Mastering Uphill Skiing: Killington's Path to the Peak Program at Pico Mountain

Located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Killington Resort is a premier destination for winter adventurers, and its Path to the Peak Uphill Program transforms the way ski and snowboard enthusiasts experience the mountain. Centered at Pico Mountain in Mendon, this program invites both beginners and seasoned backcountry travelers to sharpen their uphill travel skills, offering a blend of technical education and hands-on exploration in a stunning alpine environment.

Pico Mountain, one of Killington’s scenic faces, offers a distinctive winter landscape defined by rugged ridgelines and dense spruce forests characteristic of the Northern Appalachian range. Participants will gain first-hand experience navigating steep ascents while absorbing panoramic views of Vermont’s frosted peaks. The area’s glacially carved terrain provides an ideal training ground for uphill travel techniques against a backdrop that challenges and rewards.

The program splits into two progressive sessions tailored to different skill levels. The Beginner Focus session kicks off indoors at the welcoming Last Run Lounge in Pico’s Base Lodge with an essential clinic that covers crucial uphill equipment—from apparel layering strategies to pack organization and basic skinning methods. Following this foundational briefing, participants embark on a guided uphill tour reaching the base of the Summit Chair, combining classroom instruction with real-world application. Complimentary demo gear, including skis and snowboards specially equipped for uphill travel, allows newcomers to test the experience with confidence.

For those returning with prior uphill experience, the Intermediate/Advanced Focus session dives deeper, spotlighting endurance nutrition, refined layering, and, notably, avalanche safety. Here, guests benefit from expert advice by Paul Rachele, an AMGA-certified guide with Core Mountain Guides, who imparts critical knowledge of beacon use, shoveling techniques, and avalanche probe deployment. The program culminates in an ambitious summit tour of Pico Peak itself—an invigorating reward that unlocks sweeping vistas and a true alpine sense of accomplishment.

This program is distinctive to Killington because it marries expert instruction with access to one of the most extensive uphill travel playgrounds in the Northeast. Participants must bring their own boots, outerwear, and helmets, and those already equipped with packs and poles are encouraged to bring them along. All attendees must have a valid Killington/Pico uphill travel pass, ensuring responsible use of the backcountry zone.

By joining Path to the Peak, visitors tap into Vermont’s winter wilderness like never before—learning skills that open doors to safer, more confident mountain exploration. Whether you’re eyeing your first skin or prepping for backcountry tours, this program delivers specialized guidance within one of the East Coast’s standout ski regions.