Jennifer writes for Killington Rental Associates, sharing vacation planning tips, travel insights, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their time in Killington.
You don’t get nicknamed the “Beast of the East” without having some serious ski conditions to back it up. But everyone knows you can ski in Killington in winter—it’s the main reason people visit this time of year. What if you’re not a great skier or snowboarder, though? Or what if you only have a lift ticket for a few days? How are you going to fill your time in the snow off the slope?
Well, we’ve got the answers right here! Beyond the chair lift lines and slopeside hangouts, there’s a flurry (pun intended) of winter fun to enjoy. This is what to do in Killington, VT, in winter when you’re not shredding the mountain.
In This Article:
Things to Do in Killington, Vermont, in Winter Besides Skiing
When heading to a winter wonderland like Killington, regardless of whether you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, spending time romping through the powder is a must. Lucky for you, there are plenty of fun things to do in the snow that require little to no skills whatsoever. Here are our top recommendations:
Killington Snowmobile Tours
Combine the thrill of ATV off-roading with the rush of cold mountain air, and you’ll get one of the most popular things to do in Killington, Vermont, in winter. At Snowmobile Vermont, you’ll find multiple tours that range from one to two hours. Some are even geared toward kids, so if you have little ones who haven’t gotten their ski skills down pat, they can still hit the mountain.
The tour offerings range from groomed trails on Killington Mountain or Okemo to backcountry treks at Calvin Coolidge State Forest, so you can choose the ride that’s right for you.
Nordic Fun in Killington
Cross Country Skiing in Killington is at its best at Mountain Top Resort’s Nordic Center. We know we said this would be things to do other than skiing, but cross-country is in a league of its own. You don’t need to be a professional to try it. In fact, first-timers can often make pretty good headway on groomed trails.
If, however, you find the idea a bit daunting, there’s always snowshoeing—a peaceful way to get out in nature that will get your heart rate up without requiring too much effort.
You can purchase a day pass to the resort for $30 per adult and enjoy 60 miles of gorgeous, wooded trails. Plus, they offer rentals starting at $30 per adult per day, so you don’t need your own equipment. Kickoff an epic Killington snowshoeing or cross-country adventure when you visit this popular spot just 25 minutes from the resort.
Snow Tubing at Killington Resort
The Killington Tubing Park, on East Mountain Road, offers multiple lanes of family-friendly downhill fun. Race each other to the end until your heart’s content. Plus, thanks to the lift service, getting back to the top is a breeze and makes this winter activity popular for all ages. When you need a break from the cold, head to the Clubhouse and refuel with a quick bite and warm drink.
Killington Snow Tubing Quick Facts:
- Purchase tickets in advance
- Sessions are an hour long
- Adult tickets start at $29, and kids start at $24
- Hours: Friday: 3 PM – 6 PM | Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM | Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- See Special Dates and Times for current season
If paying for tubing isn’t on the agenda, you can get lucky with some old-school fun on Killington sledding hills. In a Facebook post, locals recommend Rutland Country Club and Toboggan Hill behind West Rutland School.
Killington Ice Skating Rinks
Winter adventures don’t have to revolve around snow. Killington offers several ice skating options, both in town and nearby. The nearest rink is Johnson Recreation Ice Rink. Opened in 2022, it offers a no-frills experience perfect for those who just want to skate. There are a few rentals available, but it’s best to bring your own equipment.
Other nearby spots offer more traditional NHL-sized rinks and have plenty of rentals on hand. Read all about them here: Awesome Ice Skating in Killington, VT This Winter.
Fat Bike Trails
For a one-of-a-kind winter experience, grab a fat-tire bike and hit the trails for some downhill thrills. A fat-bike is a mountain bike outfitted with extra-thick and wide tires that allow you to traverse snowy conditions without getting stuck. You can find some groomed trails that are maintained by the Vermont Mountain Biking Association (VMBA), or head to places like Gifford Woods State Park and Slate Valley Trails and explore on your own.
Find Top Fat Bike Trails here: Winter Mountain Biking Near Killington
Best Après in Killington
The après scene in Killington revolves around live music and tasty restaurants. Popular spots like Sushi Yoshi, the Pickle Barrell, and the Wobbly Barn are always full of revelers enjoying themselves after a day on the mountain. If nightclubs and sit-down restaurants aren’t your thing, Jax Food and Games keeps it casual with pub fare, arcade games, pool tables, and live entertainment, or you can go Euro-style at the Roaring Brook Umbrella Bar for mid-day fun right at the ski resort.
Regardless of what kind of après scene you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Killington this winter, and if you want the full breakdown, check this out: Best Food and Nightlife in Killington During Ski Season.
Relaxing Rentals for Your Winter Getaway
Finding a comfortable place to stay on your vacation is the most important piece of trip planning. Once you’ve secured your travel dates for your winter escape, it’s time to choose your home base. At Killington Rental Associates, we offer premium vacation rentals near Killington Resort and Pico Mountain winter activities, so you’re never far from the fun. Plan your upcoming stay with us and get the best rate on your rental when you book directly.
See All Killington Vacation Rentals
Featured Winter Rentals in Killington
Highridge Condo B14
2-Bedrooms/2.5-Bathrooms/Accommodates 6
Located at the base of Killington Mountain on East Mountain Road, just minutes from the base lodges, this popular condo offers a comfortable living area with a sleeper sofa, wood-burning fireplace, and balcony access with slope views, plus a dining space for six and a fully equipped kitchen.
The upper level includes a king bedroom, a queen guest bedroom, and a spa-style bathroom with a whirlpool tub and sauna. You’ll also have access to the Highridge Sports Center with an indoor pool, outdoor hot tub, fitness equipment, and more, along with perks like a winter shuttle, ski-home access when conditions allow.
Featured Amenities:
- Sauna
- Fireplace
- Ski-back access
Highridge Condo: B20
3-Bedrooms/3-Bathrooms/Accommodates 8
Highridge B20 is a spacious top-floor corner condo with two bedrooms, a loft, and three full baths, located at the base of Killington Mountain with excellent slope views and ski-home access. The open living area features a wood-burning fireplace, flat-screen TV, and queen sleeper sofa, along with a dining table that seats eight and a newly renovated, fully equipped kitchen.
Two king bedrooms are located on the main level, including one with an ensuite bath and double whirlpool tub, plus a full bath with washer and dryer. Upstairs, the loft adds extra sleeping space with a queen bed, private bath, and sauna—making this a comfortable option for families or groups looking to stay close to the mountain.
With all the amenities of Highridge we just mentioned, this unit is an excellent choice for your winter ski vacation.
Featured Amenities:
- Newly renovated kitchen
- Loft
- Sauna
Frequently Asked Questions about Winter in Killington
What is the snowiest month in Killington?
February is typically the snowiest month in Killington, receiving upwards of 55 inches on average. That said, March also usually totals in the 50s for inches received, and some say that January’s consistent snowfall and cold temps make for the best skiing. Be sure to check local snow reports as you’re planning so you can make the best decision for the current season.
What to do in Killington if not skiing?
Killington is known for its skiing and snowboarding conditions, but if that’s not your thing, there’s still tons to do. Try ice skating, sledding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, Nordic sports like snowshoeing, and more!