Everyone knows Killington, Vermont, is famous for skiing, but did you know that Killington is also a world-class summer destination? You just can’t beat a great summer day in Vermont, and the Killington area has so many options, from adventurous to relaxing, we know you’ll find something for everyone. Summer in Vermont tends to be hot and humid, but thanks to our altitude, we have temps that are typically 10+° F lower than the temps in the valleys, and we also enjoy lower levels of humidity.
Adventure and Thrills
If you like action and adventure, you could spend your entire vacation at the Killington Resort Adventure Center. There’s no shortage of exciting things to do at the Adventure Center. Riders control their speed, making it great for both speed-chasers and those who prefer a scenic ride. The Snowshed Adventure Center offers fun for all ages, with exciting rides - Zip Line Racer, Skye Ropes Course, the WreckTangle, Soaring Eagle, Trampoline Jump, and Amaze'n Maze- in the beautiful Vermont outdoors. The Adventure Center is open Saturday and Sunday in the late spring and fall, and Thursday to Monday during summer and most of the fall. The hiking trails, wellness walking path, Downpour Derby and Kids Playground are free, but the rides require buying (transferrable) tickets or day-passes online in advance.
Killington Adventure Center Highlights:
- Soaring Eagle Zip Line: Soar side-by-side with a friend or family member on this seated zip line that launches you from Snowshed Slope all the way across Snowshed Pond. Race to the bottom and see who wins!
- Skye Ropes Course: With several levels of difficulty, this aerial course includes 42 obstacles across bridges, tightropes, and ladders. Harnessed and safe for kids and teens, this four-story course is one for the books.
- Trampoline Jump: Kids can catch serious air while safely harnessed into this bungee-style trampoline setup.
- Climbing Wall: Great for young climbers to test their strength and agility.
- Amaze’n Maze: Do your best not to get lost inside this 5,000 square foot structure of dead ends, sharp turns, and trick passageways. Don’t forget to grab your Maze Passport from the Snowshed Lodge before you begin!
Tips for Visiting the Killington Adventure Center
- Buy tickets online in advance so the facility can collect your electronic waiver.
- The latest you can purchase an activity or attraction ticket is day-of, 30 minutes prior to closing time.
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes if your kids plan to try the ropes course or zip line.
- Check height and age restrictions ahead of time to make sure your little ones can ride.
- Bring sunscreen and water; you’ll be spending a lot of time outside.
When it comes to Killington summer activities, nothing beats a day at the Adventure Center. Whether you're racing down the Beast Mountain Coaster or hiking trails with a view, the area offers the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation for families.
Killington Resort is also home to New England’s fastest-growing downhill mountain bike park, featuring over 30 miles of trails served by three high-speed lifts. With over $5 million in bike park upgrades, Killington’s downhill biking has become a worldwide destination. The heart of this sport is the Killington Bike Park, which operates from late spring through early fall.
The Killington Bike Park features three high-speed lifts serving over 30 miles of trails. From beginner to expert and classic New England single-track to Gravity Logic's signature flow trails, Killington Bike Park has terrain suitable for everyone.
Read also: Vermont Getaway Hotels
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking & Backpacking
Enjoy some of the greatest views in Vermont. From 4,000-foot peaks to Green Mountain National Forest, the Killington area has hiking for beginners to advanced backpackers. Vermont’s mountains are great for hiking, and the Killington area has lots of options.
Where to Go
The Appalachian Trail and Long Trail run right through Killington. There are also lots of great day hikes including Thundering Brook Falls, Deer Leap and others. Experience this 12.1-mile out-and-back trail near Killington, Vermont. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 6 h 46 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, camping, and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Check out this 0.5-mile out-and-back trail near Killington, Vermont. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 11 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are March through October. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Gifford Woods State Park - located at the base of Killington and Pico peaks, Gifford Woods State Park includes one the few remaining old-growth hardwood tree stands in Vermont. Popular with through and day hikers alike, Gifford Woods offers a variety of easy to moderate hiking trails, as well as more challenging trails that take you to the Appalachian Trail. Other notable hiking opportunities nearby include Coolidge State Park (offers a variety of trails), Sherburne Pass Trail to Pico Peak (a more challenging climb), and Killington Peak Loop (moderate). Explore the beautiful Green Mountains and experience stunning views, lush forests, and diverse terrain. Hiking to Killington Peak is another excellent thing to do in the Vermont summer. The trailhead is accessible via the Killington Resort gondola, making it a bit easier to reach the summit. From the top, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Before heading out, it's a good idea to obtain trail maps and information from local visitor centers, the Green Mountain Club (which maintains the Long Trail), or online resources. Trail conditions can change, so it's essential to be well-prepared with the latest information. Practice Leave No Trace principles, carry essential gear (including plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing), and let someone know your hiking plans.
Hiking Gear Shopping
Patagonia, Black Diamond, Darn Tough - find what you need at our local shops.
Read also: The Story of Highline Lodge
Guides
Let the expert lead as you hike to beautiful scenic outlooks.
5 Top-Rated Hiking Trails in Vermont | US Hike Guide
Road & Gravel Biking
Enjoy scenic rides through historic areas along paved or gravel roads. Each year Killington plays host to a stage race - a favorite among riders. Utilize the variety of routes available for all types of riders. In addition to Killington’s downhill mountain bike park, the Killington valley is home to loads of great mountain and road cycling options. There’s arguably no better way to take in the wide variety of scenery and landscapes in the Killington, Vermont area than to ride a bike along the roadways! Whether you’re looking for mountain vistas or farmland, you’re sure to find a beautiful view around every corner.
Where to Go
Routes 100, 100A and 4 extend through idyllic pastures, over rolling hills and up mountains. The unpaved packed dirt roads and gravel paths offer many opportunities to explore Vermont. The Green Mountain Trails are a multiuse network of flowy single-track over varied terrain in Pittsfield and Stockbridge, Vermont eight miles North of Killington. Mountain bike, trail run, hike, snow shoe on some 25 miles of stellar trails. Flowing Trails currently include 4.5 miles of multi-use beginner and intermediate terrain with expansion planned. The Killington Mountain Bike Club is a chapter of the Vermont Mountain Bike. Great features with ride-a-rounds make this a very versatile spot for riders of all abilities.
Boating, Kayaking, & Paddle Boarding
Pristine lakes abound. From reservoirs to ponds, the choice is yours. Most of our local waterways to not accommodate motorized boats, leaving you able to take in the peaceful atmosphere all times of the day. This is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Vermont while relaxing on the water! Fun for all ages.
Where to go
Chittenden Reservoir, Kent Pond, Woodward Reservoir, Colton Pond, just to name a few of your many choices.
Read also: Killington Resort Updates
Get Rental Gear
Rent paddle boards, kayaks or boats right at the water, or connect with a local shop to get your boat delivered at a specific time. Interested in buying? Connect with a local mom-and-pop retailer to purchase the kayak or paddleboard perfect for you.
Guide
Explore rivers and lakes with an experienced local guide.
Fishing
Vermont takes great pride in the quality of fishing throughout the state. Whether you’re fly fishing, open reel or closed, our lakes and streams are well stocked with trout, largemouth bass, yellow perch, and more.
Where to Go
Kent Pond, Colton Pond, the Ottauquechee River - take your pick. Please remember that the State of Vermont requires fishers acquire a license.
Golfing & Tennis
From fairway to backhand Killington boasts 2 18-hole golf courses as well as several options for tennis, both clay and hard surface.
Vermont golf courses, golf vacations, public courses and country clubs are world famous-and the scenery has more than once been accused of breaking one’s concentration. There is no finer place to enjoy the game than Green Mountain National Golf Course. What separates us from others are the unique and Tee up at one of Killington’s two great golf courses challenging design features. High in the lush Green Mountains of Vermont, discover breathtaking panoramas, azure skies and an 18-hole championship course as exhilarating as the view. Geoffrey Cornish designed this course to take full advantage of the awe-inspiring mountain terrain.
ATVing
Let the excitement begin! Strap yourself into a custom ATV/UTV and check out the back country of Vermont or bring your own and explore the beauty of our area. Of course, the very best summer activity in Killington is an ATV tour with ATV Vermont! (We might, just might, be a little biased, but seriously… it’s a LOT of fun!) Experience the thrill of driving our new Polaris Razor ATVs and see some breathtaking mountain views along the way! Our guides are ready to make sure you have an amazing adventure with us, so go ahead and book your ATV tour today - then you can come back here and see what else the Killington area has to offer to make your Vermont summer vacation epic. Two Hour Mountain ATV Tour.
Where to Go
1,700 miles of Class 4 highways and trails in Vermont is perfect for exploring on your own. Or join a guided tour of the Killington Mountains.
Go on Tour
If you can drive a car you can drive an ATV. No shifting required!
Relaxation and Wellness
When you’ve had your fill of adventure, Killington Resort also offers an amazing day spa for ultimate relaxation.
- Killington Grand Spa: Unwind and rejuvenate at the Killington Grand Spa, offering a range of luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and more.
- The Spa at the Woods: Various spa treatments offer relaxation and stress relief in a therapeutic sanctuary for both the body and the mind.
Sightseeing and Events
Between nature, state parks, historic places, and cities and towns around the Killington Pico area, there is much sightseeing to be done in the summer. Killington is always buzzing with activity. The city sponsors golf tournaments, wine, beer and cider festivals, and rad athletic events like skiing demos and competitions, and, of course, the Spartan Race. This makes for many things to do in Killington, VT in the summer and throughout the year. There are a ton of skiing and snowboarding events and competitions that are fun and thrilling to watch, even for non-skiers and snowboarders. Regular events include demo shows like Test Fest, when regular joes like you can test out the latest snow gear for free. The annual weekend event celebrates the history of Killington and showcases the newest talents in snow sports. There are fireworks, parades, movie screenings, the Friday night bib draw featuring top athletes, and live music. The Cup is a stop along the Audi FIS Ski World Cup Tour.
Where to Go
Go see the murals in Rutland, or some of the covered bridges in the area.
Bonus Summer Activities Near the Adventure Center
In addition to the big-ticket rides, the Killington area offers hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and scenic gondola rides during the summer months. In fact, your Adventure Day Pass includes unlimited use of many of these attractions!
Scenic Drives
Any drive in this part of Vermont is a scenic one, and there are destinations and attractions a little off the beaten path that are well worth the effort.
- Scenic Route 100 Byway: Also known as “Vermont’s Main Street” and “The Skier’s Highway,” Route 100’s 146 miles connects some of the best Northeastern skiing and riding, including Stowe and Waterbury and running all the way down to West Dover.
Where to Stay Near the Adventure Center
If you’re visiting Killington for summer fun, location matters, and our Highridge Condominiums are just six minutes from the Adventure Center. These family-friendly condos offer everything you need for a relaxing home base between adventures:
- Community Indoor Pool and Outdoor Hot Tub for after-park relaxation
- Fully equipped kitchens for easy meals and snacks between outings
- Proximity to Killington Golf Club, perfect for an early tee time or an afternoon on the greens
- Community Game Room to keep the fun going when you return home for the day
Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a full week, staying close to the action makes it easier to enjoy all the fun the Killington Adventure Center has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Killington Adventure Center
- What are the Killington Adventure Center ticket prices? Ticket prices are dynamic and prices depend on how far in advance you purchase and the day of the week you plan to visit. The best value is the Adventure Day Pass, which gives you access to most attractions for one set price. Prices are updated annually, so check Killington.com for current rates.
- Can I ride the gondola with my Adventure Center pass? Yes! A lift ticket is included with your Adventure Day Pass. It’s valid for the K-1 Gondola.
- Is the Killington Adventure Center good for little kids? Yes. While some activities have height and age restrictions, there are options for all ages, including a kids’ play area, climbing wall, and the Roaring Brook Mining operation, where you can mine for gold and gems.
Plan Your Family Adventure Today
Book your stay with Killington Rental Associates to enjoy easy access to the Adventure Center, spacious accommodations, and all the comforts of home.
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