For many skiers, the more than 600 acres around this 4,120-foot peak hit the sweet spot: big-mountain feel, fewer crowds, and excellent snow near the town of Rangeley (pop 1,200) in the west of the state, 4½ hours from Boston and just over eight from New York City. Its 68 runs, plus glades offer a 2,000-ft. vertical and terrain that´s standout for advanced/expert skiers and snowboarders while still maintaining a friendly learning zone and the northeast´s most extensive beginner terrain, some four miles´ worth. Here, too, evenings in town are low-key and local—think cozy pubs and restaurants rather than a party village.

Read more in my post 5 of Maine´s Best Ski/Winter Resorts.

Saddleback Mountain