Last Winter, we visited Smugglers’ Notch ski resort in Vermont. Smugglers’ Notch is definitely one of the best ski resorts for accessibility. It offers excellent accommodations and versatile terrain. The activities cater to skiers, snowboarders, and non-skiers alike.
What are we looking for besides the awesome slopes:
- Ease of getting around the resort
- A variety of activities and food options
- Ski gear and souvenirs to load up on
- family friendly activities
- keeping non-skiers occupied
- ambiance
- and of course, nightlife!
Smuggler’s has it all and more!
Getting to Smugglers’ Notch
We drove from the Mid-Atlantic area. We briefly stopped in Manhattan and then stayed overnight in an airbnb. This helped break up the drive. The next morning we continued our journey and were at Smugglers’ Notch just in time to hit the slopes. The drive there was snowy, but beautiful with the trees covered in white.
On the way to Smuggs!
More scenery along the way!
The Slopes
The resort has approximately 6 to 8 lifts, and 70 plus trails. When we were there, many of the trails were closed because of the snow and ice. That didn’t stop us from having fun! At least one person in our party went skiing every day although the temperature was below double digits at times. Inside, where we were staying, the fireplace kept us warm with the flip of a switch. The resort also has nice outdoor fire pits to stay warm.
Winter Activities
Skiing and snowboarding are just the beginning at Smugglers’ Notch Resort—there is a whole world of winter fun waiting off the slopes. If you are looking to mix things up or traveling with non-skiers, you will never have to worry about running out of things to do. The resort keeps a packed calendar of winter adventures and indoor activities, making it impossible to stay bored.
During our stay, we loved balancing our time between the snow and the resort’s lively social scene. Here are a few fantastic options to keep on your radar:
- Outdoor Winter Classics: Trade your skis for a pair of snowshoes to explore the peaceful mountain trails, fly down the dedicated snow tubing hill, or head over to the outdoor rink for some ice skating.
- Crafts, Games & Socials: Indoors, you can unwind with everything from creative paint-and-sip classes to high-energy bingo nights.
- Après-Ski Nightlife: For a perfect evening wind-down, check out trivia night at Bootlegger’s Lounge—it was easily one of the highlights of our entire trip.
Getting Around the Resort
To travel there or anywhere on the resort or into the village shops, there’s a wonderful shuttle service. You can easily access it with their app, Smuggs Go! Order a shuttle through the app, and it arrives promptly.
Evening Entertainment
Trivia Night!
Once the shuttle arrived, we were headed to Bootleggers for trivia night. We picked a table and waited for the trivia games to start. They serve food and drinks as well. We named our group and added it to the kahoot and once everyone had added their names, the games began. It was truly low stress and fun. While we didn’t win, we really enjoyed ourselves and learned some new trivia. Definitely something we would do again.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Ringing in the New Year at Smugglers’ Notch Resort was an absolute blast! The resort was buzzing with festive holiday energy and packed with awesome New Year’s Eve activities. We spent the evening flying down the illuminated lanes for some thrilling glow tubing. The absolute highlight, though, was standing right out on the snowy slopes to watch a spectacular fireworks display light up the mountain sky. It was the ultimate way to celebrate!
Resort Amenities
Indoor Pool and Hot Tub
We originally planned to check out the indoor pool and hot tub but simply ran out of time. They are definitely at the top of our to-do list for next time!
Dining
Having a beautiful kitchen in our condo made it easy to prepare meals at home, but the village’s vibrant culinary scene was too good to pass up. The air is constantly filled with the irresistible scent of freshly made waffles, which taste incredible topped with outstanding Vermont maple butter. Between the bustling food court, plentiful restaurant choices, and an on-site Ben & Jerry’s, there is truly something to satisfy every craving.
Shopping
During our stay, we checked out the ski shop, a gear shop, and a handy little general store. The general store was great—it was stocked with groceries, drinks, and all the essential supplies we needed, plus some really cool souvenirs to take home.
Where to Stay
We had a wonderful stay at Club Wyndham Smugglers’ Notch Vermont as guests of a timeshare owner. The resort was perfect for our group; the avid skier among us took full advantage of the ski-in/ski-out convenience, and the on-demand shuttle made navigating the entire property effortless. The accommodations themselves were cozy and inviting, complete with excellent amenities like an in-unit washer and dryer—a much-appreciated perk for drying out snowy ski gear.
Final Thoughts
Smugglers’ Notch truly delivers for everyone in the group — skiers and non-skiers alike. With over 70 trails, a full shuttle service, diverse winter activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and trivia nights, plus solid dining, shopping, and comfortable resort accommodations, it checks every box on our travel wish list. Whether you’re hitting the slopes every day or staying cozy by the fire, there’s something here to keep you happy. We can’t wait to go back!
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