Swain is an Indy Pass ski area in New York: 31 trails, 650 ft vertical, 120 acres.
Base to summit 1,320 to 1,970 ft · 650 ft vertical
Live snow forecast for the next 72 hours. Use the main tool to see how it stacks up against other mountains on your drive. No account needed.
Current snapshot
Why skiers choose Swain
Swain sits in New York with 650 ft of vertical drop, 31 trails, and 120 lift-served acres. Swain is well-suited to intermediate skiers, with 39% of trails in that range.
The mountain averages 130" of snowfall per season and uses snowmaking to help hold coverage. Lift tickets start around $78; day-of pricing varies. Swain is an Indy Pass mountain.
Snow conditions update often. Check back before you go. A fresh forecast can change everything.
Our model predicts crowd pressure for a typical week here: who this mountain draws, how its lifts absorb a rush, and how each day loads it. It is a prediction, not a turnstile count. Snow in the forecast pushes any of these days up.
Crowds are rarely the story here, even on a Saturday.
Get the crowd forecast for your exact ski dayYes. Swain is an Indy Pass mountain. Pass holders can ski here as part of their pass benefits. Check the current pass terms for any blackout dates or restrictions.
Swain has 31 trails covering 120 lift-served acres with 650 feet of vertical drop. The terrain breakdown is roughly 27% beginner, 39% intermediate, and 33% advanced or expert.
Swain has some beginner terrain (about 27% of trails), but the mountain generally skews toward intermediate and advanced skiers. Beginners will find options but may feel more comfortable at a mountain with a stronger beginner focus.
Day ticket prices at Swain start at approximately $78, though window rates vary by date and demand. Indy Pass holders ski here as part of their pass.
Swain averages approximately 130 inches of snowfall per season. The mountain uses snowmaking to help hold coverage and extend the season. Snowmaking matters more during lighter snow years.
January and February are typically peak season at Swain when snowpack is deepest and conditions are most consistent. December is hit or miss. The base needs time to build. Midweek visits are almost always less crowded than weekends, especially when pass holders fill the mountain on Saturdays and holidays.
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Snow, drive time, pass, and crowds scored together. See if another resort in New York or beyond is a better fit today.
See all New York ski mountains ranked by snow, vertical, and value in our state hub.
*Day ticket prices are approximate and vary by date, demand, age, and promotions. Always confirm pricing directly with Swain before purchasing.