I’ll let you in on a big secret: Thanksgiving weekend may be one of the more affordable times to ski all winter! November is considered shoulder season at most resorts, meaning there are many offers to be had not only for lift and lesson packages, but also for accommodation. Want to get away from the stress of cooking a big turkey dinner? This may very well be your ticket (pun intended).
True, you may not get the best conditions, or any conditions at all for that matter. This is where it’s important to check and double-check the booking policies before locking yourself in. Most resorts are fair, allowing trip cancellation at no cost should none of the lifts be running.
Safe Bets for the East Coast:
Killington, VT
The resort boasts the longest season in the East and it’s hard to argue- last season, they stayed open until the end of May. Killington is open now and has been since October 26th, meaning that unless massive disaster strikes, the resort should be a reliable destination for your turkey/snow fest.
Okemo Mountain Resort, VT
Okemo is renowned for quality snow making and grooming. This season, the mountain has made an impressive near $1 million investment in 225 new snow guns and pump/pipe network improvements. Set to open on November 16th, I would say this is a highly likely Thanksgiving destination.
Safe bets for the West Coast:
Mammoth Mountain, CA
This Cali resort just opened November 8th with 4 chairs operational and a mix of man made and natural snow cover. Mammoth offers not only Thanksgiving lodging specials, but also the opportunity to explore their Thanksgiving Arts Festival featuring local artists.
Whistler Blackcomb, BC
One of my personal faves, Whistler is the quintessential skiing destination in Canada. Great news for this year: the base is already 120cm and growing steadily, with the mountain opening day planned for November 22nd.
Ditch the yams and give skiing Thanksgiving weekend a try!
Winter is coming,
K