Killington Ski Resort in the Green Mountains kicked off its opening week on Nov. 12 with big crowds, fresh snow and lots of excitement, especially as the mountain entered its first season under new and improved management. Students who made the trip said the conditions and energy were fantastic this year for opening week.
The resort has already seen stronger early snowfall than usual, helped by colder temperatures and upgraded snowmaking equipment. Many trails opened earlier than expected. This made opening week feel bigger and better than past years. This is due to the fact that Killington’s new owners have been investing heavily in new snowmaking machines, lifts, and general upgrades throughout the resort. Skiers and snowboarders noticed these improvements immediately.
“I traveled up to Killington with my family for opening week,” sophomore Simon Matalon said. “There was definitely more snow and the energy there was insane. It felt like a celebration. You can tell that they invested a lot this year.”
Those investments include replacing older lift systems, improving gondola cabins and adding new snow machines across the mountain. The new management team has said they want Killington to stay one of the top ski resorts on the East Coast, especially for young riders.
The changes this year aren’t the only thing drawing attention to skiers and snowboarders. Killington’s schedule this year is packed with competitions and events that many riders look forward to. One of the first big events was the Loaded Turkey Rail Jam. This event brought out both beginner riders and competitive riders showing off their skills and tricks
Later in the winter, the resort will host clinics, U.S.A.S.A. competitions and longtime favorites such as Slash & Berm, the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge and the Pond Skim, which always attracts huge crowds.
Riders said that the new management is focusing on the community. Some of the funding this year is going towards better grooming equipment, youth ski programs and sustainability efforts around the mountain. While big upgrades like lifts get the most attention, many skiers said the improvements behind the scenes matter just as much.
“Killington is a beautiful and fun mountain to ski on, so I can’t wait for it to open this year, as the new management will mean only more improvements to the great mountain,” sophomore Max Hendizadeh said. “As a skier, I can’t wait any longer until I can ski again, let alone at one of my favorite mountains, Killington. And I can’t wait until opening week to experience the new improvements as a skier.”
His words show that opening week is about more than just getting back on the slopes. Local riders are excited to test out new tricks at events they practiced last season, explore trails they haven’t skied before and challenge themselves on the more difficult terrain that Killington offers.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Killington is adding more fun for the spectators as well. Live DJ sets are being added to the base lodges, hot chocolate giveaways and interactive fan zones at events are making opening week feel like a festival. Even if you don’t plan on skiing, snowboarding or competing, there’s truly something for everyone to do at Killington this season.
“I’m just so excited to finally be back on the slopes,” sophomore Kyle Nihan said. “Opening week is the best part of the season.”
For many riders, opening week isn’t just about skiing or snowboarding, but rather the tradition and celebration of ski season returning. The first week back on snow sets the tone for the rest of winter. Fortunately, this year’s strong start has riders feeling hopeful of a great season ahead.
With fresh snow, new leadership and a full lineup of events ahead, Killington’s season is off to a strong start. Student skiers at North High say they’re ready for everything that Killington has to offer this year.
