Hey East Coasters! The 2026 to 2027 ski and snowboard season is getting closer, which means it’s time to start planning your first trip to the mountain. From Vermont and New Hampshire down through Massachusetts, Maryland and North Carolina,, we’ve rounded up the expected opening dates for some of the top East Coast ski resorts so you can start planning your first turns of the season.
Getting ready for winter? From skis and snowboards to winter boots, helmets, outerwear, base layers and accessories, Sun & Ski Sports has the essentials you need for the season ahead. Need to freshen up last season’s equipment? Visit our ski and snowboard shop for repair and maintenance services before you hit the slopes.
Since Mother Nature can have plans of her own, always check the resort’s website before heading out to confirm opening dates, conditions and available terrain.
Table of Contents
- New Hampshire
- Vermont
- North Carolina
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
New Hampshire
Cranmore Snow Resort Opening Day – 11/27
Cranmore Mountain Resort is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Friday, November 27. Located just outside downtown North Conway in the White Mountains, Cranmore offers a convenient mountain escape with terrain for skiers and snowboarders of varying experience levels. Its location also makes it easy to pair a day on the slopes with a weekend exploring the shops, restaurants and scenery of North Conway.
Attitash Mountain Resort Opening Day – 11/25
The 2026 to 2027 season at Attitash Mountain Resort is scheduled to begin Wednesday, November 25. Located in Bartlett, New Hampshire, Attitash spans two mountain peaks with a mix of terrain for beginners, intermediate riders and experienced skiers and snowboarders. Its location in the White Mountains makes it a popular destination for a full weekend of winter adventure.
Bretton Woods Opening Day – 11/20
Bretton Woods is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Friday, November 20. As New Hampshire’s largest ski area, Bretton Woods offers more than 460 acres of skiable terrain and beautiful views of the Presidential Range. Known for its well groomed trails, the resort is a great choice for skiers and snowboarders looking for a classic New Hampshire mountain experience.
Vermont
Jay Peak Resort Opening Day – 11/27
Jay Peak Resort is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 winter season on Friday, November 27. Located near the Canadian border, Jay Peak is famous for its abundant snowfall, challenging terrain and classic Vermont mountain atmosphere. With terrain for a range of abilities, it’s a favorite destination for skiers and snowboarders looking for a big day on the mountain.
Killington Ski Resort Opening Day – 11/6
Killington Resort is expected to open for the 2026 to 2027 season in early November, as soon as temperatures allow for snowmaking.. Known as the “Beast of the East,” Killington offers more than 1,500 acres of skiable terrain spread across multiple peaks, with plenty of options for skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. Its early opening also makes it a popular destination for those eager to make their first turns of the season.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort Opening Day – 11/27
Smugglers’ Notch Resort is scheduled to open on Friday, November 27 for the 2026 to 2027 season. Set in Vermont’s northern Green Mountains, the resort is known for its three distinct mountains and wide variety of terrain. Families and experienced skiers alike can find plenty to enjoy, making Smugglers’ Notch a popular winter destination.
Stowe Ski Resort Opening Day – 11/27
The 2026 to 2027 season begins at Stowe Mountain Resort on Friday, November 20. With Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak offering a mix of terrain, Stowe has plenty to explore throughout the season. The resort’s iconic gondola, scenic mountain setting and nearby village add to the classic Vermont ski experience.
North Carolina
Sugar Mountain Opening Day – 11/11
Sugar Mountain Resort is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Friday, November 20. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sugar Mountain offers 20 trails and a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders. Its convenient location makes it a popular destination for a quick mountain getaway in North Carolina.
Cataloochee Opening Day – 11/20
Cataloochee Ski Area is scheduled to open on Friday, November 20. Located in Maggie Valley, the resort offers a mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain, making it a great option for groups with different experience levels. Its proximity to Asheville and the Great Smoky Mountains also makes Cataloochee an easy choice for a winter weekend trip.
Maryland
Wisp Resort Opening Day – 11/27
Wisp Resort is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Friday, November 27. Located in western Maryland near Deep Creek Lake, Wisp offers skiing and snowboarding across a variety of terrain. Its location makes it a convenient winter getaway for visitors from Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia and nearby areas.
Massachusetts
Wachusett Mountain Opening Day – 11/20
Wachusett Mountain is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Friday, November 20. Located about an hour from Boston, Wachusett is a convenient option for a quick ski or snowboard trip without heading too far from the city. With 27 trails and a 1,000 foot vertical drop, it offers terrain for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Blue Hills Ski Area Opening Day – 12/12
For Boston area skiers and snowboarders, Blue Hills Ski Area is scheduled to open for the 2026 to 2027 season on Saturday, December 12. Just outside the city, Blue Hills is an easy option for a quick day on the slopes and offers terrain for a range of abilities. It’s a great place to squeeze in a few runs without committing to a full weekend mountain trip.
East Coast Ski Resort Opening Dates FAQs
When does ski season start on the East Coast?
Most East Coast resorts open between early November and mid-December. The big Vermont and New Hampshire resorts with large snowmaking systems open first. Smaller hills near cities, like Blue Hills outside Boston, open closer to the holidays.
When does Killington open?
Killington hasn’t announced a 2026 to 2027 date. The resort opens as soon as temperatures let it make snow, which has been as early as late October in past seasons.
When does ski season start in Vermont?
Killington is first in most years. Stowe, Jay Peak and Smugglers’ Notch follow in mid to late November.
When do North Carolina ski resorts open?
Sugar Mountain and Cataloochee open in November once nights get cold enough for snowmaking. Cataloochee has been among the first resorts in the Southeast to open in recent seasons.
Can ski resort opening dates change?
Yes. A cold snap in early November can move opening day up, and a warm fall can push it back, since most East Coast resorts depend on snowmaking. Check the resort’s website or social media a few days before your trip.
Can I rent ski or snowboard gear for the whole season?
Sun & Ski Sports offers an Adult Seasonal Rental and a Junior Seasonal Lease if you want gear for the whole winter. Daily rentals are also available for single trips.
Gear Up for the East Coast Ski Season
The countdown to ski season is on, and we’re ready to hit the slopes. From your first turns of the season to a full winter of mountain adventures, Sun & Ski Sports has the gear, apparel and services to help you prepare. Shop online or visit an Outdoor Expert at one of our 30+ store locations for personalized help.
Shop skis, snowboards and winter essentials online or in store and start planning your next day on the mountain. Looking for opening dates in the West? Check out our Western U.S. Ski Resorts Opening Dates.
About the Author, Allie Cheney
Hello there :) Allie Cheney here! I'm a Texan turned mountain enthusiast with a twist. After a year of croissants and conjugations in France where I completed an MBA, I traded baguettes for mountain air and moved to Colorado. As a Copywriter and Content Creator for Sun & Ski Sports I'm thrilled to share my 6 years of outdoor industry knowledge with you! Living in a converted van, I'll be skiing along the Rocky Mountains and West Coast this winter. My aim is to deliver content that is not only accurate and genuine but also provides valuable knowledge and insights into your favorite hobbies, the latest trending styles, and cutting-edge products.
Let’s explore together! For questions feel free to email me at ACheney@sunandski.com or contact an Outdoor Expert at any Sun & Ski Sports store location near you!