Okemo vs Killington: Which Is Better? [2024]

Okemo vs Killington: Two of the most well-known ski resorts in the United States, Okemo Mountain Resort and Killington Resort, are in the Green Mountains of Vermont. These resorts offer guests top-notch skiing and snowboarding opportunities and many off-mountain activities. But which is superior? 

To help you choose which resort is the best for your upcoming ski holiday, in this post, we will compare and contrast Killington vs. Okemo while considering elements like terrain, amenities, and atmosphere. 

So if you're trying to pick between Okemo and Killington for your Vermont vacation, keep reading to learn which wins.

Overview: Okemo vs Killington

Okemo Ski Resort

One of the top ski resorts in the country, Okemo Ski Resort is situated in the charming Vermont town of Ludlow. Okemo has long been a favorite among skiers and snowboarders thanks to its breathtaking vistas of the Green Mountains and spectacular 2,200-foot vertical drop. It initially opened its doors in 1956.

The resort is a terrific option for skiers and snowboarders of all ability levels because it has over 120 routes across 667 acres of skiable terrain. With 32% of the trails labeled as beginner, 38% as intermediate, and 30% as expert, Okemo boasts a decent balance of beginner, intermediate, and expert runs. 

The mountain also enjoys a well-deserved reputation for having some of the best-groomed routes in the nation, thanks to a massive snow grooming crew that works nonstop to keep the slopes in good condition.

Okemo provides guests with various winter sports in addition to skiing and snowboarding. The resort offers many activities, including snowshoeing, ice skating, tubing, and snowmobiling. 

Okemo offers a full-service spa with massages, facials, and other services for visitors seeking to unwind after a day on the slopes.

Dining options in Okemo range from inexpensive cafés and bars to posh restaurants. The resort is known for its excellent cuisine, which uses products and ingredients from nearby farms. Hotels, condominiums, and private residences are just a few available accommodations, all conveniently situated close to the mountain.

Customer service is one of the things that distinguishes Okemo from other ski resorts. The hotel takes great pride in its attention to detail and goes above and beyond to ensure guests have a wonderful time. 

Okemo is a premier ski resort with something for everyone, from the welcoming employees to the well-kept amenities.

Killington Resort

On the East Coast of the United States, Killington Resort is one of the most well-known and well-liked ski resorts. The resort, situated in the Vermont town of Killington, provides skiers and snowboarders with various terrain, services, and activities.

The resort has nearly 1,500 acres of skiable terrain split across six summits and has operated since 1958. With a 3,050-foot vertical drop, Killington is one of the biggest ski areas in the Northeast. There are several paths on the mountain, with 28% categorized as beginner, 33% as intermediate, and 39% as an expert.

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice skating are just a few of the many winter sports available in Killington, besides skiing and snowboarding. The resort offers various eating options, including a full-service spa, a hotel, a condo, and private house accommodations.

Killington's dedication to snowmaking is one of its most distinctive qualities. The resort has over 1,000 snow guns and can cover 80% of its terrain with artificial snow, guaranteeing guests excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions all season.

Killington is also known as a party destination, with a lively après-ski scene that includes live music, drinks, and dancing. The resort is known for hosting various events and festivals throughout the winter, including the annual Killington World Cup, which draws some of the best skiers in the world.

Overall, Killington Resort is a premier ski destination that offers visitors an incredible variety of terrain, activities, and amenities. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there is something for everyone at Killington. 

With its commitment to snowmaking and reputation for being a great place to party, Killington is a must-visit destination for any skier or snowboarder.

Comparison of Okemo Resort vs. Killington Resort

1. Mountain Size:

Compared to Okemo, Killington has a bigger mountain and more terrain. Killington has 155 routes, a skiable area of 1,509 acres, and a 3,050-foot vertical drop. Conversely, Okemo offers a total skiable area of 667 acres, 120 routes, and a 2,200-foot vertical drop. Although Okemo is a comparatively tiny mountain, there are still a lot of skiable terrains there.

2. Terrain:

Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels may choose from various terrain alternatives in Okemo and Killington. The slopes at Okemo are renowned for their superb grooming and diligent upkeep, with 32% of the trails classified as beginner, 38% as intermediate, and 30% as an expert. 

Families with small children or novice skiers wishing to advance their abilities will love the mountain's routes. The well-planned and constructed trail system at Okemo offers everyone a seamless and pleasurable skiing experience. Known for its difficult terrain and steep slopes, Killington. Killington features 155 trails, with 28% categorized as beginner, 33% as intermediate, and 39% as expert, so there is something for everyone.

There are several possibilities for experienced skiers searching for a challenge on the resort's expert slopes, renowned for their steep pitches and moguls. Killington is a wonderful choice for intermediate skiers wishing to advance their abilities, albeit the intermediate lines there may be steep and difficult.

3. Lift System:

Skiers and snowboarders can easily and rapidly ascend the mountain in Okemo and Killington, thanks to their cutting-edge lift systems. There are 20 lifts at Okemo, including two magic carpets, six high-speed quads, and one detachable quad. 

There are 22 lifts at Killington, including 6 high-speed quads, 1 detachable quad, and 1 gondola. Skiers and snowboarders may anticipate short wait times even during peak times because of the abundance of lifts available.

4. Snow Conditions:

Okemo and Killington are known for their excellent snow conditions. Okemo has a comprehensive snowmaking system, allowing the resort to open up to 98% of its trails to skiers and snowboarders throughout the season. The resort has over 600 snow guns and a fleet of snow groomers that work around the clock to maintain its impeccably groomed slopes.

Killington is known for its long and consistent skiing season, which lasts from November to May. The mountain also has an extensive snowmaking system, covering up to 80% of its terrain with man-made snow. Additionally, Killington's higher elevation and location in northern Vermont mean that it often receives more natural snowfall than other resorts.

5. Family-Friendliness:

With many activities and services geared toward children and families, Okemo is renowned for its family-friendly ambiance. The resort has a range of classes and programs specially made for youngsters, such as the Okemo Mountain Explorers program, which gives kids aged 4 to 14 full-day ski and snowboard training.

The resort also features a tubing park ideal for kids of all ages and a creche for youngsters between 6 months and 4 years. Moreover, Killington provides a variety of family-friendly pursuits, including tubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing.

For children just learning to ski, the resort features a special learning area with slopes suited for beginners and a Magic Carpet lift. For kids of all ages and ability levels, the Killington Ski School also provides a range of programs and instruction.

6. Après-Ski Scene:

Okemo and Killington have a thriving après-ski culture with various eating and entertainment choices. The eating options in Okemo range from inexpensive to upmarket restaurants and pubs. The resort also offers a variety of nighttime events, including karaoke, trivia nights, and live music. The vibrant après-ski culture in Killington is well-known, and several pubs and clubs stay up late. Various food alternatives are available at the resort, including sushi bars, fine dining establishments, and informal eateries. For those wishing to combine skiing with lively nightlife, the resort also offers a range of events and concerts throughout the season.

7 Overall Skiing Experience:

The overall skiing experience at Okemo and Killington is exceptional, with each resort offering unique features and experiences. Okemo is an excellent option for families and beginner to intermediate skiers who enjoy impeccably groomed trails and a relaxed atmosphere. 

The resort's attention to detail and dedication to providing an enjoyable skiing experience makes it a great option for those looking for a stress-free and enjoyable skiing vacation.

On the other hand, Killington is a great option for advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a challenge. The resort's steep terrain, long runs, and extensive lift system make it a popular destination for those looking to push their skills to the limit. 

Additionally, Killington's lively après-ski scene and various activities make it an excellent option for those looking to combine skiing with a vibrant nightlife.

Final Words

In conclusion, both Okemo and Killington are great options for skiing and snowboarding in Vermont, with each resort offering unique features and experiences. While Okemo is a smaller mountain with a family-friendly atmosphere, Killington is larger, with challenging terrain and a lively après-ski scene. Ultimately, the best resort depends on what you want for a skiing vacation. Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or advanced skier, a resort is perfect in Vermont.