SKIING
Where to Stay Near Stratton & Mount Snow
A local's guide to the towns and homes that make the best base for a Stratton or Mount Snow ski trip, and for the rest of the year, too.
Stratton and Mount Snow are Southern Vermont's two biggest mountains, and the small towns between them make a wonderful base: quieter than the resort villages, closer to the rivers and trails, and full of homes with more character than a condo.
Between the mountains: Wardsboro
Wardsboro sits roughly between Mount Snow and Stratton, which makes it easy to split a trip between the two. It's also a beautiful place to be in summer and fall, with the Green Mountain National Forest close by.
Closest to Stratton: Jamaica
Jamaica is a classic West River village a short drive from Stratton, and home to Jamaica State Park, with its river swimming and the trail to Hamilton Falls.
Near Mount Snow: Readsboro
South of Mount Snow, Readsboro is quiet and wooded, close to Harriman Reservoir for summer paddling.
For Magic, Bromley and beyond: Windham
If you'd rather ski somewhere smaller, Windham puts you about ten minutes from Magic Mountain and within about 25 to 35 minutes of Bromley, Stratton and Okemo.
Ski-trip tips from locals
- Drive with winter in mind. AWD or 4WD makes a real difference on hills and dirt roads.
- Stock up before you arrive. Grocery options thin out the closer you get to the mountains.
- Consider midweek. Lift lines, roads and restaurants are all calmer Monday to Thursday.