As the snow starts falling, a popular activity for those in Westport is to go skiing or snowboarding. What better way to spend short winter days then racing down mountains, while enjoying the scenery as its whips by.  This isn’t the only thing that makes skiing enjoyable; think about the breaks after a long day of skiing, when hot, delicious cocoa is served, along with a scrumptious waffle.  These things combined make a great ski trip (even for a day). This complied list of the top five best ski mountains nearest to Westport includes these qualities and more.

1.     Jiminy Peak: Hancock, MA – Although on the smaller side, this mountain has a lot to offer, with multiple trails ranging from greens to black diamonds. The focus of the trails seems to be levels of blues with moderate lengths and challenges. During the week there is only one high-speed lift to take skiers and snowboarders up to the 2830 ft summit. One reason why this mountain is great for skiers and snowboarders is the fact that it is a beautiful resort, much like those in Vermont. It has well maintained trails, good services and dining facilities, with many good options in the nearby town of Pittsfield. Another option offered is the thrill of being able to ski at night.

2.     Windham Mountain: Windham, NY – This mountain is a quite and the less crowded mountain of the bunch, with a range of trails of all levels. Having two peaks with a 3100 ft summit and 1600 ft drop, the collection of decent green trails, challenging blue trails, a few black, and quite a few double black diamonds makes this unbeatable. The facilities are decent, but the services, such as rental equipment are very good. Due to the large amount of snowfall, the trails are constantly being well maintained. The only downside is the fact that there is no surrounding town.

3.     Hunter Mountain: Hunter, NY – One of the biggest ski resorts in the Catskills of New York. Offering a wide range of diverse trails of all levels from challenging black diamonds to simple green trails. A possible set back or an increase of excitement is the fact that this resort is very popular and trails can sometimes be crowded on weekends. Distance wise this mountain is actually fairly close to Westport, making it a possible day trip. Having two peaks with a 3200 ft summit increases the chance to change up trails throughout the day. The lodge offers lots of dining choices to accommodate the influx of people, as well as having decent services and equipment. Another fun activity offered is to try out skiing at night.

4.     Butternut Basin: Great Barrington, MA – Having simple trails of all levels, each being of moderate lengths always for easy relaxed, rather than challenging fast paced skiing. Because of this and the small size, this mountain might not be for some. But for those who do like this type of skiing, the mountain offers adequate facilities and services for its skiers or snowboarders. Being in an active and fun town like Great Barrington is definitely a benefit, as well as being closer to Westport. There are a few downsides of skiing closer to home, having spotty snow coverage, as well as having a 1800 ft summit with only one lift up.

5.     Mohawk Mountain: Cornwall, CT – Being close to home is a huge reason why this is one of the best local ski mountains in Connecticut. Offering simple green trails, two blue trails, and two black diamonds, which are short but sufficient for a quick ski. No trails are considered challenges and there is only one small lift up to the 1600 ft summit. Being located in Connecticut causes spotty snow coverage at times during the beginning of the season, but when it does snow this small mountain can be a short, few hours ski.