It’s the Perfect Time for a Winter Weekend

Prior to this trip it had been far too long since I enjoyed a few days on a mountain.

My parents are summer vacation people, so typically we spent our getaways at the beach or a lake. But in the chilly winters in the Northeast, you have to take a flight south if you are seeking some warm sunshine. So the best kind of winter weekend trip is one where you embrace the cold, bundle up, and travel somewhere local!

So last President’s Day weekend we did just that and joined some friends for a snowy, cozy, and fun winter weekend in beautiful Killington, Vermont.

Getting There

Honestly, it was a very long car ride to get there from where we started in New Jersey, about 6 hours because of traffic. Flying into Burlington may be expensive, but if you are going for less than 4 days I would explore it! For us having a car there, especially one with 4 wheel drive, felt like the best plan.

We spent four days there which made it worth our travel time, so I would recommend going for a long weekend so you don’t feel as though you were in the car the whole time. Besides, between skiing, tubing, exploring the different mountains, and trying the various restaurants and bars there is a lot to do in a few short days!

Prepare for Cold

The freezing weather is a bit of a shock at first, but when you are on the mountain there is nothing that makes it more beautiful. Snow and ice cover every surface, creating what can only be described as a winter wonderland.

So bring many layers that can keep you comfortable no matter the activity - whether you are snowboarding down black diamond trails or just drinking with friends by the firepit.

Where to Stay

When you’re chilly in sub-zero temperatures, the greatest joy comes from warming up afterward with friends, wine, and comfort food. We were a large group so our friends found a rental home that was very close to the mountain, and comfortably fit all of us. The best part was cooking family-style dinners together at the house, playing games, and sitting by the cozy fireplace.

The house was really remote, tucked away in the woods with a long driveway. So we didn’t have to worry about playing music too loud for the neighbors! We took full advantage of the home’s amenities and even braved the elements to enjoy the outdoor jacuzzi.

There are a few hotels in the area like the Killington Grand Resort Hotel and the Mountain Lodge, as well as some B&B’s, but we were really happy with renting a house.

Restaurants, Bars, & Cafes

I was surprised by how many great places there are to go out, and drink + dine in Killington. But this trip made it clear that Killington is a destination area. There is no shortage of places to go that range from classy dining to kid-friendly spots. Here were a few that I tried or that are on my list for my next visit!

The Wobbly Barn - Iconic bar and nightclub with live music and dancing!
- We had SO MUCH FUN here, I would say this is a must!
The Foundry at Summit Pond - Nice steakhouse and restaurant on the water, great for groups!
Long Trail Brewery - Brewery with dining, great daytime activity if you are tired of skiing
Sunup Bakery - Delicious treats
Pickle Barrel - Another legendary bar with live music and performances
- Call the “barrel rider” for a free ride to get here safely!

Aprés Ski at Peak Bar

Because I was planning to run the marathon this year, I didn’t want to risk an injury so I sat out on skiing. The first day I was the only one of our friends who didn’t ski, but I went early with them and bought a gondola ticket to ride to the peak anyway! I had a lot of school work to do so I rode to the top of the mountain and set up shop with my computer at peak bar. I worked for a few hours, got some cozy food, and then hung out with my friends when they came inside to use the bathroom or warm up a bit.

Even though I wasn’t skiing or snowboarding, I had an amazing time enjoying the views from the Mt. Killington Peak Bar on top of the mountain. Finishing my work on the first day was also the best because I got the rest of the weekend to relax and enjoy being there - and after 7 weeks with no days off, I was very ready for some SUMMIT DRINKS. This is a term I made up myself for when you are having alcohol at high altitudes, where there is less oxygen, so scientifically it should affect you more. Someone should fact check me but I’ll tell ya, one glass and I was flying high!

On the second day Ryan and I both sat out, so we slept in and then walked to the mountain from the house! There is still a lot to do for those who aren’t skiing such as taking a mountain tour, riding a sleigh, tubing, and snowshoeing. But we chose to try all the bars at the base of the mountain, and get some snacks from the waffle cabin.

For those going down the mountain, I recommend stopping at the jerk chicken spot! Everyone raved about it.

I spent a lot of time indoors, but I did brave the cold for the mountain views! Think you can probably tell from the following photos, but it was so much fun.

Best Seats in the House

Each day we got to the peak bar early and held some of the seats for our large crew to sit together after their runs. I couldn’t get over the amazing views from the top of the mountain.

All in all my first weekend in Vermont was a great one! I can’t wait to go back again someday soon.

Xx Gab

Killington, Vermont