The countdown to Killington’s opening day, November 15th, 2023 is on, and we’re here to make sure you’re fully prepared to carve up the mountain! From can’t-miss events to the nitty-gritty of pre-season prep, we’ll cover it all. So, dust off those skis and snowboards, unpack your winter wardrobe and secure your cozy Killington ski-in/ski-out vacation rental because November will be here before you know it, and you won’t want to miss a second of the 2023-2024 winter season.
Preparing for Killington’s Ski Season
Whether you’re new to winter sports or you’re a seasoned pro, preparation is paramount to ensuring you’re ready for the season. From your gear to your passes, there’s a lot to think about. Our list of essentials is designed to take the guesswork out of planning. Do you have all these things covered?
Helmet – Protecting against concussions and injury is a must! Compacted snow can hit like a cement slab, so making sure you have a properly-fitting helmet is at the top of the list. It also helps keep your head dry and warm throughout the day.
Neck Gaiter- Keep your neck warm and comfortable all day with proper coverage.
Goggles – When the sun reflects off the white snow, it’s blinding. Protect your eyes from the bright rays, stinging snow, and whipping winds with a quality pair of goggles. Note: if you wear glasses, be sure to get a pair that will fit over them easily.
Sunscreen – Though most of your body will be covered with jackets and gloves, it’s still a good idea to protect against UV rays with an SPF of 30 or more. You especially don’t want to forget about lip protection!
Water Bottle – As with any physically demanding sport, hydration is key! Take a water bottle or hydration pack with you, or be sure to plan for breaks throughout the day.
Layers – Again, skiing and snowboarding are extremely physical sports, so wearing clothes you can remove if you get too hot or add if you get cold will help you maximize your time on the slopes. No one wants to stop in the middle of the fun because they’re too uncomfortable to enjoy it. When buying clothes, be sure to look for waterproof fabrics that will help keep you warm and won’t retain moisture. Synthetics like polyester or even wool are great options.
Gloves and Footwear – Waterproof gloves or mittens that fit well are a must, as well as wool socks that will comfortably fit in your boots. You can even throw in some hand and foot warmers for optimal comfort on really cold days.
Tickets and Passes – K-Tickets are on sale now, and early birds can save up to 40%. Valid every day of the winter season, K-Tickets are available for a limited time and have zero blackout dates, so grab them before they’re gone! While you’re at it, be sure to pick up your lift tickets to save time and money on your trip. Opening day is slated for November 11th, weather-dependent, so act fast.
Lessons – Whether you’re a beginner or just looking to dust off your skills, booking a lesson at Killington Snow Sports School will help you build confidence before your first run of the season. With classes for all ages and even group lessons, it’s the perfect activity to kick off your winter vacation in Killington.
Killington Winter Gear Rental and Replacements
Now that you’ve secured your gear, bought your passes, and booked your lessons, it’s time to make sure everything is up to snuff. Does your jacket have a hole? Are you missing a glove? Do your goggles have a scratch that prevents you from seeing clearly? These are things you’ll want to address before you go for your first run down the mountain. By inspecting your gear ahead of time, you can take advantage of pre-season sales that can help you replace important pieces at a discount!
You’ll also want to inspect your skis and snowboards. Getting items tuned before the masses arrive can save you time and let you get right to the fun stuff on your Killington winter vacation. Whether you’re looking for winter gear rentals, replacement items, or the best sales, Killington’s vendors can have you ready in no time.
Killington Winter Season Events
While opening day festivities will be announced closer to the date, the most popular event of the winter season in Killington is definitely the Stifel Killington Cup. Bringing an estimated 20,000 additional people to town, the event celebrates the history and passion for alpine ski racing in the Northeast.
Over the weekend of November 24-26, spectators will be able to see the most talented female athletes in the sport compete in extraordinary races. With a kickoff parade, fireworks displays, live music, panels, film screenings, and after-parties at local bars and restaurants as just part of the scheduled events, those planning a Thanksgiving ski trip to Killington are in for an epic weekend.
Ski-In/Ski-Out Killington Vacation Rentals
Elevate your Killington ski vacation by booking a vacation rental that puts you right in the heart of the action. Our collection of ski-in/ski-out properties is extensive and offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a rental with a hot tub and incredible views like Lodges at Sunrise Village B303 (pictured) or one near the 50 trails and 6 lifts of Pico Mountain like Pico Resort Unit E304, a ski-in/ski-out vacation rental from Killington Rental Associates will ensure you have an excellent home-base for your vacation.
The 2023-2024 winter season promises to be one for the books, and you'll want to experience it all. So, gear up, get ready, and book your trip directly with Killington Rental Associates today. We can’t wait to see you on the slopes!