Best Dog-Friendly Ski Resorts in Vermont (2025)
❄️Ski Vermont with Your Best Friend
Vermont isn’t just for human skiers – it’s a winter wonderland for dogs too! These specially selected resorts offer:
✔️ On-site dog parks & trails
✔️ Pet-friendly lodging slopeside
✔️ Doggy daycare services
✔️ Special “après-ski” treats for pups
“Vermont leads the Northeast in pet-friendly ski accommodations, with over 60% of resorts now offering dog amenities” –
SKI Magazine
1. Stowe Mountain Lodge 🏆 BEST LUXURY EXPERIENCE
📍 Location: Stowe
🐕 Policy: Dogs <50 lbs, $50/night fee
🛏️ Perks:
- Plush dog beds & bowls provided
- 24/7 dog butler service
- Private forest trails from your suite
- “Yappy Hour” at the ski valet
Pro Tip: Book the “Paw & Powder Package” including doggie snow boots and a private guide to dog-friendly trails.
2. Killington Resort 🎿 MOST ACTIVITIES
📍 Location: Killington
🐕 Policy: No size restrictions, $35 fee
⛷️ Dog-Friendly Features:
- Doggy gondola rides (weekdays)
- Canine cross-country ski trails
- Indoor agility course
- Puppy cams in rooms
Winter Must-Do: Try “skijoring” (dog-powered skiing) on their dedicated 2-mile track!
3. Sugarbush Resort 🐾 BEST FOR SMALL DOGS
📍 Location: Warren
🐕 Policy: Dogs <25 lbs only, $25 fee
🏡 Unique Amenities:
- Heated dog patio at Allyn’s Lodge
- Gourmet room service dog menu
- Complimentary paw wax at check-in
- Tiny dog snow jackets to borrow
“Sugarbush’s small dog program sets the standard for boutique pet hospitality” – Condé Nast Traveler
4. Smugglers’ Notch 🧀 MOST VERMONT CHARM
📍 Location: Jeffersonville
🐕 Policy: All sizes welcome, $30 fee
🦴 Local Touches:
- Cheese-themed dog treats (Vermont cheddar!)
- Dog-sledding intro classes
- “Pup & Parent” snowshoe tours
- Cozy dog beds by every fireplace
5. Jay Peak Resort ❄️ BEST FOR SNOW LOVERS
📍 Location: Jay
🐕 Policy: No fees, must be leashed
🏔️ Winter Magic:
- Dog-friendly ice skating pond
- Snow maze just for pups
- Indoor water park (dog swim hours)
- 24/7 vet on call
Did You Know? Jay Peak gets the most natural snow in Vermont – perfect for snow-loving breeds!
6. Stratton Mountain 🏡 BEST CABIN OPTIONS
📍 Location: Stratton Mountain
🐕 Policy: 2 dogs max, $40/night
🛖 Cozy Features:
- Private dog yards at all cabins
- Dog boot dryers by entryways
- “Bark Rangers” trail program
- Pet portrait sessions available
7. Okemo Mountain 🍖 BEST DINING OPTIONS
📍 Location: Ludlow
🐕 Policy: Leashed in village, $25 fee
🍽️ Foodie Perks:
- 7 restaurants with dog menus
- “Pup Cakes” at the base lodge
- Barkery with homemade treats
- Meat fondue for dogs (weekends)
🐾 Essential Tips for Skiing with Dogs
- Paw Protection: Use musher’s wax or booties
- Hydration: Snow isn’t enough – bring water
- Breaks: Limit outdoor time in <20°F weather
- Gear: Reflective vests for night walks
- Training: Teach “wait” at chairlifts
Local Insight: Vermont requires proof of rabies vaccination at all pet-friendly lodging.
❄️ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are dogs allowed on Vermont ski slopes? 🎿
Answer: While dogs aren’t permitted on downhill ski trails at any Vermont resort, most properties like Killington and Jay Peak offer dedicated dog-friendly cross-country trails and snowshoe paths adjacent to the main slopes.
2. Which resort has the best accommodations for large dogs? 🐕🦺
Answer: Smugglers’ Notch and Jay Peak welcome dogs of all sizes without restrictions, while Stowe Mountain Lodge has luxury suites specifically designed for larger breeds with orthopedic pet beds.
3. Do Vermont ski resorts charge pet fees? 💰
Answer: Most charge $25-$50 per night, except Jay Peak which has no pet fee. The fees typically include amenities like dog beds, bowls, and treats. Always ask about package deals – Stowe’s “Paw & Powder” package includes the fee in the room rate.
4. Can I leave my dog alone in the room? 🚪
Answer: Policies vary – Stratton Mountain allows crated dogs alone for up to 4 hours, while Stowe offers 24/7 dog butler service for when you’re on the slopes. Most resorts recommend using their on-site daycare services instead.
5. What winter gear should I bring for my dog? 🧤
Answer: Essential items include:
- Insulated dog boots (available to borrow at Sugarbush)
- Waterproof jacket (especially for short-haired breeds)
- Musher’s wax for paw protection
- Collapsible water bowl (snow isn’t sufficient hydration)
6. Are there dog-friendly après-ski options? 🍖
Answer: Absolutely! Okemo Mountain leads with seven restaurants offering dog menus, while Stowe’s “Yappy Hour” features special pup cocktails (non-alcoholic of course). Most Vermont resorts now have at least one pet-friendly dining option.
7. Which resort is best for first-time ski dogs? 🐾
Answer: Stratton Mountain is ideal for beginners with its gentle “Bark Rangers” program and enclosed dog parks. Smugglers’ Notch also offers introductory dog-sledding classes perfect for building snow confidence.
📊 Vermont Dog Ski Resort Comparison
| 🏔️ Resort | 📍 Location | 💰 Pet Fee | 🐕 Size Policy | 🌟 Top Dog Amenity | 🎿 Human Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Stowe Mountain | Stowe | $50 | <50 lbs | 24/7 Dog Butler | Luxury Spa |
| ⛷️ Killington | Killington | $35 | Any | Skijoring Trails | Most Terrain |
| 🐕 Sugarbush | Warren | $25 | <25 lbs | Gourmet Room Service | Boutique Vibe |
| 🧀 Smugglers’ | Jeffersonville | $30 | Any | Cheese Treats | Family Programs |
| ❄️ Jay Peak | Jay | FREE | Any | Snow Maze | Most Snowfall |
| 🏡 Stratton | Stratton Mtn | $40 | 2 max | Private Dog Yards | Village Charm |
| 🍖 Okemo | Ludlow | $25 | Any | Dog Fondue | Best Dining |
📢 Ready for Winter Adventures?
Book your dog-friendly ski getaway today! Most resorts open reservations 11 months in advance. Tag your snowy pup photos with #VTPowderPups for a chance to be featured by Vermont Tourism!