If you fancy a break from skiing you can always check out the various activities available including miniature golf and a 24-foot climbing wall. There are a number of accommodations and dining options and the resort is also open in the summer.

Burke Mountain
Burke Mountain is situated in East Burke, Vermont and boasts 45 trails and glades on 250 acres of ski-able land. Usually the resort has around 250 inches of annual snowfall and its winter season starts in December and runs until April. There are three terrain parks including the new Dashney Mile Terrain Park, which features an intermediate level terrain with jumps, rails and fun zones.

Cochran's Ski Area
This resort is situated in Richmond, Vermont and is a small resort with just eight trails. It is mainly aimed for children and there are lessons available in December, January and February.

This is a non-profit organization which aims to teach kids how to ski and have a good time. It is great for locals, though there aren't really any amenities.

Jay Peak
Jay Peak is situated in Jay, Vermont and due to its unique location and geographical features gets twice as much annual snowfall than most other resorts. The 2,000 foot vertical, massive glade system is also a unique factor. There are several different parks within the resort which are suited for all abilities. If you want a break from skiing and you are interested in trying out other winter sports, you can choose from activities such as snowshoeing, Nordic racing and snowmobiling.

The resort also offers massages which really help you to relax, and if you don't want to take your children everywhere with you, there is a day care center available at an extra cost.

Mad River Glen Skiers Cooperative
This resort is situated in Waitsfield, Vermont and has some of the best terrain in New England. There is plenty of annual snowfall and the area's bowl-shape helps to hold the snow in. There are 2,037 feet of vertical drop and a lift takes you straight to the top with no run outs. The resort is home to the last diesel powered single chairlift in North America and also has three double lifts.) There are115 acres of un-crowded trails and 800 acres of boundary-boundary tree skiing. The lodging is quite good and there are plenty of places to eat as well as a small but nice selection of shops.

Online Resources for Vermont Snow Reports
Before booking a skiing trip, it is often important to check the snow reports as this can affect your skiing experience. Here are a couple of good sites for that purpose

• onthesnow.com/VT/skireport.html
• betterskireport.com/vt.shtml
• realconditions.com/

Overall Vermont is an excellent place to ski and it has some really good resorts with plenty to do for all the family. Some resorts are better than others and if you find one that you really like, it is worth buying a season pass. So, the next time you are trying to decide which Vermont ski areas would be the best to visit, break out the Vermont ski resort map¸ take a look at the Vermont ski resorts listed, and get started on your winter New England adventure!