Ludlow

Ski Areas

Okemo Mountain Resort. Family-owned since 1982 and still run by Tim and Diane Mueller, Okemo Mountain Resort has evolved into a major year-round resort, now with two base areas. Known for its wide, well-groomed trails, it's a favorite among intermediates.

At 2,200 feet, Okemo has the highest vertical drop of any resort in southern Vermont. The beginner trails extend above both base areas, with more challenging terrain higher on the mountains. Intermediate trails are the theme here, but experts will find steep trails and glades at Jackson Gore and on the South Face. Of the 113 trails, 36% have an intermediate rating, 32% are rated novice, and 32% are rated for experts. They are served by an efficient system of 24 lifts, including nine quads, three triple chairlifts, and six surface lifts; 95% of the trails are covered by snowmaking. Okemo has four terrain parks for skiers and snowboarders, including one for beginners; two 400-foot-long Superpipes, and a mini half-pipe. For cross-country skiing, the Okemo Valley Nordic Center has 14 miles of groomed cross-country trails and 8 miles of decicated snowshoe trails and rents equipment.

If you're looking for non-snow-related activities, you can play basketball and tennis at the Ice House next to Jackson Gore Inn or perfect your swing at the 18-hole, par-70, 6,400-yard, Heathland-style course at the Okemo Valley Golf Club. Seven target greens, four outdoor putting greens, a golf academy, an indoor putting green, swing stations, and a simulator provide plenty of ways to improve your game year-round.

Jackson Gore, a second base village north of Ludlow off Route 103, has an inn, restaurants, a child-care center, and shops. The resort offers numerous ski and snowboarding packages. There's also ice skating at the Ice House, a covered, open-air rink open 10-9 daily in the winter. The Spring House, next to the entrance of Jackson Gore Inn, has a great kids' pool with slides, a racquetball court, fitness center, and sauna. The yoga and Pilates studio has classes a few times a week. A day pass is $14. 77 Okemo Ridge Rd., Ludlow, VT, 05149. 802/228-4041; 802/228-5222 snow conditions; 800/786-5366 lodging. www.okemo.com.

The newer, off-site 9-hole Tater Hill Golf Course has a pro shop, putting green, and a driving range. 6802 Popple Dungeon Rd., Windham, 22 mi south of Ludlow. 802/875-2517.