What is Killington known for? Are there fun things to do in Killington, Vermont? Read on as we unravel everything that the city has to offer.
Are you considering taking some time off and unwinding in a peaceful and remote location? One of the best places east of the US to do just that is Killington, Vermont. This small town is best known as a skiing paradise and has numerous things to do all year.
In the winter, you can hit the slopes at Killington Mountain Resort, one of New England’s largest ski mountains. The resort features over 150 trails and 20 lifts, making it a great place for both beginner and experienced skiers. If you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, you can still enjoy the snow by going snow tubing, ice skating, or cross-country skiing.
When the weather warms up, Killington comes alive with hiking trails, mountain biking, golf courses, and much more. You can also go fishing in any of the many rivers or lakes in the area. Or take a scenic drive to see some beautiful fall foliage.
This list details the best things to do in Killington, Vermont, for the whole family. Get ready to spend time in the great outdoors. But before you do, ensure that you have a valid travel insurance cover – don’t let anything limit the fun.
The Killington Grand Resort Hotel is the perfect place to stay while enjoying all that Vermont has to offer. The resort offers an outdoor pool, spa and wellness centre, and free Wi-Fi, making it the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. The accommodations are top-notch, with a TV, air conditioning, and DVD player in every room. Coffee lovers will appreciate the coffee machine in each room. The en suite bathrooms come complete with a hairdryer. When you're feeling energetic, take advantage of the fitness centre, games room, and ski storage.
Surrounded by stunning scenery, this lodge offer guests a chance to relax and recharge, while being only moments away from an endless variety of recreational activities. No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something to do in Killington! In the winter, take advantage of the nearby ski slopes or go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing right on the property. When the warmer weather arrives, enjoy fishing and boating on one of the many nearby lakes. The North Star Lodge is also conveniently located near a number of golf courses, restaurants and antique stores.
This hotel boasts a terrace with stunning views of the mountains, perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Inside, the lodge offers a cozy and chic atmosphere, with all rooms featuring air conditioning and flat-screen TVs. The hotel also has an indoor pool, a bar, and a shared lounge area - perfect for socializing with other guests. In the morning, start your day off right with a continental breakfast before heading out to explore all that Killington has to offer. Guests can enjoy hiking and skiing in the surrounding area, or take advantage of the hotel's business center facilities.
TL;DR
- Most significant landmark – Killington Ski Resort
- Best park – Gifford Woods State Park
- Best free activity – Hiking at Thundering Brook Falls Trail
- Best activity for kids – Rides at the Killington Adventure Center
- Best activity for adults – Skiing at Killington Ski Resort
- Best food – Long Trail Brewing Company
- Best nightlife – Pickle Barrel Nightclub
- Best all-around accommodation – The Snowed Inn
Best Things to Do in Killington, VT
1. Kick Off at the Killington Resort
Address: 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
A visit to Killington, Vermont, can be quite a fun experience. And the best place to kick off your adventure in this lovely town is the Killington Mountain Resort & Ski Area. Here, you can experience the largest skiing areas east of the US.
At this resort, visitors have a great chance to experience great slopes and ski lifts. In fact, the ski resort has 22 ski lifts and 200 slopes. These attract thousands of visitors each year from the US and across the globe.
The resort offers some of the best things to do for the whole family, including kids. Plus, the slopes are available for everyone, including beginners and pro-skiers. Lessons are available for novice skiers.
In addition, there are also numerous hiking trails and expansive mountain terrain waiting just for you. So, no matter what interests you, you are bound to find it in Killington, Vermont.
Need a place to stay? Check out Killington Grand Resort Hotel for the best accommodation in town.
2. Kids will Love the K1 Express Gondola Ride
Address: Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
While spending time at the Killington Resort, take the kids on a gondola ride. The K1 Express Gondola ride is the best way to get to the top of Killington Peak in Vermont. And the whole experience proves to be such a thrilling ride for all.
The Gondola is an enclosed chairlift that’s always running all year. This means you can enjoy the amazing views from the Gondola in spring, summer, autumn, or winter. The entire ride to Killington Peak is 1.25 miles, but you can also go for shorter available rides.
On a clear day, the view on the Gondola is one to remember since it stretches over five states. Get to see as far as Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and more of Vermont from on high.
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3. Hike Towards Thundering Brook Falls Trail
Address: 2295 River Rd, Killington, VT 05751
Killington is the best place to be if you love walking and hiking. As such, add the amazing Brook Falls Trail to your list of the best things to do in Killington, Vermont. This is one of the best back trails out of Killington.
The good news is it only takes about 10 minutes to complete walking the 0.6km trail. So, the kids will love it when combined with other Killington tourist attractions in the area. Here, you can enjoy fantastic views, birding, and bonding during the hike.
Apart from kids, the trail is also excellent for dogs, but only when on a leash. During the hike, check out the well-maintained boardwalk that leads to Thundering Brook falls. The falls have many visitors, especially during summer and the weekends, but it’s worth a visit.
Plus, this trail connects you to the great Appalachian Trail. This gives you the option to hike further and enjoy a greater experience.
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4. Explore the Gifford Woods State Park
Address: 34 Gifford Woods, Killington, VT 05751
When listing the best things to do in Killington, Vermont, a visit to Gifford Woods State Park is worth it. The state park is located at the foot of Pico Peak and is a fun place for the whole family. Gifford Woods State Park covers 113 acres and is a protected northern hardwood forest.
This is the place to be for a memorable family vacation as it involves numerous outdoor activities. Folks flock to the state park for fishing, hiking, camping, and picnicking. A vast park area is forested, but there are access paths, some leading to a boat launch.
Hiking is one of the best things you can do in Killington, Vermont, and this park offers exactly that. It has numerous fantastic trails, like Sherburne Pass Trail, Gifford Woods Loop, and a stop by South Kent Pond via the Appalachian Trail.
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5. Enjoy Thrilling Rides at the Killington Adventure Center
Address: 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
The best thing to do with kids in Killington is to visit the Killington Adventure Center. This is the place for easy and thrilling rides for the whole family. The Killington Adventure Center welcomes tourists and locals, but you need tickets to enjoy the rides.
The center requires folks to purchase tickets online. You can opt for any of these two options:
- Single Ride Tickets: this allows access to only one ride in the center. You can buy one ticket or a pack of 4 transferable to friends and family.
- Unlimited 1-Day Passes: Holders of this unlimited pass can ride as many rides for one day. This includes the Beast Mountain Coaster and K1 Gondola.
Check the official website for more information about the different rides. The Beast Mountain Coaster remains one of the adventure park’s biggest attractions. There are also many other rides for kids, family, friends, and adventure seekers.
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6. Hike Killington Mountain
Address: 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
Are you looking for more adventure after skiing at the Killington Resort? How about hiking up Killington Mountain?
Killington Mountain has incredibly challenging trails that you’ll undoubtedly love if you’re a keen hiker or mountaineer. It is a perfect place for experienced mountaineers to get their adrenaline pumping.
The trails to the mountain’s peak cover a distance of 9.3 miles. Therefore, get ready to spend about five and a half hours hiking up the mountain.
The truth is many visitors love attempting to cover the entire distance, especially during the warmer summer months. Even then the trails don’t really get crowded, which is another great thing about this place. As such, you can spend some quiet time taking in the views even during peak popularity.
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7. Mountain Biking at the Killington Bike Park
Address: 4264-4448 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
Add a tour of the Killington Bike Park to your list of things to do in Killington, Vermont. This is the perfect place to spend time in the great outdoors, mountain biking. The Killington Bike Park is part of the Killington Ski Resort and another fun activity to enjoy here.
The bike park has different trails ranging from rooty and double blacks to fast and insanely rocky areas. Check out the lifts at the bike park that lead to beginner-friendly paths if you prefer a gentler experience.
Tickets to the bike park vary from 1-day, 2-day to 3-day passes. The park requires advance purchase of tickets, and options are available for kids under 18.
The 3 Killington Bike Park lifts are Killington Peak, Snowshed Lift, and Ramshead Lift. And there is also a mountain bike shop with rentals available at the premise.
So, whether you are looking for downhill mountain bikes or cross-country bikes, you can get one here. Plus, a team of mechanics is always ready to assist with repairs and rent out high-end mountain bikes.
8. Golf in the Mountains at the Green Mountain Golf Course
Address: 476 Barrows Towne Rd, Killington, VT 05751
Have you ever wanted to golf in the mountains surrounded by the most magnificent landscape? Ensure you set aside time to play golf at the Green Mountain Golf Course. This is a must-visit place for folks looking for things to do in Killington, Vermont.
Residents and visitors to Killington enjoy this spectacular 18-hole course set in the Green Mountains. The magical space offers privacy and serenity while enjoying a game of golf with friends and family.
The Green Mountain Golf Course offers season passes that are available for purchase online. There’s also a pro shop at the golf course where you can replenish your supplies. The course also offers space for visitors and residents to host events.
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9. Enjoy the Night Scene at the Pickle Barrel Nightclub
Address: 1741 Killington Road, Killington, VT 05751
After putting the kids to bed, it’s time to check out the Killington, Vermont, nightlife. Among the best places to visit in Killington in the evening is the Pickle Barrel Nightclub. Folks get to step off the ski slopes and hiking trails and catch up while having a good time.
In what feels like the birthchild of a saloon and a nightclub, you can dance and drink with family and friends at this fantastic nightclub in Killington all night long! The Pickle Barrel Nightclub hosts live music, and you’ll certainly enjoy their delectable meals. It is the liveliest place to head to when touring this lovely town.
The really good news is the nightclub offers revelers a free shuttle service known as the Barrel Rider. Therefore, after enjoying your drinks, there’s no need to worry about how to get back to your accommodations! A designated driver is available to ensure you get to your destination safely!
10. Camp at the Coolidge State Park
Address: 855 Coolidge State Park Rd, Plymouth, VT 05056
Spending time at the different ski resorts is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Killington, Vermont. However, this is also a spectacular place to enjoy outdoor activities like camping. The campsites at this state park are well situated to give you the most dramatic views.
Coolidge State Park has been part of Vermont since the 1930s, when it was first created. Tourists and locals frequent the park for numerous activities, and many love to camp there for a few days. It’s the perfect place to indulge in outdoor activities while catching a glimpse of wild animals and birds.
The state park provides tent and RV sites for campers, and lean-to sites are available. Additional amenities include restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers with running water. The ground camping area consists of an expansive picnic space and a play area for the kids.
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11. Pico Mountain Ski Resort
Address: 73 Alpine Dr, Mendon, VT 05701
Yet another excellent place to visit while in Killington. Nearby Pico Mountain Ski Resort is the perfect place for beginner and intermediate skiers. It even has a ski school with some of the best instructors who make learning fun and easy.
In addition, the mountain offers a terrain park that’s great for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. This is where you can enjoy jumps, jibs, and other obstacles.
The Pico Mountain Ski Resort is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. If you want to enjoy great skiing without the crowds, then this is the place to be. This makes it ideal for those who want to avoid the lift lines.
12. Unwind at the Killington Grand Spa
Address: 4763 Killington Rd, Killington, VT 05751
Escape the chill of winter or the heat of summer and spend a day at the Killington Grand Spa. Nothing screams ‘vacation’ than spending time getting pampered and relaxing. So, once you book into Killington Mountain Resort, ensure you also find time to visit the spa.
Here, you’ll find some of the best treatments meant to relax and unwind your whole body. Book for some hot stone massage (winter time favorite), deep tissue massage, or black diamond sports massage.
The spa is open to the public from Friday to Sunday. Monday to Thursday requires calling in advance to book an appointment.
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13. Visit the Long Trail Brewing Company
Address: 5520 US Route 4, Bridgewater Corners, VT 05035-9600
A visit to the Long Trail Brewing Company in neighboring Bridgewater Corners is something you shouldn’t forget to add to your list. The brewery is a perfect chill spot since it has a beautiful restaurant serving mouthwatering dishes as well as its own beer. The inspiration for their dining and drinking spaces is the Hofbrau House in Munich, Germany.
Enjoy plenty of beer, delicious food, and spectacular views of the greater Vermont. This is a fantastic walk-in place that doesn’t require reservations. But you can always book a table on the official Long Trail Brewery & Pub website.
Thursdays are Live Music days. And if you’d love to have a taste of even sweeter, locally crafted Vermont beer, try this Brewery & Spirits Tour.
14. Shop at the Greenbrier Gift Shop
Address: 2057 Us-4, Killington, VT 05751
Take home some souvenirs that will remind you of a fantastic time in Killington, Vermont. The popular Greenbrier Gift Shop is the best place to find lots of trinkets and treasures.
If, for some reason, you can’t get to the physical shop, shop online and have stuff shipped. Carry home some fantastic jewelry, home décor items, branded bags, framed artwork, and many baby and children gifts.
FAQs
What is there to do in Killington apart from skiing?
As you plan your itinerary of things to do in Killington, Vermont, skiing in winter is one of the best experiences. However, you can also spend time hiking and camping in the different places listed above. Also, spend time playing golf, fishing, birding, relaxing at a spa, and enjoying rides at the Killington Adventure Center.
Why is Killington called “the beast?”
Ski lovers refer to Killington as the “Beast of the East,” because of the different mountains. This area features six mountains with numerous trails, ski-able acres, lifts, and drops. In fact, you can enjoy over 150 hiking trails and over 1500 ski-able acres – there’s something for everyone, even beginners.
Is the ski resort at Killington good for beginners?
Yes! The Killington Ski Resort is an excellent place for beginners who want to learn more about skiing. This resort even hosts special classes for folks who are yet to experience skiing. Check out the separate beginner-friendly slopes and moving carpets, perfect for novices who want to explore the mountain.
What is the easiest trail at Killington?
The trail leading to the Thundering Brooks Falls is perfect for a short walk or hike. This is the perfect place to take the kids when seeking free things to do in Killington, Vermont. A boardwalk leads to the falls, and dogs on leashes are permitted in the area.