Windham Mountain

With a 1600-foot vertical drop and 12 miles of trails, Windham Mountain is one of the biggest ski areas close to NYC. The beginner package includes lift ticket, rental and a 1-hour and 45-minute lesson, and is available to all skiers ages 10 and older—that includes you, parents. There is also ski school for younger mountaineers ages 4-9 that includes lift ticket, rental and 2-hours and 30-minutes of instruction ($117). Skiing's not your thing? Try the tubing park, or nurse a warm cup of cocoa in the lodge. A free shuttle connects the ski area to the picturesque village of Windham, where you will find comfy hotels and cozy restaurants. Who needs the Alps when you have the Catskills?