Bolton Valley Resort
An authentic Vermont ski resort with a family-friendly vibe, offering diverse activities, night skiing, and beautiful lake views at affordable prices.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Bolton Valley Resort
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An authentic Vermont ski resort with a family-friendly vibe, offering diverse activities, night skiing, and beautiful lake views at affordable prices.
"Bolton Valley has an old school VT Ski Area vibe, complete with fat biking, cross country skiing, and a skate park."
🎯 Embrace the Rustic Charm
Enjoy the old-school VT vibe; it's less about frills and more about authentic mountain fun.
⏰ Book Rentals Early
Rental lines can be long, especially at opening. Plan accordingly to maximize your time on the slopes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Night Skiing & Western Slopes
Western Slopes
Experience stunning sunsets and illuminated trails for a unique night skiing adventure. Lake Champlain views are a bonus!
Backcountry & Tree Skiing
Various areas
Explore challenging glades and natural terrain for an adventurous experience. The woods here are known to shine.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Entire Resort
Enjoy a welcoming environment with affordable passes, rope tows for beginners, and a relaxed vibe perfect for families.
Diverse Activities
Resort Base
Beyond skiing, enjoy fat biking, cross-country skiing, a skate park, and a pool for year-round fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Old-School Vermont Vibe
Plan for Rentals & Lessons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Rustic Charm
Enjoy the old-school VT vibe; it's less about frills and more about authentic mountain fun.
⏰ Book Rentals Early
Rental lines can be long, especially at opening. Plan accordingly to maximize your time on the slopes.
🧑🏫 Consider a Ski Lesson
Instructors like Guy are praised for their patience and skill, especially for beginners.
💰 Affordable Mountain
Bolton Valley is a budget-friendly option compared to larger, more commercialized resorts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Rustic Charm
Enjoy the old-school VT vibe; it's less about frills and more about authentic mountain fun.
⏰ Book Rentals Early
Rental lines can be long, especially at opening. Plan accordingly to maximize your time on the slopes.
🧑🏫 Consider a Ski Lesson
Instructors like Guy are praised for their patience and skill, especially for beginners.
💰 Affordable Mountain
Bolton Valley is a budget-friendly option compared to larger, more commercialized resorts.
🏞️ Explore Beyond the Slopes
Don't miss fat biking, cross-country skiing, or the skate park for diverse activities.
🌅 Catch the Sunset Views
The western slopes offer gorgeous views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks, especially during night skiing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bolton Valley is loved for its authentic, old-school Vermont charm and family-friendly atmosphere, offering a more affordable and less crowded experience than larger resorts. Visitors appreciate the diverse activities beyond skiing, the quality of instruction, and the beautiful views, though some note potential wait times for rentals and the absence of a beginner ski lift.
"I LOVE Bolton Valley. Bolton Valley has an old school VT Ski Area vibe, complete with fat biking, cross country skiing, split boarding in the backcountry, a skate / BMX park, and pool. There are several dining options on-site, and plenty of others if you are willing to drive out to Waterbury, Burlington, and Stowe. Plenty to do for the non-skier. The ski lesson programs are also very good, small class sizes make them more individualized and worth the price. The trails are great, plenty of groomed, natural, and glades to keep the most skilled interested. Bolton may not have some of the frills you might get at a Stowe, but it is family and budget friendly by comparison and you will absolutely have a fun time."
John Raschi
"Bolton Valley Resort was great! I took a 2 hour adult class with instructor, Guy, and it was great! Guy was patient, fun, and a great teacher well versed in technique. I would definitely take another class from him.
The resort was good. There were lots of rental options for boots/ski's. The beginner slope had a pull rope but no beginner ski lift. BUT the green mountain runs were an appropriate level for a beginner.
Would go back!
Also there were hotel rooms right at the base of the mountain. I didn't stay there, but would be a great option for someone interested in that."
Danielle K
"Awesome smaller mountain, more of a rustic feel than overly hyped and built out mega-get-as-many people on lift lines places on ikon and epic. Might skiing was great, really cool seeing tons of local families getting out after school, brought me back to getting out to small local mountain as a kid with my dad. Anyway, great mountain, unfortunately it was quite icy the day I was there so I didn't venture in too far in to the woods but that's where this place seems to shine. Gorgeous view of lake Champlain."
Ben Shaffer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bolton Valley Resort is located in Bolton, Vermont. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors drive from Burlington, which is about a 30-40 minute commute.
Public transportation options directly to Bolton Valley are limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services from nearby towns like Waterbury or Burlington is generally the most convenient way to reach the resort.
Winter driving in Vermont can be challenging. Ensure your vehicle is equipped for snow and ice, and check road conditions before you travel. AWD or 4WD is recommended.
Yes, Bolton Valley offers slopeside hotel rooms and condos right at the base of the mountain, making it a convenient option for an immersive experience.
The closest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), which is about a 30-40 minute drive from Bolton Valley Resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Bolton Valley is known for being more affordable than many other Vermont resorts. Prices vary by day and season, but it's generally considered a budget-friendly option. Check their official website for current pricing.
Yes, purchasing lift tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
While there isn't a separate beginner ticket, the resort has a rope tow on the beginner slope, and green runs are suitable for novices. Lift tickets grant access to all open lifts.
Operating hours vary by season and day of the week. They are known for night skiing on select evenings. Always check the official Bolton Valley website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
It is highly recommended to book ski and snowboard lessons in advance, especially during busy periods, to ensure availability with instructors.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Bolton Valley offers a mix of groomed runs, natural snow trails, and glades, catering to various skill levels from beginners to advanced skiers and riders.
Yes, Bolton Valley is considered good for beginners, with a dedicated beginner slope featuring a rope tow and green runs that are appropriate for learning.
The resort is praised for its backcountry and tree skiing, as well as its night skiing opportunities and stunning views of Lake Champlain.
Yes, Bolton Valley has rental options for skis, snowboards, and boots. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.
Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Bolton Valley offers fat biking, cross-country skiing, a skate/BMX park, and a pool, making it a year-round destination.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are several dining options on-site at Bolton Valley, ranging from casual cafes to more substantial meals. They even had a small Japanese Onigiri hut!
Yes, if you're willing to drive a bit, Waterbury, Burlington, and Stowe offer a wider variety of dining establishments.
While specific options aren't detailed, most resort dining facilities offer a range of choices. It's always best to inquire directly with the venue about specific dietary needs.
Compared to some larger resorts, dining at Bolton Valley is generally considered more reasonably priced, aligning with its budget-friendly reputation.
While not explicitly stated, bringing snacks and drinks is generally permissible at most outdoor recreational areas. For full meals, resort dining is the primary option.
📸 📸 Photography
The western slopes offer stunning panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains, especially at sunset. The tree lines and backcountry areas also provide dramatic shots.
Yes, night skiing offers a unique photographic opportunity with illuminated trails and the dramatic contrast of light and shadow.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views. For action shots, a telephoto lens can be useful. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions during night skiing.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of other visitors and resort operations.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting. Mid-day can be harsh, but the expansive views are still impressive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking ski lessons in advance, as the small class sizes ensure personalized attention for your children. The resort's overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming, allowing families to create lasting memories without the pressure of larger, more crowded resorts.
💰 Budget Travelers
Take advantage of weekday visits to avoid peak pricing and crowds. While there are on-site dining options, consider packing some snacks or planning meals in nearby towns like Waterbury for further savings. The value offered at Bolton Valley makes it a top pick for cost-conscious travelers seeking authentic mountain fun.
🏂 Advanced Riders & Backcountry Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity for night skiing on the western slopes, which offers a unique perspective and can be particularly thrilling. The views of Lake Champlain during these night sessions add an extra layer of appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bolton Valley Legacy: More Than Just Slopes
+1 Visitors often praise its family-friendly atmosphere and the feeling of a locally-owned gem. The resort has expanded its offerings beyond traditional skiing and snowboarding. It now boasts amenities like fat biking, cross-country skiing trails, a skate/BMX park, and even a pool. This diversification ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned skier or looking for alternative outdoor adventures.
Despite not having all the 'frills' of larger resorts, Bolton Valley excels in providing an authentic and enjoyable experience. Its affordability and focus on community make it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike, who appreciate its genuine character and the lasting memories it helps create.
Navigating Bolton Valley: From Beginner to Backcountry
Beyond the beginner areas, Bolton Valley is renowned for its challenging backcountry and tree skiing. The natural terrain and glades offer exciting opportunities for more experienced riders seeking adventure.
One of Bolton Valley's unique draws is its night skiing. The illuminated trails provide a different perspective of the mountain and offer the chance to ski under the stars. The western slopes, in particular, offer stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains during these evening sessions, making for a memorable experience.
Work and Travel Opportunities at Bolton Valley
These programs allow individuals to immerse themselves in the local culture and gain valuable work experience. For example, one user shared their journey from Peru to Bolton Valley, expressing happiness and gratitude for the opportunity to work and travel in Vermont.
This suggests that Bolton Valley is not just a tourist destination but also a place that provides employment and cultural exchange.For those interested in such opportunities, it's advisable to look into specific programs and visa requirements. The resort's engagement with international workers underscores its role as a diverse and welcoming community, offering unique experiences beyond the typical visitor's perspective.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit