The ski resort of
KILLINGTON
, in the center of the Green Mountains halfway between Woodstock to the east and Rutland to the west, has grown out of nothing since 1957. Despite a permanent population of about 700, it's estimated that in season there are enough beds within twenty miles to accommodate over ten thousand people each night. The resort sprawls over six peaks and is especially good for beginners and intermediates (for skiing information, call 802/422-3333 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm).
In winter, the Killington Access Road up from US-4 is humming with crowded bars and restaurants; most of which close in summer, though you can still take the
gondola
(tel 802/422-3333; $13) up to the observation deck and cafeteria on the bleak summit. Hiking routes that meet here include the Long and Appalachian trails. The
Cortina Inn & Resort
(tel 802/773-3333 or 1-800/451-6108,
; $100-130) is one of several
inns
on Hwy-4 offering reduced summer rates; the quiet
Val Roc Motel
, out on Hwy-4 just after the junction with Hwy-100 S (tel 802/422-3881 or 1-800/238-8762,
; $50-75), is reasonably priced except during the busiest ski weekends.