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Join the annual Pond Skim at Killington Ski Resort for a thrilling and festive springtime event where skiers and snowboarders race across an icy pond. Whether you skim the surface or make a splash, this lively competition celebrates Vermont’s mountain spirit and spring fun.
Join the annual Pond Skim at Killington Ski Resort for a thrilling and festive springtime event where skiers and snowboarders race across an icy pond. Whether you skim the surface or make a splash, this lively competition celebrates Vermont’s mountain spirit and spring fun.
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Operated by Killington · Killington, Vermont
Each spring, as winter loosens its grip on Vermont’s rugged Green Mountains, Killington Ski Resort transforms into the scene of one of New England’s most spirited and unconventional events: the annual Pond Skim. Held right at Killington, Vermont—an outdoor mecca renowned for its vast ski terrain and vibrant mountain culture—the Pond Skim is equal parts daring sport and festive spectacle. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, a fearless snowboarder, or an enthusiastic spectator, this event promises an exhilarating blend of adrenaline, community spirit, and sheer fun.
At the core of the event is the ’pond’ itself: a deceptively simple, snow-melt-fed pool set up near the base of Killington’s K-1 Lodge. Competitors race downhill with speed and style, aiming to skim across the pond’s icy surface without plunging in. The goal? To make it all the way across without sinking—but whether you succeed or spectacularly splash, the Pond Skim celebrates the thrill of trying. What makes this event truly unique is the mix of competition and carnival atmosphere, where over-the-top costumes lighten the mood and boost camaraderie.
The event welcomes skiers and snowboarders 48 inches and taller, dividing participants into age categories to keep competition balanced. Safety briefings and clear rules ensure everyone has a fair yet exciting shot at crossing the icy expanse. Registration is limited to the first 100 entrants, reinforcing the event’s exclusive and community-driven nature. Participants must bring either a valid season pass, lift ticket, or complete an Express Assumption of Risk form if hiking up instead of using lifts.
Killington Ski Resort itself is Vermont’s largest ski area, stretching across multiple peaks and renowned for consistent, quality snow and diverse trails. The Pond Skim taps into this outdoor playground’s lively culture and breathtaking alpine backdrop, making it a standout springtime celebration that draws crowds and competitors from across the region.
While the focus is the splashy showdown, the event’s atmosphere is just as compelling. After runs, the K-1 Lodge patio fills with cheers, prize ceremonies, and community warmth, spotlighting categories like Best Overall Skim, Best Costume, and the humorous Kona Big Wave Award for biggest splash. Each participant receives a custom Pond Skim towel as a memento, symbolizing their part in this lively tradition.
Killington’s Pond Skim offers more than a sporting challenge; it’s a vivid snapshot of Vermont’s ski culture evolving with the seasons. Perfect for thrill-seekers ready to embrace a bit of winter’s last chill with laughter and style, this event is an invitation to ski hard, dress boldly, and maybe get a little wet in the process.
moderate.
6 hours.
Participants should be comfortable skiing or snowboarding downhill at moderate speed and have basic balance skills to attempt the skim.
Yes, participants must bring a valid season pass or lift ticket for event day, or complete an Express Assumption of Risk form if hiking up instead.
Absolutely, the event welcomes both skiers and snowboarders over 48 inches tall.
Yes, participants are divided into age groups (21+ and 20 & under) to keep the competition fair.
You should wait for staff assistance to exit safely rather than trying to get out on your own.
No, costumes are encouraged but not required; they add fun and help build event spirit.
Participants should have basic skiing or snowboarding skills; beginners may find the challenge difficult.
Killington Ski Resort opened in 1958 and has grown to become one of the largest ski areas in the eastern U.S.
Killington actively manages snowmaking and trail maintenance to reduce environmental impact while supporting year-round recreation.
Killington is a year-round outdoor events destination in Killington, Vermont, known for a diverse calendar of seasonal competitions, festivals, and community gatherings. The property hosts summer golf events, including the Michelob ULTRA Golf League at Killington Golf Course, a Thursday night 9-hole scramble series running from June 12 to August 28 with prizes, dinner, and local giveaways. In autumn, Killington stages Killington Brewfest at Pico Mountain, featuring live music, food, and craft offerings from about 40 breweries, ciders, and seltzers against Vermont foliage. Winter events include organized competitions at Bear Mountain Lodge such as the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge and amateur races with age divisions and discounted lift tickets, plus volunteer-driven activities supporting safety and operations. Spring highlights include the annual Pond Skim and volunteer opportunities that aid participant safety and event logistics; the kparks Spring Send-Off jam in Timberline Park; the Slash & Berm Grom Slalom for riders 13 and under supporting Wings for Life; and a lively Mini Shred Madness at Pico with crew support. Killington also presents community gatherings such as an Easter Sunrise Service reached via the K-1 Gondola with a non-denominational service at Peak Lodge and a shared breakfast. Multiple volunteer roles are available across events, offering lift tickets, meals, and hands-on experience. Each event listing emphasizes safety, community involvement, and competitive or celebratory elements, providing visitors and volunteers clear expectations and organized programming. The Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge accepts the first 150 registrants for competition, with course inspection, safety measures, and volunteer support available.
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