It doesn't get better than Extra Blue skiing at Woodstock Nordic Center.

The Best of Cross Country Skiing in Vermont

January 2nd, 2025 | by Carina Hamel, Charlotte Ogden, and Peggy Shinn

All of us at Bivo love to cross-country ski — in particular, the three of us. Carina first skied in Western Massachusetts when she was two years old, trying to chase after her older sister. Through racing in New England and living in Vermont for a total of 10 years, Carina has skied at almost every Nordic center in the state . New England has some of the best nordic skiing in the country — and is a major reason why Bivo is located here!

Charlotte grew up in Landgrove and was on skis as soon as she could walk. Going from living in Landgrove (southern Vermont) to Middlebury (central) to Burlington (northern), Charlotte has never spent a full winter outside of Vermont and has skied at her fair share of Nordic trail systems all across the state. Her college and high school racing careers took her to trails all over the country, and sometimes the world, but nothing could top the ski trails and culture in Vermont.

Growing up in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, Peggy’s first love was alpine skiing. But by high school, she had discovered the aerobic super-powers instilled by cross-country skiing. She learned to skate ski in 1984—from a college racer who’d just learned the technique from Bill Koch (who won the overall World Cup title in 1982 thanks to this “new” stride)—and she was hooked. When she started bike racing, skate skiing was the perfect winter cross-training sport. She too has skied at most of Vermont’s Nordic ski areas.

One of the reasons the three of us are happy to live in Vermont is because cross-country skiing is so accessible.

The Vermont Ski Areas Association (known as Ski Vermont) lists 28 Nordic centers as members. From the renowned Trapp Family Lodge — of Sound of Music fame — to a number of municipal trail systems, like the Brattleboro Outing Club in far southern Vermont to the Memphremagog Trails almost on the Canadian border, the state is dotted with cross-country ski areas.

Here are a few of our recommendations, depending on what type of experience you’re looking for.

All of us at Bivo love to cross-country ski — in particular, the three of us. Carina first skied in Western Massachusetts when she was two years old, trying to chase after her older sister. Through racing in New England and living in Vermont for a total of 10 years, Carina has skied at almost every Nordic center in the state . New England has some of the best nordic skiing in the country — and is a major reason why Bivo is located here!

Charlotte grew up in Landgrove and was on skis as soon as she could walk. Going from living in Landgrove (southern Vermont) to Middlebury (central) to Burlington (northern), Charlotte has never spent a full winter outside of Vermont and has skied at her fair share of Nordic trail systems all across the state. Her college and high school racing careers took her to trails all over the country, and sometimes the world, but nothing could top the ski trails and culture in Vermont.

Growing up in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, Peggy’s first love was alpine skiing. But by high school, she had discovered the aerobic super-powers instilled by cross-country skiing. She learned to skate ski in 1984—from a college racer who’d just learned the technique from Bill Koch (who won the overall World Cup title in 1982 thanks to this “new” stride)—and she was hooked. When she started bike racing, skate skiing was the perfect winter cross-training sport. She too has skied at most of Vermont’s Nordic ski areas.

One of the reasons the three of us are happy to live in Vermont is because cross-country skiing is so accessible.

The Vermont Ski Areas Association (known as Ski Vermont) lists 28 Nordic centers as members. From the renowned Trapp Family Lodge — of Sound of Music fame — to a number of municipal trail systems, like the Brattleboro Outing Club in far southern Vermont to the Memphremagog Trails almost on the Canadian border, the state is dotted with cross-country ski areas.

Here are a few of our recommendations, depending on what type of experience you’re looking for.

Best Skiing

Northern Vermont

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury):Skiing at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center is a quintessential New England winter experience. Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, Craftsbury boasts over 100 kilometers of meticulously groomed trails that wind through serene forests, open meadows, and picturesque terrain. When you have a picture of Vermont in your head, it likely looks like Craftsbury: big, open landscapes sprinkled with quaint red barns. The terrain at Craftsbury offers something for everyone, from gentle loops perfect for beginners to challenging climbs that test even the most seasoned skiers. Whether you're gliding through freshly fallen snow or soaking in the stunning rolling hill views, Craftsbury delivers arguably some of the best classic skiing in the world.
Camel’s Hump Nordic (Huntington, VT):If you’re up for some climbing and beautiful views, Camel’s Hump Nordic is a great place to go. Run by a non-profit, the center has a very quaint and low-key feel. When snow levels are low, Camel’s Hump has the extra elevation advantage to hold the snow. It is a long, long climb up, but the fast and turny downhill is worth the effort.

Central Vermont

Woodstock Nordic Center (Woodstock): Woodstock’s Mt. Peg trail network has something for everyone — including a black diamond trail ominously (or hilariously?) called Trail of the Fallen Woman. But stick to the network’s green and blue trails, and you’ll feel like a hero. Ski Flatlander to the Knox Meadow loops and back on Brookside West to the Lollipop Loop, and you’ll log 5km+ before you know it. Scavenger hunt item: find the 2018 Olympic gold medal honoring Kikkan Randall and Jessie Diggins’ historic team sprint win at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics. It’s hanging on a trail sign.
Ole’s Cross Country Ski & Snowshoe Center (Warren): There are bigger and glitzier Nordic centers in Vermont. But few have as many groomed trails that gently roll through open meadows, with views of Sugarbush and the Green Mountains — perfect to get into a rhythm on skate skis and feel like a hero.
Rikert Outdoor Center (Ripton): When it comes to skiing, the ROC is a great place to go. Their trails are wide, you can easily skate without colliding tips with anyone or gliding over the classic track and you can always count on a well groomed, firm track for perfect skiing. If you are interested in more climbing, take the rollercoaster of a race course or you can choose to meander through the flatter fields and appreciate the Ripton hills.

Southern Vermont

Prospect Mountain (Woodford): Once an alpine ski area, Prospect now has a 30km trail network that’s groomed wide for skate skiing (with classic tracks on the sides of the groomed track). Loop upon loop of trails roll through the forest without gaining much elevation, making for an I’m-a-hero skating skiing experience. Those who want to see how long they can V2 uphill can try the recommended 6.8km “Outer Loop,” which includes a trail simply called “Hill.” The base lodge was built for alpine skiing so is larger than most in the Nordic world and has a kitchen that serves yummy filling fare on busy days.
Wild Wings (Peru): If you are looking for a picturesque day of classic skiing, Wild Wings in Peru is the place for you. They have the perfect mix of state-of-the-art grooming with 25 kilometers of narrow, winding trails. You can skate ski at Wild Wings too; in 2018 they opened their new trail Peregrine to skate skiers and have since expanded a few of the classic options to include classic and skate, but the true beauty of Wild Wings lies in their classic skiing. If you are looking for a wilderness adventure on your classic skis, head up Lower, Middle, and Upper Bluejay for a long single track loop that takes you far away from any roads or houses. Check their trail map to see what birds and animals have been spotted on which trail and keep your eyes out for any woodpeckers as you reach the end of Upper Bluejay.

Northern Vermont

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury):Skiing at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center is a quintessential New England winter experience. Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, Craftsbury boasts over 100 kilometers of meticulously groomed trails that wind through serene forests, open meadows, and picturesque terrain. When you have a picture of Vermont in your head, it likely looks like Craftsbury: big, open landscapes sprinkled with quaint red barns. The terrain at Craftsbury offers something for everyone, from gentle loops perfect for beginners to challenging climbs that test even the most seasoned skiers. Whether you're gliding through freshly fallen snow or soaking in the stunning rolling hill views, Craftsbury delivers arguably some of the best classic skiing in the world.
Camel’s Hump Nordic (Huntington, VT):If you’re up for some climbing and beautiful views, Camel’s Hump Nordic is a great place to go. Run by a non-profit, the center has a very quaint and low-key feel. When snow levels are low, Camel’s Hump has the extra elevation advantage to hold the snow. It is a long, long climb up, but the fast and turny downhill is worth the effort.

Central Vermont

Woodstock Nordic Center (Woodstock): Woodstock’s Mt. Peg trail network has something for everyone — including a black diamond trail ominously (or hilariously?) called Trail of the Fallen Woman. But stick to the network’s green and blue trails, and you’ll feel like a hero. Ski Flatlander to the Knox Meadow loops and back on Brookside West to the Lollipop Loop, and you’ll log 5km+ before you know it. Scavenger hunt item: find the 2018 Olympic gold medal honoring Kikkan Randall and Jessie Diggins’ historic team sprint win at the PyeongChang Winter Olympics. It’s hanging on a trail sign.
Ole’s Cross Country Ski & Snowshoe Center (Warren): There are bigger and glitzier Nordic centers in Vermont. But few have as many groomed trails that gently roll through open meadows, with views of Sugarbush and the Green Mountains — perfect to get into a rhythm on skate skis and feel like a hero.
Rikert Outdoor Center (Ripton): When it comes to skiing, the ROC is a great place to go. Their trails are wide, you can easily skate without colliding tips with anyone or gliding over the classic track and you can always count on a well groomed, firm track for perfect skiing. If you are interested in more climbing, take the rollercoaster of a race course or you can choose to meander through the flatter fields and appreciate the Ripton hills.

Southern Vermont

Prospect Mountain (Woodford): Once an alpine ski area, Prospect now has a 30km trail network that’s groomed wide for skate skiing (with classic tracks on the sides of the groomed track). Loop upon loop of trails roll through the forest without gaining much elevation, making for an I’m-a-hero skating skiing experience. Those who want to see how long they can V2 uphill can try the recommended 6.8km “Outer Loop,” which includes a trail simply called “Hill.” The base lodge was built for alpine skiing so is larger than most in the Nordic world and has a kitchen that serves yummy filling fare on busy days.
Wild Wings (Peru): If you are looking for a picturesque day of classic skiing, Wild Wings in Peru is the place for you. They have the perfect mix of state-of-the-art grooming with 25 kilometers of narrow, winding trails. You can skate ski at Wild Wings too; in 2018 they opened their new trail Peregrine to skate skiers and have since expanded a few of the classic options to include classic and skate, but the true beauty of Wild Wings lies in their classic skiing. If you are looking for a wilderness adventure on your classic skis, head up Lower, Middle, and Upper Bluejay for a long single track loop that takes you far away from any roads or houses. Check their trail map to see what birds and animals have been spotted on which trail and keep your eyes out for any woodpeckers as you reach the end of Upper Bluejay.

Best for Ski and Stay

Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe): The Austrian-inspired lodge, still owned by the von Trapp family, offers an expansive view — and an expansive trail network. Trek wayyyyy up to the Cabin, then enjoy the ski back down, or glide through the meadow below the lodge and feel transported — to Austria itself or out West, where the views go on forever. Your efforts will be rewarded with linzer torte in the Kaffeehaus, hot soup and cocoa at the Cabin, or wiener schnitzel in the dining room. And what would an Austrian-style resort be without a bierhall? Von Trapp Brewery makes its own beer. Oh, and the rooms are pretty luxe too.
Woodstock Nordic Center (Woodstock): Woodstock has 45 kilometers of groomed ski trails in two networks: Mt. Peg and Mt. Tom, the “Mt” being a clue that there’s some climbing here. But the Mt. Peg trail network also has lovely flat trails too (see “Best for Skating” above). Nearby, the Woodstock Inn can make you feel like a Rockefeller (they once owned the place, and it’s since been remodeled). The classic grand hotel also has a modern 10,000-square-foot spa with a full menu of treatments. CBD massage anyone?
Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): Not a traditional resort, Craftsbury is more like an Olympic training center with room (and board!) for mortals as well. Accommodations range from traditional dorm rooms to lovely modern cabins with a Scandinavian feel — with 105 kilometers of great trails literally out the front door. But what makes Craftsbury so memorable is the food. The price of your room includes three meals a day, made from locally-sourced ingredients and served buffet-style in the dining hall. Far from institutional food, you’ll think your grandmother is in the kitchen — your nice grandmother … who takes cooking classes. And those Olympians? You’ll be dining next to them.
Blueberry Hill Inn (Goshen): To get away from it all, try Blueberry Hill a few miles east of Brandon — but leave your fancy skate skis at home. The Outdoor Center’s trail network — with nary a bar of cell service — laces through the Green Mountain National Forest and is not groomed. So it’s best accessed on metal-edged backcountry skis. Back at the inn, with its 10 rooms and a separate cottage, the chocolate chip cookies are famous. Also not to be missed, the pre-fix farmhouse dinners on many Friday and Saturday nights (BYOB) throughout the winter. Check the dinner calendar before booking your stay — or else you’ll feel as if you’re a bit TOO far out there! Other amenities include a wood-fired sauna near the pond, for a cold dip between sessions.

Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe): The Austrian-inspired lodge, still owned by the von Trapp family, offers an expansive view — and an expansive trail network. Trek wayyyyy up to the Cabin, then enjoy the ski back down, or glide through the meadow below the lodge and feel transported — to Austria itself or out West, where the views go on forever. Your efforts will be rewarded with linzer torte in the Kaffeehaus, hot soup and cocoa at the Cabin, or wiener schnitzel in the dining room. And what would an Austrian-style resort be without a bierhall? Von Trapp Brewery makes its own beer. Oh, and the rooms are pretty luxe too.
Woodstock Nordic Center (Woodstock): Woodstock has 45 kilometers of groomed ski trails in two networks: Mt. Peg and Mt. Tom, the “Mt” being a clue that there’s some climbing here. But the Mt. Peg trail network also has lovely flat trails too (see “Best for Skating” above). Nearby, the Woodstock Inn can make you feel like a Rockefeller (they once owned the place, and it’s since been remodeled). The classic grand hotel also has a modern 10,000-square-foot spa with a full menu of treatments. CBD massage anyone?
Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): Not a traditional resort, Craftsbury is more like an Olympic training center with room (and board!) for mortals as well. Accommodations range from traditional dorm rooms to lovely modern cabins with a Scandinavian feel — with 105 kilometers of great trails literally out the front door. But what makes Craftsbury so memorable is the food. The price of your room includes three meals a day, made from locally-sourced ingredients and served buffet-style in the dining hall. Far from institutional food, you’ll think your grandmother is in the kitchen — your nice grandmother … who takes cooking classes. And those Olympians? You’ll be dining next to them.
Blueberry Hill Inn (Goshen): To get away from it all, try Blueberry Hill a few miles east of Brandon — but leave your fancy skate skis at home. The Outdoor Center’s trail network — with nary a bar of cell service — laces through the Green Mountain National Forest and is not groomed. So it’s best accessed on metal-edged backcountry skis. Back at the inn, with its 10 rooms and a separate cottage, the chocolate chip cookies are famous. Also not to be missed, the pre-fix farmhouse dinners on many Friday and Saturday nights (BYOB) throughout the winter. Check the dinner calendar before booking your stay — or else you’ll feel as if you’re a bit TOO far out there! Other amenities include a wood-fired sauna near the pond, for a cold dip between sessions.

We don't recommend skiing with one ski above your head, but we do recommend staying at the Craftsbury trailside cabins!

Best With Kids

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): Ok, it probably seems like we really love Craftsbury at this point, and to be honest, it’s pretty unreal. Craftsbury’s modern, sustainable lodge provides a perfect place to come inside and take a break from the snow - if you can convince the kids to take their skis off. Right out the door is an open field with a “bumps” course, a steep downhill to practice high speeds on a giant snow mound that keeps kids playing all day long. For those that didn’t pack enough snacks, the food inside is healthy and the kids love it. 6 and under ski for free, and only $5/day if older.
Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe): We save our sunny ski day adventures for Trapps. With a beautiful field overlooking the mountains, bring your chairs, picnic and skate and classic skis for an all-day outdoor hang. When your partner is taking a turn for a ski of their own, you will relish in the sunshine and the joy of watching your kids ski around the field. And if it’s a bit cold, you can head into their yurt or lodge with clean bathrooms. When the day is done, a fun afternoon snack or dinner in Stowe ends the day perfectly.
Viking Nordic Center (Londonderry): If you find yourself wanting to go skiing with kids in Southern Vermont, Viking is the place to go. Aside from having every size of ski and boot available to rent (down to size 1!), Viking has a great selection of beginner friendly trails and is one of the hubs for the local youth ski organization. If you need a little more motivation to get the kids out and skiing, you can get a free cookie punch card for all kids under 12. With punch card in hand, ski around the trails and look for each unique hole puncher and once the card is full it can be redeemed for a cookie in the warming lodge.
Catamount Outdoor Family Center (Williston): When looking for a quick outing from Burlington, head on over to Catamount. The center's commitment to accessibility and community is evident in its well-maintained trails and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're new to skiing or introducing your children to the sport, Catamount's terrain provides a safe and enjoyable environment to learn and explore. Unfortunately, global warming is taking its toll on Catamount, so we need a good snow storm to truly enjoy this gem in the winter.

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): Ok, it probably seems like we really love Craftsbury at this point, and to be honest, it’s pretty unreal. Craftsbury’s modern, sustainable lodge provides a perfect place to come inside and take a break from the snow - if you can convince the kids to take their skis off. Right out the door is an open field with a “bumps” course, a steep downhill to practice high speeds on a giant snow mound that keeps kids playing all day long. For those that didn’t pack enough snacks, the food inside is healthy and the kids love it. 6 and under ski for free, and only $5/day if older.
Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe): We save our sunny ski day adventures for Trapps. With a beautiful field overlooking the mountains, bring your chairs, picnic and skate and classic skis for an all-day outdoor hang. When your partner is taking a turn for a ski of their own, you will relish in the sunshine and the joy of watching your kids ski around the field. And if it’s a bit cold, you can head into their yurt or lodge with clean bathrooms. When the day is done, a fun afternoon snack or dinner in Stowe ends the day perfectly.
Viking Nordic Center (Londonderry): If you find yourself wanting to go skiing with kids in Southern Vermont, Viking is the place to go. Aside from having every size of ski and boot available to rent (down to size 1!), Viking has a great selection of beginner friendly trails and is one of the hubs for the local youth ski organization. If you need a little more motivation to get the kids out and skiing, you can get a free cookie punch card for all kids under 12. With punch card in hand, ski around the trails and look for each unique hole puncher and once the card is full it can be redeemed for a cookie in the warming lodge.
Catamount Outdoor Family Center (Williston): When looking for a quick outing from Burlington, head on over to Catamount. The center's commitment to accessibility and community is evident in its well-maintained trails and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're new to skiing or introducing your children to the sport, Catamount's terrain provides a safe and enjoyable environment to learn and explore. Unfortunately, global warming is taking its toll on Catamount, so we need a good snow storm to truly enjoy this gem in the winter.

Best With Kids

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): Ok, it probably seems like we really love Craftsbury at this point, and to be honest, it’s pretty unreal. Craftsbury’s modern, sustainable lodge provides a perfect place to come inside and take a break from the snow - if you can convince the kids to take their skis off. Right out the door is an open field with a “bumps” course, a steep downhill to practice high speeds on a giant snow mound that keeps kids playing all day long. For those that didn’t pack enough snacks, the food inside is healthy and the kids love it. 6 and under ski for free, and only $5/day if older.
Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe): We save our sunny ski day adventures for Trapps. With a beautiful field overlooking the mountains, bring your chairs, picnic and skate and classic skis for an all-day outdoor hang. When your partner is taking a turn for a ski of their own, you will relish in the sunshine and the joy of watching your kids ski around the field. And if it’s a bit cold, you can head into their yurt or lodge with clean bathrooms. When the day is done, a fun afternoon snack or dinner in Stowe ends the day perfectly.
Viking Nordic Center (Londonderry): If you find yourself wanting to go skiing with kids in Southern Vermont, Viking is the place to go. Aside from having every size of ski and boot available to rent (down to size 1!), Viking has a great selection of beginner friendly trails and is one of the hubs for the local youth ski organization. If you need a little more motivation to get the kids out and skiing, you can get a free cookie punch card for all kids under 12. With punch card in hand, ski around the trails and look for each unique hole puncher and once the card is full it can be redeemed for a cookie in the warming lodge.
Catamount Outdoor Family Center(Williston): When looking for a quick outing from Burlington, head on over to Catamount. The center's commitment to accessibility and community is evident in its well-maintained trails and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're new to skiing or introducing your children to the sport, Catamount's terrain provides a safe and enjoyable environment to learn and explore. Unfortunately, global warming is taking its toll on Catamount, so we need a good snow storm to truly enjoy this gem in the winter.

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): Ok, it probably seems like we really love Craftsbury at this point, and to be honest, it’s pretty unreal. Craftsbury’s modern, sustainable lodge provides a perfect place to come inside and take a break from the snow - if you can convince the kids to take their skis off. Right out the door is an open field with a “bumps” course, a steep downhill to practice high speeds on a giant snow mound that keeps kids playing all day long. For those that didn’t pack enough snacks, the food inside is healthy and the kids love it. 6 and under ski for free, and only $5/day if older.
Trapp Family Lodge (Stowe): We save our sunny ski day adventures for Trapps. With a beautiful field overlooking the mountains, bring your chairs, picnic and skate and classic skis for an all-day outdoor hang. When your partner is taking a turn for a ski of their own, you will relish in the sunshine and the joy of watching your kids ski around the field. And if it’s a bit cold, you can head into their yurt or lodge with clean bathrooms. When the day is done, a fun afternoon snack or dinner in Stowe ends the day perfectly.
Viking Nordic Center (Londonderry): If you find yourself wanting to go skiing with kids in Southern Vermont, Viking is the place to go. Aside from having every size of ski and boot available to rent (down to size 1!), Viking has a great selection of beginner friendly trails and is one of the hubs for the local youth ski organization. If you need a little more motivation to get the kids out and skiing, you can get a free cookie punch card for all kids under 12. With punch card in hand, ski around the trails and look for each unique hole puncher and once the card is full it can be redeemed for a cookie in the warming lodge.
Catamount Outdoor Family Center(Williston): When looking for a quick outing from Burlington, head on over to Catamount. The center's commitment to accessibility and community is evident in its well-maintained trails and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're new to skiing or introducing your children to the sport, Catamount's terrain provides a safe and enjoyable environment to learn and explore. Unfortunately, global warming is taking its toll on Catamount, so we need a good snow storm to truly enjoy this gem in the winter.

A perfect early season ski at Trapps with Carina's family.

Best for a Long Day in the Woods

Rikert Outdoor Center (Ripton): Rikert’s 55km trail network has it all. From a world class race course with snow making all around it, to long and meandering trails through the Breadloaf wilderness. After a big snowstorm, head into the Battell woods and get onto the outer trails. Start on Gilmore and Upper Gilmore and then take Wagonwheel Road to Old Farm Road and you’ll end up at the cabin of Robert Frost after a few hours in the woods. You might find yourself pondering whose woods these are, and you might think you know- his house is in the village though! From Robert Frost's cabin, you can take Frost and spend the night in the Burgin Lodge before beginning your ski back to the Outdoor Center. If you are really looking for an all-day adventure, you can connect to the Catamount Trail from the top of Wagonwheel Road and go on a whole other adventure outside of Rikert’s borders knowing that you will have some hot soup waiting for you at the center when you return.

Rikert Outdoor Center (Ripton): Rikert’s 55km trail network has it all. From a world class race course with snow making all around it, to long and meandering trails through the Breadloaf wilderness. After a big snowstorm, head into the Battell woods and get onto the outer trails. Start on Gilmore and Upper Gilmore and then take Wagonwheel Road to Old Farm Road and you’ll end up at the cabin of Robert Frost after a few hours in the woods. You might find yourself pondering whose woods these are, and you might think you know- his house is in the village though! From Robert Frost's cabin, you can take Frost and spend the night in the Burgin Lodge before beginning your ski back to the Outdoor Center. If you are really looking for an all-day adventure, you can connect to the Catamount Trail from the top of Wagonwheel Road and go on a whole other adventure outside of Rikert’s borders knowing that you will have some hot soup waiting for you at the center when you return.

Some skiers taking a detour onto a frozen beaver pond off of Wagonwheel Road.

Who's Got Snowmaking?

When Mother Nature and Father Winter squabble, several Vermont ski areas have us covered—with snowmaking.

Northern Vermont

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): On the forefront of sustainable skiing, Craftsbury makes snow on their core trails when temperatures allow. The center has also been experimenting with snow storage. They make snow during the coldest winter months, then cover the mound with woodchips to store over the summer. Using this saved snow, the center has reliably opened by Thanksgiving for the past few years — albeit only a 1 k loop. But in lean years, better than nothing!
Sleepy Hollow (Huntington): Just outside Burlington, Sleepy Hollow has a dedicated clientele that’s out skiing the 2.5 km snowmaking loop as soon as it opens. Lights on this loop keep Sleepy Hollow open Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, dusk to 8:30 p.m. Trails are groomed with an electric Prinoth — unique in the Nordic world. If you’re up for a mid-week community and race experience, join in on the Wednesday Night World’s race series followed by a potluck. According to local cyclist and skier, Jake Hollenbach, it’s the best thing in his life.

Central Vermont

Rikert Outdoor Center (Ripton): Home to Middlebury College’s ski team, which competes at the NCAA Division 1 level, Rikerts makes snow on the field outside the Nordic center and often gets loops open early season. They are also able to refresh trails after winter rains. But go early as the loop can get crowded with youth and college racers.
Woodstock Nordic Center (Woodstock): With a new fan gun, the Woodstock Nordic Center is hoping to keep people skiing on a meadow loop through winter’s warm spells. Woodstock’s groomer is also famous for farming trailside snow to boost the snowpack on the groomed trails.
Mountain Top Resort (Chittenden): High above Rutland, Mountain Top makes snow on a 2-km oval-shaped loop. It’s gently uphill on one side of the loop, gently down on the other. Round and round …

Southern Vermont

Prospect Mountain (Woodford): With the highest nordic base lodge in Vermont (“2250 feet of fun,” says their website), Prospect used to be the place to find early season snow in Vermont. But given fickle winters, the community non-profit that owns Prospect now covers 2km of trails with snowmaking. Those 2k are relatively flat, making it a good place to get your skinny skis back under you in early winter.

Who's Got Snowmaking?

When Mother Nature and Father Winter squabble, several Vermont ski areas have us covered—with snowmaking.

Northern Vermont

Craftsbury Outdoor Center (Craftsbury): On the forefront of sustainable skiing, Craftsbury makes snow on their core trails when temperatures allow. The center has also been experimenting with snow storage. They make snow during the coldest winter months, then cover the mound with woodchips to store over the summer. Using this saved snow, the center has reliably opened by Thanksgiving for the past few years — albeit only a 1 k loop. But in lean years, better than nothing!
Sleepy Hollow (Huntington): Just outside Burlington, Sleepy Hollow has a dedicated clientele that’s out skiing the 2.5 km snowmaking loop as soon as it opens. Lights on this loop keep Sleepy Hollow open Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, dusk to 8:30 p.m. Trails are groomed with an electric Prinoth — unique in the Nordic world. If you’re up for a mid-week community and race experience, join in on the Wednesday Night World’s race series followed by a potluck. According to local cyclist and skier, Jake Hollenbach, it’s the best thing in his life.

Central Vermont

Rikert Outdoor Center (Ripton): Home to Middlebury College’s ski team, which competes at the NCAA Division 1 level, Rikerts makes snow on the field outside the Nordic center and often gets loops open early season. They are also able to refresh trails after winter rains. But go early as the loop can get crowded with youth and college racers.
Woodstock Nordic Center (Woodstock): With a new fan gun, the Woodstock Nordic Center is hoping to keep people skiing on a meadow loop through winter’s warm spells. Woodstock’s groomer is also famous for farming trailside snow to boost the snowpack on the groomed trails.
Mountain Top Resort (Chittenden): High above Rutland, Mountain Top makes snow on a 2-km oval-shaped loop. It’s gently uphill on one side of the loop, gently down on the other. Round and round …

Southern Vermont

Prospect Mountain (Woodford): With the highest nordic base lodge in Vermont (“2250 feet of fun,” says their website), Prospect used to be the place to find early season snow in Vermont. But given fickle winters, the community non-profit that owns Prospect now covers 2km of trails with snowmaking. Those 2k are relatively flat, making it a good place to get your skinny skis back under you in early winter.

We really do love Craftsbury — aside from nominating it for every category we listed here, we also have an awesome Quench'd post featuring a lifelong Craftsbury skier and coach, you can read Callie Young's article here: Quench'd: Where Olympians and Elementary Schoolers Train Together.

Which trails are closest to you? Check out this map and see where you can go skiing!

1 Response

Melissa crossman

January 03, 2025

Great article! You really captured the Vermont xc world in a nutshell ! I’m inspired to go touring this weekend!

The Best of Cross Country Skiing in Vermont The Best of Cross Country Skiing in Vermont