The United States of America – a skier’s dream! When it comes to choosing the perfect time to hit the slopes on a school ski trip, we find that most teachers approach us with February Half Term in mind. We understand why…it’s in the peak of the season and snow conditions will be better, right? Well, yes, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get epic snow conditions and so many other benefits too if you opt for Easter instead. We’ve got some amazing resorts in Europe, but for now we’re going to talk about the options to ski in the USA at Easter.
Why you should ski in the USA at Easter!
Let’s start with the why! Quieter pistes, more hours of daylight and it’s a bit warmer than skiing at Christmas or February Half Term. And when it comes to ensuring good snow conditions, we have a selection of resorts that we think are perfect at Easter. Mainly thanks to their high altitude, making for great snow conditions even at this later point of the season.
Plus, looking for something to make the trip extra special? Then you could include a city stopover in somewhere like New York or Boston en route to the slopes. And doing this at Easter means it’ll be warmer, as anyone who has been to New York in winter will know, it can be pretty cold!
So, let’s get down to the ‘where’…
Where to ski in the USA at Easter
Let’s start with Sugarloaf! It’s the largest ski area in New England, with over acres of terrain to explore. 23% is perfect for beginners and 61% for intermediates, making it great for groups with skiers looking for progression throughout their stay. And don’t worry, as the 16% of terrain that is best suited to more advanced skiers means there is plenty to satisfy their appetite for a challenge. The highest point is at 4,000ft and the Green Trails run from summit to base, so it’s a pretty snow sure resort, not to mention it’s northerly location, meaning it often welcomes skiers right through to May each year. And to be sure, over a third of the resort benefits from artificial coverage too! When it comes to spending time with your feet firmly on solid ground, Sugarloaf can offer a variety of après ski options perfect for school groups, and we have great relationships with some piste side accommodation options.
Next we’ve got two ski resorts in the area of New Hampshire. First up, Cannon! Located within the state-owned Franconia Notch State Park this well-developed area benefits from the profits of being state run. A smaller area than the previously mentioned Suagrloaf, with just under 300 acres of terrains, two thirds of which benefit from artificial coverage. The majority of the terrain is suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, but beginners shouldn’t worry as the purpose-built Tuckerbrook family area has everything you could need. With some great inns and lodges to accommodate school groups, and some amazing après activities, Cannon is a great choice for Easter school skiing.
Waterville, also in the New Hampshire ski area, is a compact ski area which is perfect for skiers looking for progression. 300 acres of terrain, 100% artificial coverage and the highest point at over 4000ft, what’s not to love about this resort for Easter skiing in the USA. Its got access to the same great array of après options and accommodation as it’s neighbour Cannon.
Of course, there are plenty of other options to consider for great Easter skiing in the USA, but we wanted to give you the low-down of the best resorts for Easter skiing in the USA for school groups.
And, what’s more… these resorts are a great option if your school is keen to keep their school ski trip in February Half Term!
Want to find out more about these resorts?
School Ski Trips to Sugarloaf, USA
If you’re after guaranteed snow, then set your sights on school ski Trips to Sugarloaf. Its northerly location means it stays well open into May…
School Ski Trips to Cannon, USA
School ski trips to Cannon within the Franconia Notch State Park, Cannon is state-owned and state-run, which means its profits are ploughed back into developing…
School Ski Trips to Waterville, USA
School ski trips to Waterville Valley welcomes you with open arms and legendary skiing. The slopes provide quick progression for beginners, with the superb ‘Valley…