Saratoga Springs is best known for summer racing and mineral springs, but winter here has its own rhythm. When the snow settles across the foothills, locals head in every direction for skiing and quiet mountain time. If you’re staying at The Ambler on South Broadway, you’re in an easy jumping off spot for several ski areas that deliver solid terrain, family friendly trails, and the kind of mellow winter energy upstate is known for.
This guide covers where to ski, how far each mountain is from downtown, and what to expect once you arrive.
About 25 minutes from downtown
West Mountain in Queensbury is the go to choice for a quick ski day. It’s small, easy to navigate, and popular with locals. Expect well groomed runs, night skiing, and a relaxed base lodge. This is the best option if you want to squeeze in a few hours on the slopes without committing to a full day.
What to expect:
About 55 minutes from downtown
Gore is the largest ski area within an hour of Saratoga Springs and offers a wide mix of terrain across multiple peaks. It’s a good fit for skiers who want longer runs, steady vertical, and more of a classic Adirondack mountain feel. On clear days, the views from the summit stretch across the High Peaks.
What to expect:
About 40 minutes from downtown
Willard is a small, friendly ski hill near Greenwich. It’s ideal for beginners, families, or anyone easing back into skiing after some time off. Locals love it for its simple layout and relaxed vibe.
What to expect:
Winter driving here is straightforward, but mornings can be icy. Most mountains open by 9 a.m., so leaving town around 8 gives you time to park, grab a coffee, and hit first chair.
If you’re staying at The Ambler, you can start your morning with the daily grab and go breakfast and complimentary in room coffee. The hotel’s contactless check in and central Broadway location make it simple to load up your gear and get moving without extra stops.
Snow tends to be most reliable from late December through early March. January brings the coldest temperatures, while February often delivers the best mix of snow quality and daylight.
West Mountain is about a 25 minute drive and is the closest option for downhill skiing.
Gore Mountain has the most challenging terrain in the region, including glades and steeper summit trails.
Yes. West Mountain offers night skiing, which makes it easy to fit in a few runs after work or after exploring downtown.
Both West Mountain and Willard Mountain are great for new skiers. Each has gentle terrain and reliable snowmaking.
Mid winter is the sweet spot. Conditions are usually strongest from mid January to late February.
Saratoga is close enough to the mountains for day trips but still offers a lively downtown to return to at night. After skiing, it’s easy to warm up with dinner along Broadway or unwind back at The Ambler’s outdoor lounge. Rooms keep things simple and comfortable, with high speed WiFi, smart TVs, and Beekman 1802 amenities for a low key end to a full day outside.
Whether you’re chasing first tracks, teaching kids their first turns, or just looking for a quick winter escape, skiing near Saratoga Springs is straightforward, scenic, and surprisingly varied for such an easy drive from town.
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