Winter Wonderland: 6 Best Spots Outside of NYC to Ski & Snowboard

If you're anything like us, you probably have your ski or snowboard boots by the door, awaiting that first coating of fluffy powder of the winter season. 

Unfortunately, we've had the warmest Novembers and Decembers in recent years. Thankfully, we've hit a pretty massive cold spell, so there's a (slight) chance that we may have an actual winter. 

We're hoping for at least one big storm to pump out some snow so we can glide down some trails to our hearts content.

Regardless, these spots have been pumping out the white stuff even if Mother Nature hasn't been especially cooperative yet. 

So strap on those snowshoes and pack up the van, because these ski resorts are within driving distance of NYC for a killer day on the slopes. 


1. Mountain Creek (200 Route 94 - Vernon Township, NJ)

karenie Oh look at this~ snowww!


If you've grown up anywhere near New York, you've probably heard of this kickass spot just an hour and 15 minutes outside of the city. With 46 trails, 8 lifts, night skiing, snow tubing, and bars, it's a pretty sure bet you'll find something you like. 

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The slopes will finally open January 6th, so make sure you get out there while the powder is fresh. 


2. Hunter Mountain (64 Klein Ave - Hunter, NY)

frank_proscia Looking over the edge.


Want to get some almost immediate snow-sports gratification? Head two-and-a-half hours north to Hunter Mountain where they are pumping out snow for their 22 open trails. 

Looking to head out for a weekend? Hunter has some pretty incredible slopeside lodging where you can open your front door, snap on your skis, and start your day. 

College student? Head out to Hunter by Friday, January 8th, while you're still off from classes. With a valid college photo ID, you'll only spend $39 for your lift ticket. 


3. Windham Mountain Resort (19 Resort Drive - Windham, NY)

cyclesnack Makin' snow @windhammountain


With over 200 snow guns blasting (think massive fans that pump out a stream of snow), Windham has 16 trails currently open with more to come. It's only a two-and-a-half hour car ride from NYC, so call in sick and pack up the car! You definitely need a mental snow day after this holiday season.

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Let's hope that the snow starts up soon so Windham can open their "Big Air Bag," which is essentially just a mega-pillow of fun where skiers and snowboarders can hit (and commit to) a jump and land on a massive air bag. It's a recipe for an awesome time... or for disaster. Both seem fun. 

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4. Camelback Mountain Resort (301 Resort Drive - Tannersville, PA)

skicamelback Think Snow! ❄ ❄ ❄ #MyCamelback #ThinkSnow #SkiResort #ChairLift #WaitingOnWinter #Poconos #ComingSoon


Ever wonder where the biggest snowtubing park in the country was? Wonder no more, we have your answer. 

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Its only an hour-and-45-minute drive west to Pennsylvania. Camelback is also one of the top ski resorts in Pennsylvania, so it's certainly worth the trip over the border. 


5. Plattekill Mountain (469 Plattekill Road - Roxbury, NY)

plattekill_mtn Just thinking ahead a little bit ... #winteriscoming #plattekill #letitsnow #catskills


Don't have a car? No worries! Plattekill Mountain offers different packages for day-trips by bus to and from NYC on Saturdays. Whether your have equipment or are just starting out, these are excellent options for those of us without cars. 

Like the rest of the ski mountains around the NYC area, Plattekill will be making snow until Mother Nature wakes up to the brutal cold of wintertime-- which should be anytime now, right?!


6. Gore Mountain Ski Center (793 Peaceful Valley Road - North Creek, NY)

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Thank god for faux snow because Gore opened their Topridge portion of their mountain before we knew snow wasn't going to just happen on its own. Before the cold, 12 trails and 5 lifts were open between 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., but you can expect each one of their 109 trails to be flush with snow now.

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This spot is a bit further from home for us, with about a four-hour drive by car. But with the chance to save 35% on lift and lodging packages for three nights or more until January 14th, we'd say this is a deal you might want to cash in on. 

Check out 8 Ways to Survive the NYC Cold When You're Single

[Feature Image Courtesy Instagram] 

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