There might not be snow on the ground, but there is so much to do on the scenic slopes of Massachusetts’s ski areas. These destinations are not just for winter lovers! They come alive with adrenaline‑pumping attractions, dining with a tropical twist, and community events for all ages. Here’s a curated roundup of things to do in and around ski areas this summer—from classic alpine slides to cool cocktails.
Alpine Slides & Mountain Coasters
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
Experience a classic mountain adventure – the Alpine Slide. The slide at Jiminy Peak is the only one in Massachusetts and sends you down nearly 900 vertical feet over 2,890 feet of track, complete with tunnels, curves, and dips—you control your speed using a handbrake for a gentle cruise or a thrilling ride.
Berkshire East Mountain Resort
Hop aboard the Thunderbolt Mountain Coaster for gravity-powered thrills through forested slopes — solo or tandem, and entirely speed-controlled. You’ll enjoy every twist, curve, and dip as well as some amazing scenery.
Summer Tubing
Ski Ward
The Summer TubaSlide offers a dry‑slope tubing adventure unlike any other. Riders climb via magic carpet lift and ride tubes down four ‘grassy’ lanes nearly 250 feet long—no snow required. After the tubing adventure ends, try your hand at some beach volleyball or a giant, thick frappe from the Slopeside Bar & Grill.
Ziplining and Aerial Adventures
Berkshire East Mountain Resort
Fly over the forest on the Valley Jump zipline canopy tour — two 2,300-foot dual ziplines that let you race at up to 60 mph above the treetops. If you don’t have that need for speed, the Aerial Adventures course has mini-zips, rope bridges, and engaging ways to climb your way through nature.
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
Ride the Soaring Eagle zipline seated side-by-side, launching from the summit for a scenic descent with a dose of speed. The Giant Swing will catapult your group into the air. The aerial adventure course and bungee trampolines provide options for even more fun.
Catamount Mountain Resort
Home to the Catamount Zip Tour, featuring the “Cata‑Monster”—the longest dual-span zipline in the USA (over 1 mile, speeds topping 55 mph)—plus shorter practice spans and an aerial adventure park that offers nine tree‑top courses.
Mountain Biking
Thunder Mountain Bike Park at Berkshire East
The Thunder Mountain Bike Park has over 40 lift-serviced trails covering nearly 30 miles. From gentle greens to expert trails, mountain bikers of all abilities will be able to have a thrilling experience. Besides lift and trail passes, the resort offers lessons, programs, and clinics.Bottom of Form
Dining & Beach Bars
Nashoba Valley Ski Area
At the base of Nashoba Valley Ski Area in Westford, you’ll find the Sunset Tiki Bar & Grill—a tropical oasis open from late May into early September. It features a private sand beach, lawn games, and live music.
Otis Ridge
The Grouse House is a local favorite serving up homemade food and tasty drinks in a casual setting. Throughout the season you’ll find fun activities like movie nights, Italian night, and the recently launched Bingo nights.
Concerts, Festivals, and Events
Wachusett Mountain
Wachusett Mountain hosts a slew of events including the Summer Mountain Games, Country Fried Summer Send Off, KidsFest, and Oktoberfest. Scenic chairlift rides are also available with a nominal fee during all festival events.
Bousquet Mountain
The Summit Sounds Concert Series kicks off in early August and includes the Summer Stomp Country Music Festival, Fire on the Mountain Jam, and the Bousquet Jazz Festival. Enjoy scenic chairlift rides, locally sourced food and drinks, outdoor activities, and musical fun for all ages.
Scenic Chairlifts and Shopping
Looking for a tamer way to enjoy Massachusetts ski areas when winter is far away? Take a scenic chairlift ride at Jiminy Peak, Berkshire East, or Catamount. Stock up on plants, flowers, and more at the Otis Ridge Garden Center.
How to Plan Your Summer Ski‑Mountain Adventure
Pick your base: Eastern Mass residents might prefer Nashoba (tiki bar beach vibe) or Ski Ward (kid-friendly tubing), while Western Massachusetts explorers will love Jiminy Peak or Berkshire East for thrills.
Timing matters: Be sure to check event websites for full details, pricing and operating hours which vary widely.
Passes & tickets: Book online where possible—TubaSlide sessions at Ski Ward require advance signup; coaster rides and zip tours often sell out on weekends.
Mix activities: Combine action with relaxation. Take advantage of food, drink, and and low key activity offerings at the venues.
Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, après‑ride relaxation, or community‑style festivals, Massachusetts ski areas offer unforgettable snow-free experiences.
