Burke Mountain Ski Resort

Burke Mountain ski resort, nestled in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, offers a charming escape for winter sports enthusiasts. This resort spans 178 acres, featuring 55 trails and 4 lifts, and a vertical drop of 2,011 feet. Burke Mountain is a favorite for skiers and snowboarders looking for a mix of well-groomed terrain and challenging slopes. The resort is divided into two areas: the lower mountain, which is ideal for beginners, and the upper mountain, which offers steeper and more advanced runs.

What makes Burke Mountain stand out is its commitment to preserving a more authentic, natural ski experience without the commercial frills seen at larger resorts. This is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of Vermont’s landscapes, with trails winding through scenic woodlands and offering spectacular views. Whether you’re a beginner learning the ropes or an expert chasing powder, Burke Mountain provides a diverse range of experiences for all levels of skiers.

Getting to Burke Mountain ski resort is relatively easy, with multiple options available for travelers. The closest major airport is Burlington International Airport, about a 90-minute drive from the resort. For those flying in from further afield, Montreal's Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport is also an option, roughly two hours away. There are shuttle services from nearby towns and lodging areas that provide easy access to the slopes. If you’re driving, Burke Mountain is conveniently located off Interstate 91, making it an accessible destination for visitors from major cities like Boston, which is about a 3-hour drive away.

Burke Mountain offers a variety of terrain that caters to skiers of all abilities. The lower mountain is great for beginners and families, with wide, gentle slopes perfect for learning or building confidence. The Sherburne Express lift services this area, providing easy access to beginner trails like “Dashney Mile” and “Lower Warren’s Way.” For intermediate skiers, the upper mountain provides more challenging blue and black diamond trails, such as “Fox’s Folly” and “Bear Den,” accessible via the Mid Burke Express lift.

Advanced skiers and experts will find plenty of thrills on the steep, ungroomed trails like “East Bowl” and the popular “Wilderness,” offering a backcountry feel with narrow, winding runs through the trees. Burke Mountain also features terrain parks with jumps and rails for those who enjoy freestyle skiing and snowboarding. Families looking for a balanced experience can stick to the lower slopes for easy cruising and then explore the upper mountain for a bit more excitement.

For the best powder day experience at Burke Mountain, head to the upper mountain early in the morning. Trails like “East Bowl” tend to hold fresh snow and provide a thrilling, less-tracked run. If you’re in search of après-ski activities, the Bear Den Lounge, located at the base lodge, offers a relaxed atmosphere with local brews and live music on weekends. For a more local vibe, venture into nearby East Burke Village to find laid-back eateries and pubs where you can swap stories with fellow skiers and locals alike.