commitment.
The location is ideal for families or groups who want to mix skiing with other winter activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, or just exploring the Lake George area.
The terrain at West Mountain is well-suited for beginner and intermediate skiers, with a handful of steeper runs for more advanced riders. The mountain is compact, which makes it easy to navigate and keeps things low-stress for families with younger kids.
Night skiing is a big draw, covering a good portion of the mountain and staying open late enough to make it worth the trip. Snowmaking coverage is solid, and the grooming is consistent.
West Mountain has a friendly, community-focused vibe that makes it a great option for casual skiers or anyone looking for a relaxed day on snow. The base area is functional, with everything you need for a quick ski session or a full afternoon.
If you’re already planning a winter trip to the Lake George region, West Mountain is an easy and enjoyable way to add some skiing to the itinerary without a lot of extra planning or expense.
13. Titus Mountain (Malone)
Way up near the Canadian border, Titus Mountain is a bit of a hidden gem that surprises first-time visitors with its size and scope. With 1,200 feet of vertical and a solid trail network, it’s bigger than many skiers expect, especially given its remote location.
The mountain has a loyal local following, and the conditions hub on their website makes it easy to plan your trip and know exactly what to expect when you arrive.
The terrain at Titus is varied, with a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. The mountain is well-groomed, and the snowmaking coverage is strong, which means consistent conditions throughout the season.
There are also glades and natural snow zones that open up on good snow days, which keeps things interesting for more advanced skiers. The vibe is low-key and welcoming, with a focus on families and local skiers.
Titus is far enough north that it tends to get colder temperatures and more natural snow than some of the mountains further south, which is a nice bonus. The base area is functional, with everything you need for a good ski day, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
If you’re looking for a mountain that’s off the beaten path but still delivers a solid ski experience, Titus is worth the drive.
14. McCauley Mountain (Old Forge)
McCauley Mountain is proof that you don’t need big numbers to have a big time. With 633 feet of vertical, it’s one of the smaller mountains on this list, but it’s also one of the most fun.
The mountain has a classic, old-school vibe that’s all about enjoying the day and not worrying about stats or status. It’s a favorite among families and skiers who remember when skiing was simpler and less expensive.
The terrain at McCauley is compact but well-designed, with a good mix of beginner and intermediate runs that keep things interesting. The mountain is well-groomed, and the snowmaking coverage is solid, which means you can count on decent conditions even when natural snow is scarce.
There’s also a terrain park and a tubing hill, which makes it a great option for families or groups with mixed interests.
McCauley is located in Old Forge, which is a classic Adirondack town with a strong winter tourism scene. The mountain fits perfectly into a broader winter trip that might include snowmobiling, ice fishing, or just exploring the area.
The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with a focus on fun rather than flash. If you’re looking for a mountain that delivers a lot of enjoyment in a small package, McCauley is a classic that still holds up.
15. Oak Mountain (Speculator)
Oak Mountain keeps things simple, scenic, and family-friendly. With 650 feet of vertical and a solid variety of runs for its size, it’s a mountain that’s perfect for introducing kids to skiing or just enjoying a low-key day on snow.
The location in Speculator is beautiful, with classic Adirondack scenery that makes the drive part of the experience. The mountain has a small-town feel that’s welcoming and unpretentious.
The terrain at Oak Mountain is well-suited for beginner and intermediate skiers, with a handful of runs that offer a bit more challenge for advancing riders. The mountain is well-groomed, and the snowmaking coverage is solid, which means consistent conditions throughout the season.
There’s also a tubing hill and a ski school that’s great for younger kids or first-timers. The vibe is relaxed and community-focused, with a loyal local crowd.
Oak Mountain is the kind of place where you go to enjoy skiing without a lot of pressure or expectations. The base area is simple but functional, with everything you need for a good day on the mountain.
If you’re looking for a mountain that prioritizes fun and accessibility over size and flash, Oak Mountain delivers a charming, old-school ski experience that’s hard to find these days.
