If you’re new to skiing or introducing your kids to the slopes, Mount Snow in West Dover, Vermont is one of the most beginner-friendly resorts in New England. With gentle terrain, wide trails, and lifts designed to get you up and gliding quickly, it’s the perfect mountain to build confidence — and it’s just minutes from Valley View Villa.
🗻 Morning: Start Easy at the Discovery and Sundance Zones
Kick off your day at the Discovery Center, located right at the main base. Here, the Launch Pad magic carpet lift is ideal for first-timers who’ve never strapped into skis before. You can book a group or private lesson to learn the basics of stopping, turning, and riding the lift.
Once you’re ready to explore, head to the Sundance side of the mountain. The Tumbleweed and Long John trails are two of the most popular green runs — both long, winding, and scenic, with plenty of room to practice wide turns. The Sundance Express lift will get you back up for another easy run without the steeper pitches found on the main face.
🚡 Midday: Ride the Bluebird Express to the Summit
Even beginners can enjoy the thrill of reaching the top! The Bluebird Express, Mount Snow’s signature bubble lift, takes you all the way to the summit with cozy wind protection and panoramic views of the Green Mountains. From there, take Ridge or Deer Run, two of the longest green trails in Vermont, that meander gently down from the top. You’ll feel like you’re gliding forever — a huge confidence boost for new skiers.
🍽 Summit Stop: Warm up inside The Bullwheel, the cozy restaurant at the summit lodge, where you can sip hot cocoa or enjoy hearty soups while soaking in sweeping views of the valley below.
🍔 Afternoon: Refuel and Relax
For lunch, head back to the Main Base Lodge where you’ll find Caffè 802 for sandwiches, chili, and local craft beers. Or, if you’d rather dine off-mountain, make the short 5-minute drive to Sawmill Bar & Table or Trail 87 in West Dover — two local favorites with great food and warm, family-friendly atmospheres.
After lunch, glide over to the Canyon Express lift for a few more mellow laps on Ego Alley or Cooper’s Junction, great choices for beginners ready to build a bit more confidence before calling it a day.
❄️ Après-Ski: Hot Cocoa & Hot Tub Time
When your legs are ready for a rest, head back to Valley View Villa, just 5–10 minutes away. Soak in the outdoor hot tub, watch the sunset over the private pond, and relive your day conquering Mount Snow’s green trails. It’s the perfect Vermont après-ski experience.
🧭 Tips for a Smooth Day
✅ Arrive early (by 8:30 a.m.) to park close and beat lift lines
🎟 Buy lift tickets online ahead of time for discounts
🎿 Rent gear right at the Discovery Center to save carrying hassles
🍩 Grab breakfast at Sticky Fingers Bakery on Route 100 — their cinnamon rolls are famous
📸 Wrap-Up
Skiing Mount Snow’s green trails is all about fun, confidence, and family time. From the forgiving slopes of Sundance to the scenic summit runs off Bluebird Express, it’s a perfect day for every beginner skier — and even better when your home base is Valley View Villa.
