The East Coast of the United States may not have the towering mountains and deep snowpacks of the West, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t quality powder skiing to be had. East Coast ski areas have a charm all their own and can offer surprisingly good powder days if you know where to look. Here’s a list of some of the top spots for powder hounds seeking the best ski areas on the East Coast.

1. Jay Peak, Vermont

Bordering Canada, Jay Peak is often cited as the East Coast’s powder mecca due to the “Jay Cloud” phenomenon that seems to bring in more snow than neighboring resorts. With an average annual snowfall of about 350 inches, it boasts a wide range of terrain including glades, chutes, and open bowls.

2. Sugarloaf, Maine

Sugarloaf in Maine offers expansive terrain and has been known to get storms that dump significant amounts of snow onto its steeps and glades. It has the only lift-served skiing above treeline in the East, making for some incredible off-piste opportunities when the powder falls.

3. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe gets its share of fresh snow averaging around 300 inches annually. The resort’s high elevation and its location near Mount Mansfield—the highest peak in Vermont—contribute to its reliable powder dumps. Stowe’s Front Four trails are legendary on a powder day.

4. Mad River Glen, Vermont

Famous for its slogan “Ski it if you can,” Mad River Glen is a favorite among expert skiers looking for natural, challenging terrain and fresh snow. While its snow totals may be slightly less, when conditions align, MRG offers some of the most authentic powder skiing experiences on the coast.

5. Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont

Nestled close to Stowe but with a much different vibe, Smugglers’ Notch is favored by locals for its quieter slopes and great tree skiing opportunities. Its topography catches storms just right to allow plenty of fresh flakes to settle in.

6. Killington, Vermont

Killington is known for having one of the longest ski seasons on the East Coast but also enjoys generous amounts of soft snow throughout the winter months. Its diverse terrain across six mountains includes several spots well-loved by powder enthusiasts.

7. Whiteface Mountain, New York

Home to the greatest vertical drop in the East and host to numerous Olympic events over the years, Whiteface near Lake Placid gets blanketed with lake-effect snow that can make for epic conditions. The Slides at Whiteface (when open) offer some serious big mountain skiing.

8. Sunday River, Maine

With eight peaks and plenty of hidden stashes throughout its boundary-expanding terrain parks and gladed areas, Sunday River has ample opportunity for fresh tracks after a storm.

9. Sugarbush, Vermont

Sugarbush receives a healthy dose of natural snowfall annually that complements its varied terrain including wide-open groomers transitioning into playful glades where powder can linger days after a storm.

When searching for powder on the East Coast it’s important to stay tuned into weather reports as stormy patterns can surprise even the most experienced skiers with bouts of fluffy snow overnight. Each ski area possesses unique qualities making them preferred destinations for those enthusiastic about chasing their next powder day down Eastern slopes.