Pico Mountain

The hot August temperatures in Vermont eventually give way to colder winter weather, and with those changes, the snow that the Pico Mountain ski area provides access to ski and ride. Opening on Thanksgiving day in 1937, the winter venue began operating the nation's first T-bar lift in 1940. Facilities have expanded off and on the snow, including hosting a Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum exhibit.

The ski resort sits within the New England region, meaning that it is close to several states and the Canadian province of Quebec. Interstate travelers can use I-87, I-89, and I-91 to get into the region before connecting to US Route 4. Air travelers can use the International Airport in Burlington or several smaller facilities, like the municipal airport in Lebanon.

From Thanksgiving Turkey to Major Resort

The Pico Mountain ski area opened on Thanksgiving Day in 1937, making it one of the earliest commercial ski venues in the state. Several on-mountain and off-site apres-ski facilities helped it grow into the winter resort that it is today. Several food courts and pubs replenish skiers and riders at the venue, and the surrounding communities host eateries. Lodging options include condos, homes, inns, and lodges in Killington and beyond.

Pico Sports is located in the base lodge, providing the necessities that guests may have forgotten. There is a fitness center with exercise equipment and a pool, and there is a child care center. Ski bums looking for something to do when they are not on their boards or skis at Pico Mountain can take a sleigh ride or enjoy a guided tour on a snowmobile.

Nordic skiing and snowshoeing are available through Killington Resort. The Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports non-profit hosts ski and snowboard clinics at Pico Mountain for all ability and skill levels. The winter venue also hosts lessons for first-timers, aspiring skiers/riders of all ages, and programs for youths or adults alike.

Lots to Work With

The Pico Mountain ski resort enjoys the colder winters of Vermont's humid continental climate. That climate generates an average annual snowfall of 250 inches. There are snowmaking capabilities on three-quarters of the terrain to supplement things between dumps. Skiers and snowboarders should bundle up in layers when visiting, as cold air from Canada can drop in and chill things out quickly.

The Pico Mountain venue has a base elevation of 2,000 feet, and the summit sits at 3,967 feet. There is a 1,967-foot vertical to work that will produce potentials for bombing and carving down the slopes. Guests here have 468 skiable acres to select from when choosing their adventure, with the terrain favoring those with some experience on one or two planks (46-percent of the runs have a rating of blue). Beginners will find 18-percent of the trails rating green, while the remaining 36-percent of Pico Mountain rates at a black diamond for advanced ski bums to enjoy.

The Pico Mountain ski area has just under 60 trails that stretch to 19 miles in length. Seven systems make up the lift system at the ski area and keep things moving.