Ski season has arrived! And with it, the large crowds often found at bigger resorts. Maybe you prefer less crowded venues, or perhaps you’re a ski newbie who gets a little intimidated by the bigger areas. No worries! The Upper Valley has several small ski areas just right for you and your family and friends!

Find big-mountain challenges in a family-friendly setting. Nearly 100 Dartmouth All-Americans and more than 30 national champions call this their ski home. The area offers more than 100 skiable acres spread over two mountains, with something fun for everyone: a 968-foot vertical drop, a full-service day lodge, superb grooming, and exciting terrain features. 

Visit the website (www.dartmouth.edu/~skiway/) for rates and snow conditions.  

Originally founded in 1955 by Olympic Nordic Jumper Ernie Dion, Whaleback is a nonprofit, community-supported ski and snowboard area. The area has 4 lifts, boasts 30 trails with a 700-foot elevation, and a nostalgic New England mountain feel. Plus, Whaleback is the only night-skiing option in the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee region. There is also a professionally staffed ski school, the Whaleback Pub and Cafe, and a rental shop. 

Visit www.whaleback.com for more information.

One of the oldest in the United States, Suicide Six has operated for 82 consecutive years. This ski area is a part of the Woodstock Inn & Resort. It has a 30 percent beginner, 40 percent intermediate, and 30 percent advanced slope rating, so there’s a trail for just about any level of skiing ability. 

Go to www.woodstockinn.com/ski-area for details.

This ski area near both I-89 and I-91 offers 66 trails and slopes covering 233 skiable acres (18 miles of terrain). There are 17 easier trails, 32 trails that are more difficult, and 17 trails that are described as the most difficult. There are also 4 terrain parks, 4 mogul runs, and 9 glades.
 

Get more details at www.mountsunapee.com.