NYC Escape: Spend the Weekend in Stratton, Vermont

Take a break from the busy city and explore a winter wonderland at Stratton Mountain in Vermont.

By: Meredith Rosenberg

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Photo By: Hubert Schriebl / Stratton Mountain Resort

Photo By: YogaBnB

Photo By: FrankvandenBergh

Photo By: Hubert Schriebl / Stratton Mountain Resort

Photo By: BeachcottagePhotography

Ski Getaway

Stratton Mountain Resort resides in the heart of the Green Mountains, and claims the tallest peak in Southern Vermont at 3,875 ft. The resort might be overshadowed by nearby Killington, yet it offers many of the same benefits without the difficult terrain. As an added bonus, the self-contained ski village means you don’t have to leave the mountain — unless you really want to.

Where to Ski

Stratton offers 97 trails across almost 700 acres of skiable terrain, with the longest trail measuring three miles. Many trails are geared toward beginners (there’s even a magic carpet for novices), however, double black diamond trails exist for the advanced set. In fact, free guided tours of the mountain are available to those who are intermediate and advanced.

A gondola and 11 lifts help keep crowds moving, while snow machines supplement lighter snow fall days. Stratton also offers private and group lessons for all ages and all levels, and even holds multi-day, women-only ski and snowboard camps.

Other Snow Adventures

The ski- and snowboard-averse can beeline to the Sun Bowl Activity Center for cross-country skiing, nighttime snowshoe hikes or even dog sledding. There’s also a snow tube park complete with four lanes, lift service and a fire pit. Other resort activities include ice skating, yoga, and a fitness center with a saltwater pool, hot tub and sauna.

Best Shopping

When you've had your fill of wintry activities, Stratton Village offers more than 10 ski shops to choose from, including fashion-forward Lole. The Boot Lab will help you find properly fitting boots, or even adjust your current ones. Skiers and non-skiers alike can seek refuge at the Day Spa at Stratton Village, which provides everything from facials to hot stone massages.

Where to Drink

Nightlife on the mountain is low-key and centers around Grizzly’s bar, which hosts live music as part of its Winter Concert Series.

Where to Stay

There are dozens of options, both onsite and offsite, including lodges, condos and home rentals. Black Bear Lodge is a good family-friendly option, since kids under 12 can ski and stay for free. Long Trail House is an affordable condo option near the slopes featuring gas fireplaces, a pool and sauna on the property. Splurge on Founders Lodge (pictured) or Hearthstone, condo properties about a 10-minute walk from the lifts in The Village Commons section. Besides proximity to the ice skating rink, both offer heated parking, saunas and fireplaces; Founders also comes equipped with an in-condo washer and dryer.

Outside the Slopes

Technically offsite, though conveniently located just a short walk to the gondola, YogaBnB (pictured) is both comfortable and affordable. As the name implies, yoga classes are included in the room rate and are held three times a week in an airy, wood-paneled yoga studio. Breakfast is also part of your stay. Stone Boat Farm Bed and Breakfast is another convenient option less than a 10-minute ride away. The charming property resides on 40 acres and is home to three alpacas. Its five rooms overlook a babbling brook, and every morning a full, hot breakfast spread awaits you in a separate dining cottage.

Where to Eat

Stratton Mountain offers upwards of 20 dining options, from pizza to sushi, and many incorporate locally sourced ingredients where possible. For example, Vermont Grilled Cheese makes sandwiches with cheese from local Cabot Creamery. For other quick bite options, Stratton Mountain Deli serves up breakfast egg sandwiches, burritos and hot chocolate. It also offers a small grocery section, and is a good spot to pick up souvenirs such as Vermont maple syrup. Fire Tower Restaurant & Tavern is a popular spot for casual fare, with a small menu featuring tempura-style shrimp and margherita flatbread. It also provides a strong selection of local craft beers. For upscale dining, Verde Restaurant earns high marks for its mussels and homemade breads.

If you have a car, off-mountain options abound a half-hour away in Manchester and surrounding towns. The Silver Fork excels at New American; its dining room is small, so reservations are a must. Adventurous foodies should try The Perfect Wife Restaurant and Tavern. It describes its approach as freestyle, and has been experimenting with a new menu every weekend. For a romantic meal, The Chantecleer Restaurant specializes in seafood and French fare.

When to Go

While Stratton is a ski resort first and foremost, it also offers year-round activities. Warm weather fun includes, but isn’t limited to, hiking, biking, kayaking, tennis and golf.

Getting There

It takes about four hours from NYC without traffic. The Stratton Jitney is a great option for those without a car and leaves from Manhattan.

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New York City

NYC Escape: Spend the Weekend in Stratton, Vermont

Shop This Look

Ski Getaway

Where to Ski

Other Snow Adventures

Best Shopping

Where to Drink

Where to Stay

Outside the Slopes

Where to Eat

When to Go

Getting There

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