Smugglers' Notch Resort
Vermont, United States
Snow reliability
Quick Facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Vermont
- Base altitude
- 383m
- Peak altitude
- 1,033m
- Total pistes
- 67 km
- Total lifts
- 8
- Season
- November 22 to April 12
- Ski pass
- local
- Nearest airport
- Burlington (BTV), 1h transfer
- Snow reliability
- 7/10
Plan Your Trip
The closest major airport is Burlington (BTV), with a ~1h transfer to the resort.
Prices are indicative. Book early for the best fares.
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Accommodation tier
Include in estimate
Estimated costs for 2 travelers, 7 nights, Mid-range · via Burlington (BTV)
Estimates based on typical United States market rates (pricing multiplier: 0.9x). Prices vary by travel dates, availability, and booking lead time. Always check current prices before booking.
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About Smugglers' Notch Resort
Smugglers' Notch Resort is consistently rated the best family ski resort in the eastern United States by travel publications and family travel awards, a three-mountain complex in northern Vermont that has built its entire brand and infrastructure around the specific needs of families with children — from the award-winning ski and ride school to the on-mountain childcare, terrain-based learning areas, and the village-centred resort design that keeps cars away from the base area. Its 67km of terrain across three interconnected peaks — Morse, Sterling, and Madonna — spans a genuine range from the country's best-designed learn-to-ski progression terrain to the double-black diamond glade skiing on Madonna that tests even expert skiers after heavy snowfall. The Notch's protected position in a dramatic mountain pass between the peaks creates a microclimate that consistently delivers more natural snow than the Vermont average, with the steep terrain on Sterling and Madonna holding powder considerably longer than exposed southern-facing slopes. For US families planning a ski holiday who want a resort designed specifically around their needs rather than one that accommodates families as an afterthought, Smugglers' Notch represents the gold standard of eastern US family skiing.
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Resort Ratings
Common Questions
Smugglers' Notch Resort: Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Smugglers' Notch Resort good for beginners?
- Smugglers' Notch Resort scores 9/10 for beginner suitability, with dedicated nursery slopes and a range of gentle runs suited to those learning. Progressive terrain is available for building confidence through the week. Ski school lessons are available through the resort and well-suited to first-time skiers. Groups with mixed abilities generally find Smugglers' Notch Resort accessible.
- When does Smugglers' Notch Resort open and close for the 2026/27 ski season?
- Smugglers' Notch Resort typically opens in November and runs through April, based on recent seasons. The 2026/27 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed by the resort. Exact dates vary year to year depending on snowfall and conditions. Check the resort's official website as the season approaches for confirmed dates.
- Which ski pass covers Smugglers' Notch Resort?
- Smugglers' Notch Resort is covered by the local. This pass may also include access to other linked resorts depending on which tier you purchase. Pricing and blackout dates vary by season; check the pass provider's official site for 2026/27 rates and the full list of included resorts.
- How do I get to Smugglers' Notch Resort?
- The nearest major airport to Smugglers' Notch Resort is Burlington (BTV). The transfer to the resort takes approximately 1 hour by road. Private transfers, shared shuttles, and rental cars are all available from the airport. Mountain roads can be affected by heavy snowfall in winter, so checking conditions before traveling is advisable.
United States
