Tucked away in the Okemo Valley of South-Central Vermont is a venerable ski area that has welcomed generations of skiers and snowboarders, and feels a world away from the bigger, busier ski resorts of New England. Magic Mountain in Londonderry was started in 1960 by renowned Swiss ski instructor Hans Thorner. Thorner, who chose the mountain as an ideal ski venue due to its similarity to his home terrain, designed many of Magic’s signature runs. As Magic Mountain president Geoff Hatheway explains in this short film, the mountain’s loyal following has endured over the decades, and it remains a great destination for families and those looking to hone their ski and snowboarding skills.

With a summit elevation of 2,850 feet and a vertical drop of 1,500 feet, Magic features 39 trails comprising mellow runs, steeps, black diamonds, and numerous glades. Plus, it remains one of the best mountains for tree skiing in Vermont. There’s also a terrain park, night skiing, a lodge with bar and snacks, ski and snowboard rentals, an on-slope snack bar, and a beginner’s slope with “magic carpet” conveyor belt. The vibe at magic Mountain is laidback and the slopes are rarely crowded. Snow-making covers 50 percent of the trails.

Lessons and rentals are available, and the base lodge features a bar and restaurant.