Want to plan a ski trip this winter but don’t know where to go? Stratton Mountain, owned by the Altera company, is the best option for skiers of any level. In this guide, I have created an itinerary so that you can get the best skiing experience this winter. This guide will cover everything, from on to off the mountain.
In the snow-covered mountains of Vermont Stratton is one of the most famous resorts that people from Connecticut visit during the winter season. It caters to all skiing styles, from the terrain park to large groomers Stratton has it all. No matter the level of the skier everyone will feel comfortable and have the best experience possible. Stratton offers ninety-nine trails over six hundred and seventy acres of mountain.
To start the day I recommend that you arrive at 7:30 to get the best parking spot possible. In my opinion, this is near the main base lodge. This allows quick access to the welcome center for assistance with rentals or lift tickets. In rentals, Stratton offers quick and easy access to all types of high-quality skis, snowboards, and helmets. To avoid delays I do recommend that you book online.
To warm up for the day start with a lower level trail on the green level. My recommendation is Lower Wanderer. This will allow you to survey the conditions and the forgiving terrain allows for skiers of all levels.
After your acclimation now is the time to explore the mountain and the terrain offered. If you are an intermediate skier I recommend that you make your way to the trails of Black Bear, or Polar Bear. For advanced skiers head to the Sun Bowl face of the mountain and hit runs such as Kidderbrook and Big Ben. This area of the mountain also supports a high-speed lift which can lower lift lines and allow for more runs. If you are interested in terrain parks there are often ones on the runs Big Ben and East Byrneside for you to test your skills.
For lunch The Grizzlies found in the main lodge has all different types of food and drink for you to refuel and continue your day strong. If you are looking for a quick stop for a hot chocolate then I recommend the mid-mountain lodge. The ideal time to hit the lodge is around 11:30 so that you can beat the rush that happens at noon and get back onto the mountain faster.
The afternoon is the peak skiing hours of the day. This is when I would attempt the more difficult trails of the day after plenty of brushing the rust off. For the most advanced skiers visit Upper Standard and World Cup, two of Strattons steepest trails. For optimal life usage take the Gondola to the top of the mountain however at peak hours the line can be long so observe the other options such as the American Express six-person Chairlift located at the base lodge.
After you have finished your day of skiing Stratton Village is a beautiful place to spend the rest of your evening with plenty of activities. For the adults, there is live music and Girzzlys and for drinks. If you are looking for a more lowkey end to your day there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the village that can offer that.
Some final tips I have for you are to check the weather before planning your trip. You never want to show up to the mountain to find a grass slope. Weather and snow reports are listed on the Stratton Mountain website and can be easily accessed. On this website, you can also find information about trail openings and other interesting events that are taking place. As for safety make sure you are wearing proper clothing, jackets, ski pants, helmets, and gloves, and make sure you stay within the posted limits of the trails. This is to ensure you don’t ski yourself into an area that could be potentially dangerous to you or your group. For efficiency weekdays and non-holiday times have much lower crowds and can provide a much better skiing experience.
Overall Stratton is the best mountain for you and your family to plan a trip to this winter. It provides access to every kind of terrain as well as fun for members of your group of any level and ambition.
Visit the Stratton Mountain website for more up-to-date information about weather and conditions, linked below.
