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Resort Comparison

Pico Mountain Resort vs Smugglers' Notch Resort

Smugglers' Notch Resort excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain and walkability.

The Verdict

Smugglers' Notch Resort leads with 5 wins
Best for Families
Smugglers' Notch Resort

Ski school from age 2.5

Best Snowfall
Smugglers' Notch Resort

88.3" average season

Best Terrain
Smugglers' Notch Resort

Impressive mountain

Best Value
Pico Mountain Resort

$0 day pass

Easiest Access
Smugglers' Notch Resort

1h from BTV

Best Village Vibe
Smugglers' Notch Resort

World-class village experience

Pico Mountain Resort
Vermont, United States
$$
Smugglers' Notch Resort
Vermont, USA
$$Independent

Family

Ski School Age
-
2.5+
Full-Day Program
-
Beginner Terrain
5.0
9.0
Walkability
5.0
8.5
Village Vibe
5.0
9.5

Mountain

Vertical
1,948'
2,610'
Skiable Area
0 ac
311 ac
Green Runs
20%
25%
Trails
66
78
Lifts
7
8

Getting There

Airport
BTV
BTV
Drive Time
2h
1h
Road Ease
5.0
7.5

Cost

Passes
None
Independent
Day Pass
$0
$99
Cost Tier
Moderate
Moderate

Village

Dining
Limited
Moderate
Grocery
Spa
Pool
Add a third resort to compare

Snowfall Comparison

Live conditions

Pico Mountain Resort

77.6"

avg season

2024-25 season

75" total

97%

Smugglers' Notch Resort

88.3"

avg season

2024-25 season

86.2" total

98%

Season Accumulation (10-Year Average)

OctNovDecJanFebMarApr
88"44"0"
Pico Mountain Resort
Smugglers' Notch Resort

Key Insights

Smugglers' Notch Resort excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain and walkability.

Key Differences

  • Smugglers' Notch Resort's beginner terrain score (9.0) exceeds Pico Mountain Resort's (5.0), making it better for families prioritizing beginner runs
  • Smugglers' Notch Resort's walkability score (8.5) exceeds Pico Mountain Resort's (5.0), making it better for families prioritizing walkability
  • Smugglers' Notch Resort's family village atmosphere score (9.5) exceeds Pico Mountain Resort's (5.0), making it better for families prioritizing family village experience
  • Smugglers' Notch Resort offers more terrain variety (311 acres vs 0 acres)
  • Smugglers' Notch Resort has greater vertical drop (2,610' vs 1,948'), offering longer runs

Best For

Pico Mountain Resort

  • Budget-conscious families

Smugglers' Notch Resort

  • Families with first-time skiers (excellent beginner terrain)
  • Those seeking a walkable village experience
  • Families wanting a charming, kid-friendly atmosphere

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Regions

Colorado
Utah
British Columbia

Best For

Best for Beginners
Most Walkable
Best for Toddlers

Guides

First Family Ski Trip Guide
Best Time to Go Skiing