When the sun dips below the horizon, the slopes of New England come alive with the glow of artificial lights illuminating the snowy terrain, inviting skiers and riders to enjoy the magic of nighttime skiing and riding. This season, regional mountains are offering a host of special events under the stars, featuring activities like skinning, lessons, discounted rentals, glow items, fire pits, live music, and more. From the heart of Massachusetts to the peaks of New Hampshire and Vermont, the moonlit fun awaits those seeking an unforgettable winter adventure.
Massachusetts
In the heart of Massachusetts, Blue Hills Ski Area in Canton beckons with night skiing until 9 p.m., offering lift tickets starting at $30. This season, the addition of tubing brings a new dimension to the nighttime experience at Blue Hills. Meanwhile, Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort in Hancock, known for its exceptional night skiing, lights up three terrain parks and 25 trails from 3 to 10 p.m. daily, with tickets starting at $59. Wachusett Mountain in Princeton offers College Nights every Sunday, providing discounts to students with college IDs, while also hosting night skiing daily until 9:30 p.m., with tickets starting at $52.
New Hampshire
Venturing into New Hampshire, Crotched Mountain in Bennington stands out with its signature Midnight Madness event, where skiers and riders can enjoy the slopes until midnight under the twinkling stars. With $10 rentals, glow items, drink specials, and a lively atmosphere, this event promises an unforgettable experience. Pats Peak Ski Area in Henniker hosts Saturday Night Under the Lights POP, featuring skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, rentals, and lesson tips from 4 to 10 p.m. on weekends. For a unique moonlit adventure, Waterville Valley offers “Skin the Moon” on March 14, allowing participants to ski uphill and enjoy live music and refreshments at the mountaintop eatery before skiing down.
Vermont
Finally, in the picturesque state of Vermont, Bolton Valley offers night skiing with a breathtaking view five nights a week, with tickets priced at $30.75 for skiing from 4 to 10 p.m. Middlebury Snowbowl, new to night skiing, provides beautifully illuminated trails and free carpet service in the beginner area. Smugglers’ Notch in Jeffersonville may not offer night skiing, but guests can enroll in Night School for Jibbing or Skiing & Snowboarding, offering lessons and practice sessions on Friday and Saturday evenings. Maine’s Black Mountain of Maine in Rumford presents Free Ski Nights on Wednesdays, while Pleasant Mountain offers “Monday Night Madness” for all ages. Sunday River in Newry lights up the slopes for Twilight Skiing on select evenings, providing access to lifts and trails for evening adventures.
As the winter season unfolds, the mountains of New England come alive in the darkness, offering a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of skiing and riding under the stars. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time visitor, these nighttime events promise unforgettable memories and endless fun in the snow. So bundle up, grab your gear, and get ready to carve your way through the moonlit mountains of New England.