The Berkshires offer outstanding skiing and snowboarding opportunities across five distinct mountains. Each resort brings its own charm and challenges to both new and skilled skiers. From family-friendly slopes to expert terrain, these mountains serve up excellent winter activities for everyone.
Planning Your Perfect Ski Day
When choosing your ski destination in the Berkshires, consider factors beyond just the slopes. Each resort offers unique amenities that can enhance your experience. Bousquet Mountain and Ski Butternut excel in teaching programs for newcomers. Jiminy Peak’s size and varied terrain make it perfect for groups with different skill levels. Catamount’s steep runs attract advanced skiers seeking thrills. Berkshire East’s commitment to sustainability adds an environmental aspect to your ski experience.
The winter season transforms these mountains into snow-covered playgrounds from late November through March or early April, with advanced snowmaking systems maintaining consistent conditions even when natural snow is scarce.
Bousquet Mountain – A Historic Treasure
Bousquet Mountain stands as a cornerstone of skiing tradition in Pittsfield. Since 1932, this mountain has welcomed skiers and snowboarders to its slopes. The resort features 24 trails and a terrain park, plus night skiing for those who want to hit the slopes after dark. They also offer tubing for extra family fun.
New owners have transformed the mountain with better snowmaking equipment, an updated lodge, and new lifts. Whether you’re learning to ski or bringing the whole family for a day of winter fun, Bousquet Mountain delivers an affordable experience.
Ski Butternut – Family-Friendly Excellence
Great Barrington’s Ski Butternut spans 100 acres of skiable terrain with 22 well-maintained trails. This mountain shines as a family destination, with 80% of its runs perfect for beginners and intermediate skiers. The 11 lifts keep crowds moving, and two terrain parks welcome snowboarders and freestyle skiers.
Strong snowmaking and grooming operations mean reliable conditions throughout the season. Beyond skiing, visitors can enjoy tubing or sign up for lessons with skilled instructors.
Jiminy Peak – Southern New England’s Largest Resort
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock ranks as southern New England’s largest ski and snowboard destination. The mountain boasts 45 trails and nine lifts, including a high-speed six-person chairlift that moves skiers up the mountain fast. What sets Jiminy Peak apart is its commitment to green energy – the resort powers its operations through an on-site wind turbine named “Zephyr.”
Skiers can choose from a range of trails matching their skill level, and extensive night skiing options extend the fun after sunset. The resort rounds out its offerings with slope-side lodging, dining spots, and a comprehensive ski school.
Catamount Mountain – Where Two States Meet
Catamount Mountain Resort creates a unique experience by spanning the Massachusetts-New York border. With 43 trails across 119 acres and a 1,000-foot vertical drop, the mountain presents varied terrain for all skill levels. Recent upgrades have made Catamount even more appealing, with new lifts and improved snowmaking systems.
The mountain pairs gentle learning slopes with some of the Northeast’s steepest runs, making it an excellent choice for mixed-skill groups or families looking to progress their abilities.
Berkshire East – Sustainable Skiing Excellence
Berkshire East Mountain Resort in Charlemont combines skiing excellence with environmental leadership. The resort’s 45 trails and 1,180-foot vertical drop create exciting opportunities for skiers of all abilities. As the world’s only ski area generating 100% of its power from on-site renewable sources through wind and solar, Berkshire East shows that great skiing can coexist with environmental responsibility.
The mountain excels in variety, offering everything from beginner runs to challenging expert trails, plus tree skiing for those seeking natural terrain. Strong racing programs and year-round activities make this resort a standout choice.
The Complete Winter Experience
Each of these Berkshire County ski areas brings something special to winter sports enthusiasts. Their mix of terrain, amenities, and character means skiers can find their perfect match or explore something new each weekend. Modern lifts, robust snowmaking, and updated facilities across these resorts ensure great conditions throughout the winter season. Whether you’re planning your first ski trip or looking for fresh challenges, the Berkshires offer outstanding options for every skier and snowboarder.
