Looking for mountain thrills, scenic trails, and cozy après-ski vibes? Head to Killington! Nestled in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Killington is a year-round playground. From epic ski slopes to summer hikes, fall foliage, and lively lodges, this mountain town delivers outdoor adventure in every season.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Killington in winter (December–March) for skiing and snowboarding, or in autumn (late September–October) for stunning fall foliage. Summer is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and festivals.
How to Get There
- By Car: Killington is located on U.S. Route 4, about 2.5 hours from Boston and 4.5 hours from New York City.
- By Air: The closest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), about 1.5 hours away. Rutland Regional Airport (RUT) offers daily flights from Boston.
- By Bus: Seasonal shuttle services and buses run from major cities to the Killington area during ski season.
Top Attractions
⮕ Appalachian Trail Adventures
Hike scenic trails, explore breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains.
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Appalachian Trail Adventures (ATA) strives to be able to plan any activities that visitors to the Killington area may wish to do. The a la carte choices of things to do at the Appalachian Trail Adventures property are available from the Summit Inn or ATA.
These activities include cooking demonstrations, tennis lessons, yoga classes, nutrition consultations, personal training, mountain biking, golf lessons, clay shooting, horseback riding, and more. Some of these classes require at least two or three people, and some can’t be booked last minute. ATA also offers guiding services, excursions, and all inclusive vacations in addition to the on-site activities.
47 Weathervane Dr, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 888-855-8655, Map
⮕ Coolidge State Park
Camp in wooded surroundings, enjoy hiking and peaceful nature views.
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The Coolidge State Park is located just outside of Killington in Plymouth, Vermont. The campground at the park consists of 25 RV/tent sites and 36 lean-to sites along two camping loops, a group camping area, play area, nature center, picnic shelter, showers, and restrooms.
Along with the developed campground, the state park also features primitive camping areas, remote lean-tos, gold panning, and hiking trails. One popular activity in the winter in the Coolidge State Park is snowmobiling on the park’s extensive network of trails and roads. The remoteness of some of the land provides good opportunities for hunting as well.
Coolidge State Park, 855 Coolidge State Park Rd, Plymouth, VT 05056, Phone: 802-672-3612
⮕ Gifford Woods State Park
Walk along scenic trails, admire vibrant fall foliage and natural beauty.
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Located within Gifford Woods State Park is a campground that features 19 lean-to camping sites, 21 RV/tent sites, and four cabins along the two camping loops. Each loop also has cold and hot running water, a restroom, and coin-operated showers.
Ice and firewood are available for purchase, and there is a play area and picnic area near the ranger’s quarters. One popular activities in addition to camping at Gifford Woods State Park is day hiking. A section of the famous Appalachian Trail crosses through the park. The Gifford Woods Natural Area is home to a protected northern hardwood forest.
Gifford Woods State Park, 34 Gifford Woods Rd, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 802-775-5354
⮕ Killington Ski Area
Ski thrilling slopes, enjoy winter adventures with stunning mountain views.
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The Snowshed Adventure Center at the Killington Ski Area offers a range of fun, from easy to big thrills, providing something for every guest. Tickets are required for riders, but otherwise, the center is open to all visitors. Some attractions include a bocce ball court and a children’s playground.
The hiking trail J takes visitors from the unloading area of the K-1 Express Gondola to the summit of Killington Mountain, where they can find fantastic views of the surround area. The Snowshed Food Court serves local and fresh lunch options, and the Snowshed Umbrella Bar offers specialty cocktails and cold beer.
Killington Ski Area, 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 802-422-3333
For a Quick Treat
⮕ Liquid Art Coffeehouse
Savor handcrafted coffee, enjoy local art in a cozy atmosphere.
© Liquid Art Coffeehouse
The Liquid Art Coffeehouse is both a coffee shop and art gallery in a blue building that’s easy to spot. The shop is family-owned and operated, opened by the Sarandreas in 2010. Liquid Art provides healthy, fresh, innovate food options, creative signature cocktails, specialty coffee, microbrews, fine wines, and various local works of art all under one roof.
The couple who run the Liquid Art Coffeehouse aim to provide all customers with a warm ambiance, high quality products, and outstanding customer service. The Lite Bite menu features daily specials and several vegetarian options for all meals of the day.
Liquid Art Coffeehouse
, 37 Miller Brook Rd, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 802-422-2787
⮕ Mad Hatter's Scoops
Indulge in creamy ice cream, enjoy fun, family-friendly treats.
© Mad Hatter's Scoops
Mad Hatter's Scoops in Killington, Vermont serves a variety of specialty sundaes, many different ice cream flavors in just scoops or cones, ice cream floats, and more. On Friday and Saturday nights Mad Hatter’s Scoops host movie nights on the Mad Hatter’s Green. The many Specialty Sundaes include options such as The Double Maple, The S’mores Sundae, The Salty-Sweet Treat, Brownie Sundae, Cookie Sundae, and The Banana Split. Ice cream flavors that can be enjoyed include traditional flavors like Strawberry, Chocolate, Vanilla, Cookie Dough, and Mint Chocolate Chip, along with more unique ones like Vermont Maple Bacon and Coffee Chip.
Mad Hatter's Scoops, 40 Summit Path, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 802-422 3335
⮕ North Star Lodge and Resort
Relax in cozy accommodations, enjoy amenities perfect for a weekend getaway.
© North Star Lodge and Resort
The North Star Lodge and Resort is situated within the rolling hills of Vermont’s Green Mountains, offering a “home-away-from-home” atmosphere for guests. The lodge and resort provides rooms to fit the needs of nearly any traveler, including suites with kitchens.
North Star is conveniently with easy access to recreational activities, nightlife, and local dining. While Killington is known as a winter vacation destination, there is plenty to do in the summer around the resort. Visitors can spend time on the lake, go kayaking, fishing, biking, hiking, or visit the Adventure Center. Quechee Gorge, Billings Farm, and the Ben & Jerry’s Factory are also nearby.
North Star Lodge and Resort, 78 Weathervane Dr, Killington, VT 05751, Phone: 802-422-4040
More Places to Stay
- Killington Grand Resort Hotel – Ski-in/ski-out resort with slope views, heated outdoor pool, and on-site spa.
- Mountain Inn – Boutique hotel with a craft distillery, cozy rooms, and a great après-ski vibe.
- Snowed Inn – Family-run inn offering rustic charm, fireplaces, and homemade breakfasts close to the slopes.
Where to Eat
- The Foundry at Summit Pond – Fine dining with Vermont flair, craft cocktails, and live music in a lodge-style setting.
- Choices Restaurant & Rotisserie – Local favorite for hearty entrees, daily specials, and a great wine list.
- Back Behind Restaurant & BBQ – Rustic joint serving smoked meats, burgers, and craft beers in a laid-back environment.
Local Events
- Killington World Cup (November) – Watch world-class alpine ski racing and enjoy festivities at the base lodge.
- Vermont Brewers Festival (Summer) – Celebrate craft beer with local brewers, food trucks, and mountain views.
- Killington Oktoberfest (October) – Bavarian fun with beer gardens, live music, games, and scenic chairlift rides.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Killington, Vermont
- Pico Mountain (5–10 min) – Ski quieter slopes, hike scenic trails, or enjoy family-friendly snow fun in winter.
- Rutland (20–25 min) – Visit art galleries, catch a show at the Paramount Theatre, or shop and dine in downtown Rutland.
- Woodstock (25–30 min) – Explore quaint shops, tour Billings Farm & Museum, or walk covered bridges and village green trails.
- Bridgewater (20–25 min) – Visit Long Trail Brewery, explore antique stores, or enjoy peaceful riverfront scenery.
- Mendon (10–15 min) – Hike in Aitken State Forest, dine at cozy inns, or enjoy scenic drives through forested backroads.
- Plymouth (25–30 min) – Tour President Calvin Coolidge’s birthplace, visit the historic village, or hike nearby trails.
- Chittenden (20–25 min) – Kayak Chittenden Reservoir, hike forest trails, or enjoy quiet mountain lake views and wildlife.
- Tyson (25–30 min) – Stroll charming countryside roads, fish in Echo Lake, or visit local farms and general stores.
FAQ
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What is Killington known for?
- Killington is home to the largest ski resort anywhere on the eastern side of the country.
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What activities can visitors enjoy in Killington besides skiing?
- There is much more to the area besides skiing and snowboarding. The town is a vacation destination offering attractions and activities to visitors no matter what season they are visiting.
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What outdoor activities are popular in Killington during the summer?
- Mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking are popular activities during the summer season.
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What makes Killington a winter sports destination?
- During winter, Killington is a snowboard and ski paradise. The Killington Ski Resort itself is home to 200 slopes, 90 miles of terrain, and 31 ski lifts.
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