In 1980, New York played host to the Winter Olympic Games at Lake Placid and spectators across the globe saw what New Yorkers already knew, the Empire State has some of the finest ski resorts in the world. Whether your a beginner or semi-pro, there is nothing like skiing in New York State. If you have never skiied before, many of these resorts offer learn to ski packages.
Canandaigua
Bristol Mountain
5662 Route 64, Canandaigua
Located in the picturesque Bristol Hills, this resort is perfect for those just learning to ski. Bristol Mountain has a learn to ski or snowboard package that provide 8-hour rental, 8-hour lift ticket and 3 hours of lessons.
Swain
Swain Resort
2275 County Road 24, Swain
Swain is the perfect place to not just learn to ski but to get away from it all. Play all day and then get cozy in their mountain side lodge. Sign up for lessons or traverse their 35 trails.
Ellicottville
Holiday Valley
6557 Holiday Valley Rd, Ellicottville
This is probably the nicest ski resort in Western New York and has a sprawling campus consisting of multiple lodging accommodations, as well as several lodges to relax in. If the miles of groomed trails aren’t enough to keep you busy, the kid’s special “hidden” fort, 22 lined tubing hill, and Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster will definitely keep you and your family entertained.
North Creek
Gore Mountain Ski Resort
793 Peaceful Valley Road, North Creek
Enjoy 55 groomed trails with special family packages especially geared towards kids, such as kids under 19 skiing free. Spend a weekend learning to ski. Exclusive holiday weekend programs for families to enjoy.
Wilmington
Whiteface Mountain
5021 Route 86, Wilmington
From bunny hills to adaptive ski programs for the disabled, Whiteface Mountain has something that fits every individual. If skiing isn’t your thing, you can enjoy the other onsite activities such as the Bobsled Experience, Gondola Ride, Tour the various Olympic facilities, or take sledding to the extreme.
Patterson
Thunder Ridge Ski Area
137 Birch Hill Road, Patterson
Thunder Ridge has tons of special packages for people looking to escape to the white wildness and enjoy the fresh powder. This park is perfect for both beginners with bunny hills and challenging trail for those with more experience.
Malone
Titus Mountain
215 Johnson Road, Malone
Over 50 trails that vary in intensity from beginner to advanced. Classes for kids are available as well as individual coaching. Kids will love the Titus Teddy Learning Center as well as the Magic Carpet Chair lifts.
Schenectady
Maple Ski Ridge
2725 Mariaville Road, Schenectady
Maple Ski Resort is a great place for beginners with great classes and easier hills. The resort is a good choice for those looking for something a little more economic.
Cortland
Greek Peak Mountain resort
2000 NYS Rt. 392, Cortland
Great Peaks has