Vermont, United States

Capital City: Montpelier
Closest Airport: Burlington International
Population: 608,827
Resort Areas Include: Green Mountains - Woodstock - Manchester
Snow Season: November/December - March/April
Main Language: English
Currency: United States Dollar

With cold winters and mountains running tip to toe down the centre of the state, Vermont has ideal conditions for action above the snow line. Ok, the mountains here in this far north east corner of the US aren't monsters (the tallest is 1,340 metres, or 4,393 feet), but with 70 per cent of the state covered in forest, there's more than a little fun to be had on cross-country skiis too.

There are numerous locations where you can enjoy cross country skiing in Vermont, and over 1,400 kms (885 miles) of well maintained cross-country trails. Snowmobiling, dog-sledding, skating, ice-fishing and snowshoeing are all popular here in the winter months.

Across the downhill ski resorts in Vermont, there's a not inconsiderate 4,500 total skiable acres, as well as 900 trails and 150 lifts. And considering the relatively low overall altitude here, some resorts manage an impressive vertical - nearly 700 metres in some cases.

You'll also find a good range of terrain parks for skiers and riders in nearly all resorts - with the exception of Mad River Glen, which has reportedly the most challenging terrain in New England, but is only accessible to skiiers.