In the heart of the Green Mountain lies one of the best destinations for vacationers who crave the outdoors. Whether it’s skiing in the winter or hiking and mountain biking in the summer, Killington, Vermont is a one-stop hub for all things adventure.
While it’s known widely for outdoor sports, this month, we’re shining a light on things you may not know. Check out these 10 unique and fun facts about Killington, Vermont, and get ready as we look forward to the start of another incredible season here on the mountain!
Fun Facts About Killington, Vermont
10. Killington has not one but TWO PGA Golf Courses
If you’re an avid golfer, Killington is a wonderful place to work on your game. Whether you’re venturing to the Green Mountain National Golf Course, or stepping right outside your Killington Rental Associates vacation rental and onto the green at the Killington Golf Course, you’ll be met with championship grounds, challenging fairways, and exceptional rounds of play.
9. There’s a Wine Trail
That’s right, you don’t have to go to the West Coast to enjoy delicious wines! Killington is supremely situated near several fantastic wineries and vineyards where you can sip your way through unique varietals of classic vintages, ciders, fruit wines, and meads. It’s also home to the Killington Wine Festival. An annual event that features exceptional local wines, gourmet food, and artisan goods.
8. Killington Peak is the 2nd Highest Mountain in the Green Mountains
Reaching 4,229 feet, Killington Peak towers above the surrounding hills of the Green Mountains. Second only to Mount Mansfield, which comes in at 4,393 feet. On a clear day, from the top of Killington Peak, you can see five states: Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, New York, and Massachusetts.
Another fascinating fact about Killington Peak is its age. At more than 900 million years old, this mountain has been around longer than the Alps, the Himalayas, and the Rocky Mountains.
7. The Appalachian Trail Runs Through Killington
Running almost 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is a hiking feat that draws roughly 3,000 attempts each year. More than 16 miles of the trail runs through Killington, allowing you to experience part of this famous trail for yourself when you visit.
6. It’s Home to the Largest Vertical Drop in New England
The Killington Ski Resort draws avid skiers and winter sports enthusiasts every year thanks to the thrilling runs waiting at Killington Peak, Ramshead, and other resort area mountains. One of the most thrilling feats you’ll find is the 3,050-foot vertical drop waiting for you when you ride the “Beast of the East,” the largest vertical drop in all New England.
5. Killington, Vermont is the Largest Ski Town in the Eastern U.S.
The town of Killington features the largest skiing area in the Eastern U.S., with 1,509 skiable acres and 23 separate lifts. Up the road at the Pico Mountain resort, another 2,000 acres are waiting, with 92 trails perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and more.
4. Killington Was Instrumental in Creating Modern-Day Snowboarding
Before there was the snowboard, there was the “Snurfer,” a board shorter and wider than a ski with a rope attached for steering. The concept of surfing on snow grew in popularity, propelled into the mainstream by Vermont native Jake Burton Carpenter, and Killington Resort was one of the first ski resorts to allow snurfing back in the 80s.
3. It's Home to the Only Women’s World Cup in the Eastern United States
The Stifel Killington Cup has been a staple on the Audi FIS Ski World Cup circuit since 2016 and brings massive crowds to our tiny mountain town each year. This year’s competition is slated for November 29-December 1, with an estimated 40,000 guests expected to be in attendance.
The Killington portion of the competition is held on the Superstar trail and features slalom and giant slalom events.
2. Killington Mountain was a Gift
Both Killington Peak and Pico were owned by a man named Mortimer Proctor. He was gifted Pico for his 21st birthday, and later, in 1938, returned the favor and awarded the state of Vermont ownership of Killington Peak. Pico was later sold to Pico Ski Inc. in 1948, and both have grown into the thriving tourist destinations we know today.
1. They Were Pioneers of Computerized Snow-Making Systems
What good is a world-class ski resort if you don’t have snow? In 1965, Killington founder Preston Smith began working with engineers to coat the slopes with manufactured snow. Not only did this bolster the natural snow on Northeast-facing slopes, but it allowed trails like Superstar, which was once thought to be undevelopable, to take shape.
Recently the resort was sold to a group of Killington locals led by Phill Gross and Michael Ferri. And with 30 million dollars in revitalization funds, the group is wasting no time making exciting upgrades, among which include 1,000 new “low energy” snow guns that will add even more winter fun to the landscape.
Discover More Fun When You Visit Killington
Featured Property: Ridgetop Chateau
Get to know even more about Killington when you book your next vacation directly with Killington Rental Associates. From exciting things to do to area events, there’s always something going happening.
Whether you’re looking for a lodge for a family ski trip or a cozy hotel room for a quick getaway, we have you covered. Plus, when you book directly with us, you’ll avoid hidden fees places like Airbnb add to your bottom line.
Browse our complete list of Killington vacation rentals and book your getaway today!