Very Good!4 / 5Apr 20, 2020
Danielle D. advanced skier
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Learn more about Smugglers' Notch Resort
Pros
- Good variety of ski-in/ski-out condos
- Great value for money
- Laid-back, family-friendly vibe
Cons
- Unfortunately, it is quite far from New York City and Boston
Overall
One of the top ski resorts in Vermont, Smugglers' Notch has a well-earned reputation for its family-friendliness. Not only does it have one of the best ski schools on the East Coast, their lift ticket prices are relatively inexpensive considering its sizeable terrain spread across three mountains. With different family activities and events on offer every night, it's no wonder why this resort has become a favorite!
Best month to go
February
February is the best time to visit Smugglers' Notch Resort as there will be enough snowfall and it’s cold enough to retain the great conditions.
FLY TO
Burlington International Airport
DRIVE/SHUTTLE TO
Smuggler's Notch (1 hour)
Village East Community/Village West Community (Walk)
- Base of Morse Mountain
- Easy walk to Village Center amenities and dining
- Wide range of condos and townhouses
Highlands Hill Community (Walk)
- Located upper mountain on Morse Mountain in Morse Highlands area
- Close to Morse Highlands lift
- Far from Village Center, shuttle required
West Hill Community (Walk)
- Situated mid-way up Morse Mountain
- Limited amenities
- Walk or short shuttle to Village Center
North Hill Community (0.50 mi)
- Short walk to Smuggs Central
- Far from Village Center and slopes, shuttle required
- Newest Community at Smuggler's Notch
For beginners
Morse Mountain is for beginners. All the beginner runs are here plus there are only two intermediate and one advanced trail so there's little chance of more experienced skiers speeding past. There are a variety of greens here but our favorite would have to be the Magic Learning Trail; a gentle slope with the perfect mellow pitch so beginners won't lose control.
For intermediates
There's a wide range of blue runs on Madonna Mountain and Sterling Mountain. From wide groomers to glades and even steep windy trails, intermediates will have plenty to shred. Our top pick for intermediates is Upper Chilcoot from the summit of Madonna Mountain. The views from the top are impeccable and you can even enjoy them as you head down this thrilling run!
For experts
Madonna Mountain and Sterling Mountain serve up a variety of steeps, moguls, and glades for advanced skiers and snowboarders to enjoy along with their 6 terrain parks! Doc Dempsey's glades offer quite a challenge for those looking to ski and ride between trees while Upper FIS is another favorite of ours and is where you'll find stashes of powder!
Find freshies
The best spot to find freshies is in the glades on Madonna Mountain and Sterling Mountain. They don't get tracked out quickly after a storm making them an ideal place to ride! Just be warned that these trails don't usually open if snow is lacking.
Ditch the crowds
The Village Lift and Village area at the base of Morse Mountain tend to have the most crowds and often sees the longest lift queues. Intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboards can avoid the crowds by staying on Sterling Mountain or Madonna Mountain until they're ready to call it a day.
Non skiers
Non-skiers will find plenty to keep them entertained at Smugglers' Notch. There's everything from zip line canopy tours to snowmobiling tours and even arts and craft workshops. For those just wanting to relax, there are hot tubs, massages or yoga classes!
Families
Smugglers' Notch is a fantastic family-friendly resort with wide trails for the whole family to ski together on. At night, the resort also offers a range of family activities and events such as family karaoke, airboard family fun races, and character dance parties.
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Smugglers' Notch Resort Reviews
Danielle D. Fabulous!4.3 / 5Jan 05, 2020
EBEric B.
Smugg’s is a great family resort! We took our first family vacation to snowboard there last year and will be returning this year. The instructors were great with the kids. And the powder was great for the adults! Best East Coast trip ever!... Moreadvanced snowboarder
Fabulous!4.3 / 5Dec 02, 2019
Eddie L. expert skier
Very Good!4.2 / 5Sep 04, 2019
Eric G. expert skier
Average!3.3 / 5Jul 01, 2019
Ben M. advanced snowboarder
Good!3.8 / 5Jul 01, 2019
Mark W. expert skier
Good!3.7 / 5May 03, 2019
Keith S. expert skier
Fabulous!4.3 / 5May 11, 2018
Gregory D. advanced skier
Very Good!4 / 5May 02, 2018
Erik F. expert skier
Fabulous!4.3 / 5Apr 26, 2018
Michael F. advanced skier