The Catskill Mountains located in the southeastern part of New York is one of the most scenic destinations in the state, in just about two hours' drive from New York City. Being part of the Appalachian range, in the winter, the Catskills offer 89 mi (143 km) of ski slopes. There are six large ski resorts equipped with 33 ski lifts. The largest and most popular is Hunter Mountain. Belleayre is the highest, Windham is the most polished, and Plattekill Mountain is the most affordable.
When to go skiing in the Catskills
Skiing and snowboarding season in the Catskills usually runs from December through early April. However, the weather becomes spring-like already in mid-March, and the snow gets wet and mushy. January and February are the most reliable months in terms of snow.
How to get to the Catskills from NYC
The Catskills region can be easily reached from the city by car via Palisades Interstate Parkway North or Taconic State Parkway North and I-87. Another option is NY Trailways bus to Hunter, NY, that leaves from Port Authority in NYC. There are also several private operators, like NYC Snow Bus, which offers one-day ski trips and travel to Hunter and Windham Mountains with pick up spots in Downtown Brooklyn, Upper West Side, Times Square, and Union Square. The bus ride takes from 3 to 3.5 hours.
Best ski resorts
The premier ski getaway for New York City, Hunter Mountain boasts 34 mi (55 km) of diverse ski terrain. The summit of Hunter Mountain has an elevation of 4,040 ft (1,231 m). With four separate mountain faces and 67 trails, the resort can satisfy skiers and snowboarders of all levels. There are four freestyle areas and 13 chairlifts. The ski lifts operate from 8:30 am to 4 pm, while the base lodge opens at 6 am.
Windham Mountain is the second most popular ski resort in the Catskills. It's located just a 2.5-hour drive from New York City or an hour from Albany. The resort boasts 54 trails on two peaks, 11 chairlifts, and six terrain parks. About 97% of the ski terrain is covered by snowmaking machines ensuring the best surface conditions. Belleayre Mountain is a smaller resort with 50 trails and eight lifts while Platekill has just 38 trails, but offers the most affordable rates in the area.
Practical info
When does the skiing and snowboarding season take place in the Catskill Mountains?
Typically, the skiing and snowboarding season in the Catskill Mountains runs from December through early April. However, the quality of the snow starts to degrade and spring-like weather conditions surface in mid-March. For the best snow conditions, the most reliable time to visit is January to February. Show more
What are the transportation options available to reach the Catskill Mountains from New York City?
To reach the Catskill Mountains from New York City, you can drive via Palisades Interstate Parkway North or Taconic State Parkway North and I-87. You can also opt for the NY Trailways bus service, which departs from Port Authority in NYC and reaches Hunter, NY. Alternatively, private operators like NYC Snow Bus offer pickups at various locations. The bus journey can take up to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic. Show more
Which ski resort in the Catskill Mountains offers affordable ticket prices?
Plattekill Mountain is the most affordable ski resort in the Catskill Mountains. Complete with 38 trails and breathtaking scenery, it provides visitors with a skiing experience similar to the more prominent resorts like Hunter and Windham but with much lower prices. Ticket prices range from $40 to $65 for adults, and they offer affordable ski lessons, rentals and warm accommodations in a cozy lodge. Show more
What is the summit elevation of Hunter Mountain ski resort?
Hunter Mountain ski resort's summit elevation is 4,040 ft (1,231 m). The resort boasts four separate mountain faces and 67 trails catering to skiing enthusiasts of all levels. With 13 chairlifts, the ski resort is open from 8:30 am to 4 pm. Additionally, they have four freestyle areas for those who are interested in terrain parks. Show more
How much of the ski terrain is covered by snowmaking machines at Windham Mountain?
At Windham Mountain, around 97% of the ski terrain is covered by snowmaking machines. The resort invests substantially in snowmaking to ensure optimal surface conditions for skiing enthusiasts. Located just a 2.5-hour drive from New York City or an hour from Albany, the resort offers 54 trails on two peaks, eleven chairlifts, and six terrain parks for a delightful skiing and snowboarding experience. Show more
