New York is home to one of the world's most famous cities, a diverse landscape, and some famous landmarks, but you probably wouldn't guess that it's also home to the most ski resorts in the United States. It's actually the number of states. But New York is home to 52 ski resorts of all shapes and sizes that proudly wear that badge of honor.
From the Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains to the Adirondack Mountains and western Chautauqua-Allegheny region, much of New York State's 54,555 square miles is transformed into a winter wonderland for several months. Thanks to lake-effect snow, the Empire State has some of the highest snowfall in the nation.
From famous resorts to small, secluded community ski areas and Nordic trails, there are ski and snowboard areas for every skill level.
Whiteface Mountain, Adirondack Mountains

Tess Johnson fails a jump during the Freestyle World Cup moguls competition at Whiteface Mountain. Photo by Mel Evans/AP
Ski like an Olympian at Whiteface, one of New York State's most famous mountains. This gigantic town nestled in the Adirondack Mountains just north of Lake Placid became famous for hosting the Olympic Games not just once, but twice (1932 and 1980). Whiteface Mountain was used as a ski competition venue in late winter. It also has the highest elevation east of the Rocky Mountains at 3,430 feet above sea level.
With a total of 96 trails spanning over 40 miles and three peaks, this mountain caters to beginners to advanced skiers and riders. But it is best known for its challenging running and as a training ground for medal-winning athletes. Nicknamed “Ice Face” for its notorious icy conditions, this place is also a classic East Coast ski area.
Ski season in the northern Adirondacks is long. In Whiteface, it lasted until early May.
Mount Plattekill, Catskill Mountains

Skiers and snowboarders gathered under the chairlift on Mount Plattekill. Photo by Kyle Tunis, Shutterstock
Family-run Plattekill Mountain in the western Catskills is one of four mountains in the region, but it has an old-world charm unlike any other island. The mountain has an all-around appeal for families, beginners, and even experts looking to tackle the exhilarating black diamond course. However, this resort is only open from Friday to Sunday and public holidays, so it's more for weekend lovers.
With the new addition of “Whiskey's Way,” Plattekill now has 41 trails this season, with the highest elevation being 1,100 feet. Why not go out on the slopes on weekdays? No problem. You can even rent an entire mountain and hit the trails with just your favorite ski and board buddies. Whether you're visiting Plattekill Mountain in public or private, you'll enjoy The Blockbuster Bar on site. Plan ahead and be sure to visit on select Saturdays when you can sample local beers during your brewery visit.
(Related: The best places in the world to go see snow.)
Holiday Valley, Chautauqua Allegheny

A man in a yellow coat with skis in a forest valley Photo provided by: NYS Department of Economic Development (NYSDED)
A popular spot for skiing, snowboarding, and other recreation in Western New York is Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, just south of Buffalo. It is also one of the countries that benefits from abundant snowfall due to the lake effect. Opened in 1958 by a trio of friends selling stock from a card table in a parking lot, Holiday Valley had humble beginnings with four ramps and a T-bar.
Today, the mountain offers 60 trails with 13 lifts, 750 feet of elevation, three base lodges, and numerous amenities, including a golf course and a mountain coaster. Lessons, night skiing, cross-country skiing, tubing, snowshoeing and more are also offered, making it a well-rounded ski area for everyone, with a wide range of trails to suit all skill levels.
In addition to enjoying après-ski activities at the on-site lodge, Ellicottville is also worth a stop for live music.
Oak Mountain, Adirondacks

Skiers take to the hills at Oak Mountain Ski Center in Speculator, New York. Photo by Mark Diorio/Observer-Dispatch/AP
Located in the charming town of Speculator, Oak Mountain has been a winter playground since 1948. With 22 trails, 4 lifts, 650 feet of elevation, and snowshoeing and tubing, this small home mountain stands approximately 120 inches tall. amount of snow per year. Typically open Friday through Sunday, Oak Mountain is also a destination that groups can rent out privately for the holidays.
Held each March at the end of the season, the “pond skimming'' event involves costumed competitors racing down ski slopes across frigid ponds, and many people come out for a day of fun. We will gather. The more ridiculous the better. Trophies will be awarded in various categories such as “Best Splash” and “Best Costume.”
Woods Valley Ski Area, Central New York

People on the slope under the ski lift in the snow. Photo by Lauren Breedlove
Ski, snowboard, or tube into the night at Woods Valley Ski Area in Westernville, New York. With an extensive live music schedule, the lodge hosts après-ski entertainment multiple times per week. Opened in 1964, Woods Valley Ski Area has come a long way since owner Dave Woods groomed it by hand with homemade rollers.
Currently, 21 trails and 500 feet of elevated trails serve as winter playgrounds for the area. Additionally, the amazing Rabbit Hill in the Learning Zone with its beginner-friendly 'Wonder Carpet' is a huge hit with families. From the top, skiers and boarders can enjoy views of Delta Lake in the nearby state park. When you're done skiing or between runs, stop by the lodge for drinks and music in Tap Room 46. You'll be banging your boots in no time.
Mt Peter, Hudson Valley
Mount Peter, the state's oldest operating ski area, had a far from ordinary start. Inspired by fashion, Mount Peter was created by Macy's in 1936 as a marketing strategy to spark a passion for winter and sell ski wear.
Today, Mount Peter is still going strong and is one of the few family-owned ski areas in the state. Just an hour's drive north of Manhattan, it's an easy ski destination for city dwellers, and a free ski and snowboard school makes it an ideal destination for beginners.
Ski or snowboard on 13 groomed trails, including 400 feet of drop, or try your hand at 600 feet of tubing. After skiing, warm up with a bowl of famous chili at Pete's Pub and toast a fun-filled day with a beer.
(Related: Want to learn how to ski? Let an Olympic athlete teach you.)