Best Skiing and Snowboarding in Massachusetts

african american man holding skis in the snow

Are you looking for skiing in Massachusetts? Look no further! We’ve compiled the definitive list of the best ski areas, plus some of the best ski shops in Massachusetts. If you’re big into skiing and snowboarding, Mass is a great place. There’s enough snow in Massachusetts to delight even the biggest winter sports fanatic! Even better, there are several ski resorts nearby. No matter your skiing or snowboarding skill level, you’ll find a resort that fits you like a ski glove. So strap on your boots, give your goggles a last-second wipe-down, and keep on reading!

Getting Ready for the Season

Getting your gear ready for the ski and snowboarding season is essential for a smooth and enjoyable experience on the slopes. Here’s how to ensure your equipment is in top-notch condition for the winter adventure:

First, give your gear a thorough inspection. Check your skis or snowboard for any signs of damage, like cracks or dents. If you find any issues, it’s best to take them to a professional shop to be assessed. Next, clean your equipment. Remove any dirt, mud, or residue from the last season. This helps maintain the gear’s performance and ensures that you’re not carrying unwanted debris onto the mountain. Remember to clean your boots inside and out to ensure a comfortable fit.

After cleaning, it’s time to focus on maintenance. If you’re using skis, examine the edges for sharpness. Dull edges can affect your control of icy terrain. Give them a good sharpening if needed. Additionally, consider waxing your skis or snowboard. Waxing not only enhances glide but also protects the base from the elements. If you need help with this, many ski shops offer waxing services. Lastly, make sure your bindings are correctly adjusted. Your weight, height, and skiing ability all play a role in setting the proper binding tension. Incorrect settings can lead to accidents and injuries, so it’s wise to get this done by a professional if you’re uncertain. And remember, while this advice provides general information, anything related to safety and gear should always be directed toward professionals specializing in ski and snowboarding equipment. Now onto the best ski areas and ski shops in Massachusetts!

sign that says "it's time to ski" in the snow

Ski Area in Massachusetts: Mount Sunapee

Known for its lovely historic towns, Mount Sunapee ski resort has fantastic views. It’s also an excellent resort for intermediate skiers. The resort offers 66 trails. The towns around the mountain base are lovely and offer plenty of history and shopping. They also have some of Massachusetts’s best ski shops if you need new gear. It’s the cherry on top of a wonderful day of skiing in Massachusetts.

Ski Area in Massachusetts: Wachusett Mountain

While it’s a small area compared to some, Wachusett Mountain is still an excellent ski resort. They also have good snow coverage and updated their snowmaking system in the last few years. The resort is ideal for beginners and intermediate-level skiers and snowboarders. It’s incredibly scenic when you’re up on the mountain looking down! People like Wachusett Mountain best because of the weekend train from Boston. If you’re looking for a weekend of fun in the snow but you don’t want to drive, it’s perfect!

Ski Area in Massachusetts: Gunstock Mountain Resort

One of the best reasons to go to Gunstock Mountain Resort is that it’s not crowded! Even on the holidays and weekends, the crowds here are fewer, meaning you get more runs per day. They also have a fantastic snow tubing course, night skiing, and a snow coaster! And hey, if you’re an intermediate-level skier or snowboarder, you’re in luck! They’ve also partnered with local B&Bs to get you good deals on lodging. Less than 60 miles away from Boston, it’s a phenomenal resort for skiing in Massachusetts.

Ski Area in Massachusetts: Jiminy Peak

If you’re into night skiing and snowboarding, you’ll love Jiminy Peak! It has excellent skiing available across all of its terrain! Also, they offer three terrain parks to cater to all skiing and snowboarding levels. You won’t find super challenging runs here, it’s true. However, with nearly 45 trails, there’s something for almost everyone. If snowshoeing and tubing are your thing, Pats Peak offers plenty. Pittsfield, the largest city in the Berkshires, is only 20 minutes away. The dining and activities there are well worth the trip over. As far as winter sports go, it’s one of the best Ski areas in Massachusetts!

Jiminy Peak

37 Corey Rd. Hancock, MA 01237

Phone: (413) 738-5500

Ski Area in Massachusetts: Ski Butternut

With 22 trails and 11 ski lifts, Ski Butternut offers short lines! They do an outstanding job of grooming the mountain, giving you plenty of room to have fun! There’s also a fantastic tubing center with eight lanes for the kids to ride down the mountain! You’ll also find excellent massive group discounts. Bring the whole family or your staff and have a snow-filled blast!

Ski Butternut

380 State Rd. Great Barrington, MA 01230

Phone: (413) 528-2000

Ski Area in Massachusetts: Berkshire East Mountain Resort

Nestled in the heart of the Berkshires, Berkshire East Mountain Resort offers a range of skiing and snowboarding experiences for all levels. Known for its diverse terrain and stunning mountain views, this resort provides ample opportunities for adventure. With a focus on sustainability, it boasts being the first ski area in the world to generate electricity entirely from on-site wind turbines. From well-groomed trails to challenging glades, Berkshire East is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts seeking excitement and eco-consciousness.

Berkshire East Mountain Resort

66 Thunder Mountain Rd, Charlemont, MA 01339

Phone: (413) 339-6617

How To Store Your Winter Gear in Massachusetts

Many folks rent a storage unit to store their skiing and snowboarding gear in the off-season. If that’s you, you should definitely follow these steps to ensure your gear stays in great shape.

  • Clean and dry all of your gear very well before storing it.
  • Wax your skis or snowboard to keep moisture from causing problems. (Especially with metal parts.)
  • Hang clothing in a clothing box when possible. This will keep it all much fresher.
  • Lay skis and poles flat on the ground. It’s better for them structurally.
  • Store everything in a local Moove In Massachusetts storage unit. They’re affordable, safe, and clean!

Where To Store Your Gear

young woman skiing in the snow with sun shining

If there’s one downside to skiing and snowboarding, it’s storing all that gear. Snowboards, skis, poles, racks, and ski clothes indeed take up a lot of space. That goes double for medium and large families! The solution for many of them in Massachusetts is to rent a storage unit. That way, they can get in and out quickly when adventure awaits. Plus, their snowboarding and skiing gear will stay clean and safe. Another good thing about a storage unit in Massachusetts is that it’s affordable. You’ll have extra space in your home but also extra cash in your pocket to go skiing!

Have a wonderful winter season out on the slopes. There’s plenty of skiing in Massachusetts, so go out and have a cold blast!