4 Best Ski Resorts in Massachusetts, 2024/25
Massachusetts might not have the largest ski resorts, but its northern location and modern snowmaking ensure great conditions at budget-friendly prices. These family-friendly ski resorts are perfect for a quick winter getaway from Boston, Albany or Hartford, offering affordable lift tickets, ski schools and beginner-friendly terrain. Whether you’re a first-time skier looking for gentle slopes, or an experienced rider wanting a budget-friendly alternative to Vermont, these resorts deliver excellent value. Here are our top 4 picks for skiing in Massachusetts!
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Known for
A family-friendly ski area with night skiing and well-groomed trails, located just over an hour from Boston.
Highlights
27 trails with a mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain.
Affordable lift tickets and excellent snow coverage, thanks to a state-of-the-art snowmaking system.
Night skiing on 18 trails, making it one of the best night skiing spots in Massachusetts.
Eight lifts, including two high-speed quads, to reduce wait times.
Crowds are common on weekends, so weekday visits offer shorter lift lines.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 5 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) - 25 miles (45 minutes)
Logan International Airport (BOS) - 60 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)
Bradley International Airport (BDL) - 85 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
Why Ski Wachusett Mountain
With 27 trails spanning 110 skiable acres, Wachusett Mountain is a top family-friendly ski resort near Boston, offering varied terrain. 100% snowmaking coverage and an average of 100 inches of snowfall per year ensure prime conditions all winter long. Families will love Wachusett’s engaging events, such as magician performances and “Science on the Slopes”, plus night skiing on 18 trails. Scenic views of Wachusett Lake enhance the experience, while eight lifts keep crowds moving. The base lodge features great dining options, including Bullock Lodge Cider House, famous for its freshly baked Belgian waffles and warm cider. Although there’s no slopeside lodging, Princeton (10 minutes away) and Westminster (15 minutes away) offer cozy inns and hotels.
2. Jiminy Peak
Known for
A top resort for learning to ski, featuring night skiing and family-friendly amenities.
Highlights
45 trails spanning 167 skiable acres, with 38% beginner, 49% intermediate and 13% advanced terrain.
A six-passenger high-speed lift, ensuring quick access to the slopes.
Night skiing on 25 trails, making it one of the best night skiing spots in Massachusetts.
Ski-in ski-out lodging at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort, plus nearby accommodations in Hancock and Pittsfield.
Excellent kids' programs and activities, perfect for families and first-time skiers.
A bit farther from Boston (~2.5-hour drive).
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 7 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 2 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Albany International Airport (ALB) - 35 miles (45 minutes)
Bradley International Airport (BDL) - 85 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)
Why Ski Jiminy Peak
A top-rated ski destination for families, Jiminy Peak offers 45 trails spanning 167 skiable acres, with 38% beginner, 49% intermediate and 13% advanced terrain. The KidsRule program provides full-day ski school (including meals) for children and teens 4 to 14, allowing parents to enjoy the slopes while kids learn in a fun, structured environment. Family fun continues off the slopes at the Fire and Funzone, where kids can roast s’mores by the fire pit or take a thrilling ride on the Mountain Coaster. With night skiing on nearly half of the trails, three terrain parks, and a variety of dining options—including Christiansen’s Tavern for après-ski, John Harvard’s Brew House for hearty meals and JJ’s Lodge for quick bites—Jiminy Peak has something for everyone. For ski-in ski-out convenience, stay at The Country Inn, or choose from nearby lodging options in Hancock and Pittsfield.
Known for
A family-friendly resort with great intermediate trails and a top-rated tubing park.
Highlights
22 trails covering 100 skiable acres, with 20% beginner, 60% intermediate and 20% advanced terrain.
A well-maintained terrain park featuring rails, jumps and freestyle elements for all skill levels.
An impressive tubing park with 8 lanes and a conveyor lift, perfect for families and non-skiers.
100% snowmaking coverage, ensuring consistent conditions all season long.
Great Barrington, 10 minutes away, offers hotels, inns and vacation rentals.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 8 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 18 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Bradley International Airport (BDL) - 50 miles (1 hour)
Albany International Airport (ALB) - 60 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)
Why Ski Ski Butternut
Priding itself on its affordability and family-friendly slopes, Butternut is located inland amongst a beautiful forest landscape. It’s a great resort for intermediate skiers with 60% of its 22 trails being cruisey blue runs, however there’s also a separate beginner area serviced by four magic carpets. Freestylers will love the two sizable terrain parks at the resort. The Twisted Terrain park has unique natural features such as log rides and rock jibs. Besides the great skiing, Butternut has one of the largest snow tubing parks in Massachusetts! With 11 lanes and a designated tubing carpet, you’ll want to spend all day there! On site there are some great dining options, but Great Barrington is just a 7-minute drive away for more restaurants and accommodation.
4. Blue Hills
Known for
The closest ski area to Boston, perfect for beginners and casual skiers looking for a quick day trip.
Highlights
16 trails spanning 60 skiable acres, with varied terrain.
Affordable ski and snowboard lessons for all ages, with group and private instruction available.
Night skiing on select trails from 3:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., great for evening and after-work sessions.
Located just 17 miles from Boston, with easy car access and public transportation options.
Great for first-time skiers, though advanced skiers may find the terrain limited.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 14 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 23 Mar 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) - 14 miles (30 minutes)
T. F. Green Airport (PVD) - 47 miles (1 hour)
Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) - 56 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)
Why Ski Blue Hills
Just 30 minutes from downtown Boston, Blue Hills is the most accessible ski area for city skiers. While small at 60 skiable acres, it features 16 trails, with exceptional varied terrain for all ski levels. A great resort for learning, Blue Hills offers a dedicated beginner area with three magic carpets and affordable ski lessons. Night skiing is available on 80% of terrain, running until 9:00 p.m., with discounted evening lift tickets available sporadically. Though more suited for a day trip, nearby towns like Canton, Dedham and Norwood offer charming restaurants and shopping. For those looking to stay overnight, hotels and inns can be found within a short drive. As one of the best ski resorts near Boston, Blue Hills is an excellent choice for beginner skiers and those looking for an easy, affordable ski day close to the city
