Massachusetts Skiing: Top Spots to Shred!

Jiminy Peak, Hancock, MA

With slopes for all level skiers, Jiminy Peak in Hancock is a self-contained little village within itself. In addition to challenging terrain for advanced skiers and snow boarders—and ample trails for beginner and intermediates—accommodations, shopping and dining are all on site. The high-speed Berkshire Express quickly transports six skiers at once to the top of the mountain where they can choose their trails. A total of nine lifts and 45 runs means there’s something for everyone here.

Blue Hills Ski Area, Canton, MA

Sixty acres of trails greet skiers at the Blue Hills Ski Area, including a terrain park and 12 trails. Lift options include a wonder carpet, magic carpet, a double chair lift and a handle tow. This is an excellent, affordable ski area for families, but has trails that can challenge even the most discerning skiers.

Wachusett Mountain, Princeton, MA

You’ll love skiing at Wachusett Mountain. Twenty-six trails and eight lifts await skiers of all levels on 110 pristine acres. Three high-speed quad chairs mean minimal waiting in line. In fact, they are noted for transporting more than 9,000 skiers to the top of the mountain every hour.

Berkshire East, Charlemont, MA

Located in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, Berkshire East is a family run ski area that embraces renewable energy. A new wind turbine produces all the resort’s electrical needs. Forty-five trails for skiers of all levels in a family-friendly environment make this the perfect spot to learn to ski or to take in some challenging runs.

Ski Butternut, Great Barrington, MA

Also located in the Berkshires, Ski Butternut is known as a very affordable ski area for families—even for those who don’t know how to ski or snowboard. In addition to lessons for both, there is a seven-lane snow tubing course for those who would rather take their snow fun lying or sitting down. Twenty-two trails on 110 acres means there’s plenty of room to spread out and have fun.

Bradford Ski Area, Haverhill, MA

Featuring nine lifts—including three triple chairs—Bradford Ski Area in Haverhill is perfect for skiers and snowboarders. Boasting some of the lowest prices in the state, night skiing and deals during school vacation week make it a great place for the whole family. The “Learn to Ski” program at Bradford has won several awards.

Otis Ridge, Otis, MA

Otis Ridge is an impeccable spot for all your skiing and snowboarding needs. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you hone your skills, regardless of your ability. Master the mountain confidently, whether new to the slopes or a seasoned pro.

Bousquet Mountain, Pittsfield, MA

While not recommended for expert skiers seeking challenging slopes, Bousquet Ski Area is the perfect spot for beginner through intermediate skiers, and caters primarily to families. Two-hundred acres are flanked by four lifts. There are 22 runs for varying levels—beginner through advanced. Lift tickets won’t make small families go broke like more advanced areas.

Ski Ward, Shrewsbury, MA

Featuring discount lift tickets when buying ahead of time online, Ski Ward in Shrewsbury is just minutes from Worcester, and features skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Forty-five acres are graced with nine trails and four lifts, including one triple chair, a T-bar and a carpet lift. Their Slopeside Bar and Grill offers food, beer, and wine for skiers and observers.

Nashoda Valley, Westford, MA

Olympic downhill skier Pam Fletcher learned how to ski at Nashoba Valley in Westford, and is now the marketing director for the ski area. Seventeen trails and nine lifts—as well as an onsite restaurant and bar—provide fun for all, even for those who prefer watching to partaking of skiing and snowboarding. Less than an hour outside of Boston, this is a favorite weekend ski area for city dwellers.

Key Insights at a Glance