Pico Mountain Ski Area | Rutland

Information

Landmark: Pico Mountain Ski Area
City: Rutland
Country: USA Vermont
Continent: North America

Pico Mountain Ski Area, Rutland, USA Vermont, North America

Pico Mountain Ski Area is a ski resort located in Rutland, Vermont, USA.

It is situated on the western slope of Pico Peak.

Visual Characteristics

Pico Mountain features a skiable vertical drop of 2,100 feet. The terrain is characterized by a mix of open slopes and wooded areas. The base lodge is constructed primarily of wood and stone.

Location & Access Logistics

Pico Mountain Ski Area is located 7 miles east of Rutland, Vermont, off US Route 4. Access is directly from US Route 4. Ample parking is available at the base area. The closest public transportation is the Green Mountain Transit bus service, which has limited stops near the intersection of US Route 4 and Pico Road.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Pico Peak was first developed for skiing in 1937 by the Central Vermont Railway. The area was established to promote rail travel during the winter months. The mountain is part of the Green Mountains range, characterized by metamorphic rock formations.

Key Highlights & Activities

Skiing and snowboarding are the primary activities. The resort offers 58 trails covering 350 acres of skiable terrain. Snowshoeing trails are also available. Lessons are offered for various skill levels.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in the base lodge. Limited shaded areas are present on some trails. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available at the base area and on some higher elevations. Food and beverage services are provided within the base lodge.

Best Time to Visit

The ski season typically runs from late November to early April, dependent on snowfall. Weekdays generally offer fewer crowds than weekends. Early morning provides the best light for photography on the eastern-facing slopes.

Facts & Legends

Pico Mountain was once owned by the family of Olympic skier Andrea Mead Lawrence, who won two gold medals in the 1952 Winter Olympics. A local anecdote suggests that the mountain's name originates from the Italian word for "peak."