Top 5 Flexes at the Ski Resort

by Chelsea Nye

Advice for new skiers and snowboarders from a lifelong diehard

There is learning how to link turns and then there is learning how to ski or ride like you belong.
If you are new to the mountain scene these are not lessons you will hear in ski school but they will instantly level up your day and your credibility. Think of this as your quiet guide from someone who has chased first chair and last call for years.

1. Get to the resort early

Earlier than you think.

If you have rentals arriving early is essential. Fewer people means faster fittings less chaos and more time actually getting in turns. But the real payoff is on snow.

Before 10 AM is prime time:

Fewer crowds
Shorter lift lines
Fresh stashes if it snowed overnight
Smooth untouched corduroy

Bonus flex is parking. Many resorts have multiple lots and the earlier you arrive the better your chances of scoring premium parking. Sometimes you can even skip the shuttle and walk straight to the base area which feels like a small but meaningful win.

2. Research on mountain dining before you go

Base lodges are convenient but rarely the best option.

Spend a few minutes researching on mountain dining options ahead of time. Many resorts hide legit food spots mid mountain or tucked into quieter zones. At Killington for example the Jerk Shack near the Needles Eye area is worth the effort. Jamaican inspired food fried plantains and it is one of the few places on the mountain that offers rosé.

If you do end up in a main lodge during peak lunch hours do this first.
Secure seating before you grab food. Take a look around see who might be wrapping up and politely ask if they are leaving soon. A little awkward hovering is completely acceptable. It beats wandering with a tray of food while it gets cold and every table is taken.

If you want to save money because resort pricing adds up fast pack a lunch. Most resorts offer free hot water so you can still enjoy a hot meal like Cup O Noodles. Many mountains also have bag check or storage areas where you can stash a cooler full of snacks and pocket the savings for après.

3. Check out the après scene

Après is not one size fits all.

Before your trip search Reddit or your platform of choice to see where the best après vibes actually are. Not every mountain town is the same but there is always something worth finding whether it is a dive bar a loud party spot or a low key local hangout.

Around Killington one favorite local spot is Clear River Tavern in Pittsfield Vermont about a fifteen minute drive from the access road. Pool tables plenty of seating local musicians and an old school Vermont feel. Finding a place like this is a flex because it shows you went beyond the obvious.

4. Do not leave your gear unattended

Not glamorous but important.

There has unfortunately been an uptick in ski and snowboard theft and gear prices are no joke. Busy base areas make easy targets.

Play it smart:

Use a ski or snowboard cable lock
Place your gear away from high traffic racks
Avoid entrances and exits

Local tip for skiers. Separate your skis. Put one ski on one rack and the other somewhere else. It sounds ridiculous but it works. Thieves are looking for quick pairs not a scavenger hunt.

5. Know where not to stop

The biggest flex of all.

Always be aware of where you stop on the hill. Do not stop:

In the middle of a trail
At intersections
At lift gates while on your phone
On off load ramps
In front of turnstiles
At tunnel exits

If it is a high traffic zone keep it moving.

Stopping in these places is not only frustrating for others it is dangerous. Pull off to the side stay visible and let the mountain flow. People notice this more than you think.