The best ski trips near NYC

If the idea of spending hours in the car and missing that fresh morning powder fills you with dread, then this popular Jersey mountain’s location, just 47 miles from Manhattan, should make your snow bunny heart leap for joy. Book weekend trips through Sourced Adventures for $89 and up (no NYC Snow bus trips scheduled). Can also take the seasonal NJ Transit bus route. 200 Rte 94, Vernon, NJ (973-827-2000)

Another winner for those who hope for slopes without a serious commute, Thunder Ridge is only 50-some miles north of NYC. On weekends and holidays—including the whole week of Presidents’ Day—hop on the Metro North for a speedy, car-free trip and great package deal. Lift tickets start at $50 for afternoon and twilight skis on weekdays, $75 for an all-day ski pass on weekends. Ski rental starts at $41, The Metro North deal for transport, a lift ticket and a free shuttle is $98.75. 137 Birch Hill Rd, Patterson, NY (845-878-4100)

A favorite for New Yorkers looking to show off their skills, Hunter Mountain is the closest “big mountain” to the city and is well-known for its selection of jumps, boxes and rails for snowboarders and skiers, as well as its dozens of more traditional trails. Multiple bus lines will take New Yorkers on the three-hour voyage to the Catskills, including Urban Sherpa, which runs day trips for $161. 64 Klein Ave, Hunter, NY (518-263-4223)

Vermont is famous for having the best ski country on the East Coast, and Mount Snow is one of the reasons why. While this glorious resort, located in the gorgeous Green National Forest, is a bit far for a day trip (four hours), charter buses make it easy to navigate the terrain and save cash. Transit is now only available via Amtrak and Greyhound or we can suggest a longer getaway if you want to check into the resort. 39 Mount Snow Rd, West Dover, VT (800-245-7669)

Owned by New York State, the 47 trails at Belleayre Mountain resort in upstate New York are not only budget-friendly but also free of the crowds attracted to other more flashy mountains in the area. Of the bus companies that take New Yorkers to Belleayre, Adirondack Trailways has the most options. Belleayre Mountain Rd, Pine Hill, NY (845-254-5600)

Windham Mountain has all the fun of a big resort—an adventure park, various trails well-suited for different levels, multiple dining options—but the convenience of being less than three hours away from New York City. Urban Sherpa trips start at $69. Whee! 19 Resort Dr, Windham, NY (800-754-9463)