Mount Southington, Plantsville, Connecticut

Mount Southington is a beloved ski destination located in Plantsville, Connecticut, just minutes off exit 30 on I-84. Since 1964, this local favorite has offered thrilling downhill skiing and snowboarding experiences for people of all ages. With 50 acres of skiable terrain and a 425-foot vertical drop, Mount Southington provides affordable winter recreation that’s easily accessible from the New Haven area.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just looking to try something new, Mount Southington welcomes everyone who’s young at heart. The ski area has been serving Connecticut residents and visitors for more than 50 years, making it a treasured winter recreation spot in the central part of the state. You’ll find everything you need for a fun day on the slopes at this charming local mountain.

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Mount Southington Ski Area

Mount Southington Ski Area is a winter paradise located in Plantsville, Connecticut. Opened in 1964, this charming ski resort spans 51 skiable acres and offers something for everyone in your family. You’ll find well-maintained trails and a terrain park that caters to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.

If you’re new to winter sports, you’ll appreciate the ski resort’s rental services and professional instruction. Mount Southington makes learning to ski or snowboard accessible and fun. Their Terrain Based Learning program is specially designed to help beginners gain confidence on the slopes.

Night skiing is available at Mount Southington, extending your fun even after the sun goes down. The resort also offers seasonal ski rentals, season passes, and gift cards if you plan to visit multiple times throughout the winter season.

Beyond skiing, the Mountain Room provides a warm, rustic setting for weddings and special events. During summer months, you can enjoy sand volleyball and cornhole at the facility, making it a year-round destination.

Rating: 4.4 (937 reviews)
Location: 396 Mt Vernon Rd, Plantsville, CT 06479
Contact: (860) 628-0954
Website: Visit Website

The History of Mount Southington

Mount Southington has been a beloved winter destination in Connecticut since the 1960s, transforming from a simple farm to a popular ski area through the vision of its founders and continuous development.

Early Beginnings

In the early 1960s, Dr. Harold Richman and his wife returned from a ski trip to Vermont with an inspired vision. They dreamed of creating a local ski area where Connecticut residents could enjoy winter sports without traveling far from home.

The Richmans purchased a farm in Southington, Connecticut, and began the transformation. They saw potential in the rolling hills that many locals had overlooked.

Their vision was ambitious but practical: create accessible winter recreation for families in central Connecticut. The location was strategic too, just minutes from Interstate 84, making it easily reachable for many Connecticut residents.

Development Over the Years

The transformation from farmland to ski area required substantial work. The Richmans carved trails into the hillside, installed ski lifts, and added essential infrastructure like snowmaking equipment and lights for night skiing.

Mount Southington officially opened in 1964 and quickly became a local favorite. The founders assembled a ski school team to help newcomers learn the sport, making winter recreation accessible to everyone.

For over 50 years now, Mount Southington has continued to improve its facilities. What started as a modest local ski hill has evolved into a complete winter sports destination while maintaining its local charm.

You can find Mount Southington just off Exit 30 on I-84 in central Connecticut, where it continues to provide “thrills made locally” as their motto suggests.

Skiing and Snowboarding Experiences

Mount Southington offers thrilling snow sports for all skill levels, with varied terrain and comprehensive training options. The ski area has been a favorite local destination since 1964, providing winter fun just minutes from I-84 in central Connecticut.

Training Programs and Lessons

Mount Southington’s instructional programs cater to everyone from first-timers to advanced skiers and snowboarders. You can sign up for private lessons if you prefer one-on-one attention. Group lessons are also available and provide a fun social atmosphere while learning.

Their certified instructors focus on safety and skill development. Children’s programs are especially popular, helping young skiers build confidence on the slopes.

For those looking to improve specific techniques, specialized clinics run throughout the season. These targeted sessions help you master challenging skills like moguls or terrain park features.

Beginners don’t need to worry—the learning areas are separate from main trails, creating a comfortable environment to build skills without pressure.

Terrain and Trails Overview

The mountain features a variety of trails to match different abilities. Four chairlifts provide easy access to all areas of the mountain, minimizing wait times even during busy periods.

Trail Difficulty Breakdown:

Beginner (Green): 30%
Intermediate (Blue): 40%
Advanced (Black): 30%

The terrain park offers exciting features for freestyle enthusiasts. Rails, jumps, and boxes provide opportunities to practice tricks and stunts in a dedicated space.

Night skiing is a special experience at Mount Southington. Trails are well-lit, extending your ski day well into the evening. This is perfect if you work during daylight hours but still want to hit the slopes.

Trail conditions are carefully maintained with modern snowmaking equipment, ensuring good coverage even when natural snowfall is limited.

Year-Round Activities at Mount Southington

Mount Southington offers visitors exciting activities throughout all seasons, not just during winter months. The mountain transforms to accommodate various events and programs that keep guests returning year after year.

Summer Events and Programs

When the snow melts, Mount Southington doesn’t shut down – it shifts gears! The mountain becomes a perfect venue for outdoor enthusiasts seeking summer fun. Local hiking trails open up, providing spectacular views of central Connecticut’s landscape.

Many families enjoy the mountain biking opportunities available on specially designated trails. These paths cater to different skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders.

Mount Southington hosts summer camps for kids, focusing on outdoor adventures and environmental education. These programs offer a great way for young people to stay active and learn about nature.

You can also find outdoor fitness classes taking place on the mountain slopes during warmer months. Yoga sessions with mountain views have become particularly popular among visitors looking to combine exercise with natural scenery.

Special Events and Festivities

Throughout the year, Mount Southington becomes a hub for community celebrations and special events. The Crazy Brew Bash stands out as a highlight, bringing together craft beer enthusiasts in a festive mountain setting.

Comedy shows regularly appear on the events calendar, giving you a chance to laugh with friends against the beautiful backdrop of the mountain. These performances typically feature both local talent and visiting comedians.

Mount Southington hosts seasonal festivals celebrating everything from fall foliage to summer solstice. Each event incorporates the natural beauty of the mountain with food, music, and family-friendly activities.

Holiday celebrations take on special meaning at the mountain, with themed events for major holidays. You’ll find everything from Easter egg hunts to Halloween festivities depending on when you visit.