MAGIC MOUNTAIN RESORT GUIDE
Images courtesy of Magic Mountain
Magic Mountain Overview
Magic Mountain prides itself on being a place "where skiing still has a soul.” Located just outside of Londonderry, Magic stands out amongst Vermont's ‘Golden Triangle’ — including Stratton and Bromley, for its unique, laid back vibe coupled with some of the most challenging terrain in Southern Vermont. Magic remains affordable; it is Independently owned and offers 2 days on the Indy Pass. The resort limits sales of season passes and daily tickets to prevent the crowds more typical at neighboring resorts.
Magic's storied history is part of its charm. Though the mountain was abandoned for a few winters in the '90's and had multiple owners in the early 2000's; it has always maintained a passionate and loyal following. In the fall of 2016 Magic was acquired by an investor group led by Geoff Hatheway, and a renaissance has been underway ever since. They've added fixed-grip quads, increased snow-making to cover ~50% of terrain, grooming and the base area are benefitting from ongoing upgrades and night skiing is back.
At the end of the day, relax at the Black Line Tavern and make sure to check out the Grateful Dead inspired swag.
Snow Reliability
Snow-Making & Grooming
Ski School
Travel Convenience
Accommodations
Terrain Variety
On Mountain Dining
Extreme / Off-Piste Terrain
Quick Take
Let's Go
The resort's ridge lines and steep topography (up to 45° at the top of Master Magician) are unique in Southern Vermont. The runs are naturally narrow and twisting and descend 1,500 feet along with extensive tree-skiing
Geoff Hathaway and team are committed to upgrading the resort
Powder days here are legendary
An oasis away from the crowds thanks to limits on daily lift ticket sales and Indy Pass sales
Well designed terrain parks and tubing are accessible from the base
Hesitations
Magic remains "old school." Though the lifts have been updated, there are no high-speed lifts to the Summit
Magic is better for intermediate to advanced shredders; those just learning should consider nearby Stratton and/or Bromley
The trails here have remained virtually the same since the 1960s
Sizewise, Magic is smaller than other nearby mountains
There is no base village
Insider Tips
Powder days here are truly 'magical,' Magic is only open Thurs - Sun and holidays, UNLESS there are 6+ inches of snow by 6am. Then they offer special ticket sales Mon-Weds (see more info here)
Home to Southern VT's only after-hours lighted, terrain park; open on Fridays and Saturdays
The lodge, though fairly recently renovated, still has a throw-back feel. Plus, there is always a table
Londonderry was Jake Burton's hometown and it has a lot of character as well as good eats
Consider uphilling here Mon-Weds when the lifts are closed. Access is free and you will have the mountain to yourself
Trail Map
For an in-depth breakdown of Magic's terrain, head to our Mountain Guide. Top trails and mountain stats included.
Getting To
Closest Major City: Boston, MA
Distance: ~145 miles South East
Travel Time: ~ 3 hours drive
Other Notable Areas in Driving Distance
Manchester, VT, ~20 miles, ~30 minute drive
Albany, NY, ~76 miles, ~1 hr 30 minute drive
New York City, ~220 miles, ~ 4 hours drive
Neighboring Resorts
Magic Mountain is part of the Green Mountains and has many neighbors that make a good day trip
Closest Vermont Neighbors
Bromley (10 miles, ~15 mins)
Stratton (13 miles, ~20 mins)
Okemo (~19 miles, ~27 mins)
Mt. Snow (30 miles, ~45 mins)
Killington (40 miles, ~1 hour)
Closest Neighbor on the Indy Pass
Berkshire East, MA (~60 miles, 1.5 hours)
Travel by Plane
Closest Major Airport: BOS (Logan International Airport)
~150 miles South East, ~3 hrs
Closest Regional Airport: ABL (Albany International Airport)
- ~75 miles South West, ~90 minutes
Travel By Bus
Take the Stratton Jitney from NYC to Manchester
Travel by Car
We prefer to have a car here, its an easy drive from Greater NYC and Boston and most places have free parking
