Vintage Ski Lodge Decor: A New England Guide to Holiday and Winter Styling

Step inside a world of Vintage Ski Lodge Decor, where New England winter charm meets cozy holiday style. In this guide, you’ll find playful ways to decorate with vintage skis, snowshoes, sleds, ski boots, and even old backpacks, alongside après-ski bar carts, ice lanterns, and sparkling ice buckets. Whether you’re dreaming up Christmas magic or a rustic winter retreat, these ideas will inspire you to style your home with vintage character and snowy lodge nostalgia.

A Traditional New England Guide to Vintage Ski Lodge Style

Vintage Ski Lodge Décor isn’t just about hanging up a pair of old skis or tucking snowshoes by the fireplace. It’s a style that captures the timeless charm of winter in New England from faded ski lodge signs and black-and-white photos to rustic sleds, vintage boots, and après-ski bar setups. Whether you’re decorating a mountain cabin, refreshing your living room for Christmas, or reimagining a former ski lodge, these traditional touches bring warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of history to your home.

Why I’m Sharing My Vintage Ski Lodge Décor Story

I grew up in Maine and first learned to ski at just four years old when my father brought me to the top of Saddleback Mountain. I had on a cape, a fur hat, and no mittens, my cape even got caught on the chairlift, nearly causing a disaster. But I made it down between my father’s legs, warmed up, and from that moment on, I was hooked. Skiing has been part of my life ever since.

Today, I live in Vermont with mountain views I once dreamed about, skiing mostly at Bromley and Stratton. Alongside my love for skiing, I’ve spent years thrifting and antiquing, collecting vintage snowshoes, skis, sleds, and all the charming lodge-style pieces that bring après-ski decorating to life. From DIY ice lanterns on the porch to old ski finds styled indoors, I write this guide from both passion and experience, blending my New England roots, love of skiing, and joy in vintage décor.

Vintage Ski Lodge Porch Decor Ideas for a Cozy Christmas Welcome

Porches and entryways are the perfect place to bring your ski lodge Christmas decor to life. Out here in the Vermont mountains, I love styling our porch with vintage snowshoes, wooden skis, old ski boots, and layers of cozy textures like sheepskins and wool blankets. Whether it’s an après-ski moment with a cup of cocoa, a sled stacked with evergreens, or a vintage Christmas tree lit with retro lights, each touch adds warmth and nostalgic charm before you even step inside.

How to Decorate a Porch with Vintage Skis for Ski Lodge Christmas Style

Vintage skis are one of the most iconic elements of ski lodge Christmas decor, and they’re easier to find and decorate with than you might think. Whether you lean a pair of wooden skis against a porch beam, crisscross them on a wall with evergreen garland, or tuck them into a vintage planter, these nostalgic pieces instantly add alpine charm. In my full post, I share tips for where to find vintage skis, what to look for in both wooden and metal styles, how to pair them with ski poles, and even how to paint and repurpose skis for outdoor decorating.

→ Read the full post here: Vintage Skis Antique Winter Retro Decorating Ideas

How to Style a Porch with Vintage Snowshoes for Vintage Ski Lodge Decor

Vintage snowshoes are one of my favorite winter porch staples. Their woven design and weathered wood bring instant character to any ski lodge–inspired space. Over the years, I’ve styled them in outdoor planters, layered them with evergreen boughs, hung them on walls and doors with big seasonal bows, and even crisscrossed them to frame an entryway. In my full post, I share where to find vintage snowshoes, how much they typically cost, what brands and styles to look for, and all the unique ways you can incorporate them into vintage ski lodge decor, whether it’s fall, Christmas, or the snowy season ahead.

→ See more in my Vintage Snowshoes Antique Decorating Ideas for Winter and Antique Snowshoes: Winter White Pair on Vintage Door posts.

Decorating with Vintage Sleds and Toboggans for Ski Lodge Porch Style

Vintage sleds and toboggans are some of the most charming pieces you can add to your winter porch. Whether it’s an old wooden toboggan propped by the door or a jack jumper styled with evergreens and bows, each one brings a nostalgic, alpine feel that fits perfectly into vintage ski lodge decor. I’ve found mine at antique shops and Vermont flea markets, and I love sharing what to look for, what they typically cost, and all the creative ways to style them, from laying one flat and topping it with gifts or greenery, to standing them upright for a festive focal point.

→ See more in my full post: Wooden Sled Decor: Decorative Vintage Toboggan Ideas

Styling Outdoor Christmas Trees and Evergreens for Vintage Ski Lodge Decor

There’s something magical about decorating with fresh evergreens and a vintage-style Christmas tree outdoors, especially when you have a mountain porch to work with. In one of my favorite porch setups to date, I added a porch Christmas tree wrapped in retro-style lights, paired it with evergreen-filled planters, and layered in vintage skis, boots, and cozy textures for a full vintage ski lodge decor look. It was simple, festive, and made the whole porch feel like a holiday postcard.

→ See the full styling ideas in these posts:

Vintage Ice Skate Decorating Ideas for Ski Lodge Style

Vintage ice skates are a timeless accent in vintage ski lodge decor. I love styling them on the porch, tied with velvet ribbon and hung from sleds, tucked into evergreen planters, or layered into winter vignettes by the door. They add nostalgic charm and a touch of wintry elegance to any cozy outdoor setup. Scroll through a few of my favorite ways I’ve decorated with vintage skates in past seasons, and stay tuned for a full blog post coming this winter!

Create an Après-Ski Porch Table for Vintage Ski Lodge Style

After a day on the slopes or just enjoying the snowy views, there’s nothing better than gathering around a cozy après-ski table. On our porch, I styled a vintage-inspired winter table with a red Mountain Weavers tablecloth, winter wonderland dishware, retro lights, and a twinkling Christmas tree still standing tall from the holidays. With glass Demi Johns, candlelight, and the mountain chill in the air, it was the perfect setting to wind down between Christmas and New Year’s.

→ See more in my full post: Après Ski Theme Party Vintage-Inspired Host ideas and Vintage Bar Cart: 15 Creative Ways to Style Indoors and Out

How We Stay Cozy Outdoors with a Porch Pellet Stove

Ski lodge style isn’t just about the decor, it’s about creating spaces you can actually enjoy all winter long. One of our favorite additions to our porch is a compact pellet stove, which keeps our outdoor space warm and cozy through snowy Vermont days. It’s perfect for après-ski evenings, outdoor gatherings, or just enjoying a quiet morning coffee surrounded by vintage snowshoes and evergreens. In this post, I share the exact model we use, how we installed it on the porch, and what it’s like to heat an outdoor space with pellets in the heart of winter.

→ See more in my full post: Wood Pellet Outdoor Heater: Why Big Timber Stove

DIY Vintage Ski Lodge Decor Ideas for a Winter Porch

Some of the most charming ski lodge decor ideas are the ones you create yourself. From using vintage Demijohns as oversized winter vases to crafting your own ice bucket and ice lanterns, these simple DIYs bring warmth, texture, and creativity to your winter porch. I styled our Demijohns with Scandinavian flair—evergreens, candles, and cozy textures—and created one-of-a-kind ice pieces that glow beautifully on snowy nights. These ideas are easy to recreate and perfect for anyone looking to add a handmade, vintage touch to their ski lodge decorating style.

→ See the full tutorials and styling ideas in these posts:

Why I Choose Vintage Ski Lodge Decor Over Big Box Winter Trends

While big box stores offer plenty of winter decor, nothing compares to the soul and story behind vintage ski lodge pieces. A pair of worn leather ski boots, a wooden jack jumper, or old snowshoes tucked into a planter, these finds carry history, charm, and a sense of place that mass-produced items just can’t replicate. Explore more in my Big Box Dupe or $20 Antique? Why I Always Choose the Real Thing post.

What I love most about vintage ski lodge decor is that no two spaces ever look the same. The patina, the textures, the unexpected mix of old skis and rustic sleds, it all comes together to create a home that feels personal, cozy, and truly timeless.

Whether styled on a porch or by a fireplace, these pieces reflect my love of New England winters, mountain views, and the thrill of the hunt. Vintage decor isn’t just beautiful, it’s meaningful.

Cozy Indoor Ski Lodge Decor Ideas for a Warm Winter Home

Ski lodge style doesn’t stop at the front door; it comes inside with layers of warmth, comfort, and mountain charm. From soft sheepskins and slipcovered furniture to antique Parisian bar carts and winter-inspired table settings, our Vermont home reflects everything I love about vintage ski lodge decor. With snow-covered views through every window, these cozy indoor touches create a space that feels like a true winter retreat.

Styling a Vintage Bar Cart for Cozy Ski Lodge Entertaining

No ski lodge–inspired home is complete without a cozy little spot to pour a warm drink or toast the season. I styled this vintage bar cart both indoors and out, using a collection of crystal ice buckets found in Paris, a full Jeannette vintage glassware set, and a complete cocktail service. Whether it’s hot cocoa after a day on the slopes or a wintery hot toddy shared fireside, a bar cart adds instant charm and retro style to ski lodge decor.

→ See more in my full posts: Vintage Bar Cart — 15 Creative Ways to Style Indoors and Out and Vintage Home Bar Ideas: 10 Timeless Designs to Copy Now.

Winter Lodge Table Setting Ideas for Cozy Ski Cabin Style

Table settings are one of my favorite ways to bring vintage ski lodge decor indoors. From rustic cabin-inspired tablescapes with ski boot centerpieces and red poinsettias to cozy Scandinavian dining setups with wicker chairs, sheepskins, and red-and-white toile dinnerware, I love creating casual yet meaningful winter tables. Whether you’re hosting après-ski with friends or just enjoying a quiet mountain morning, these vintage-inspired settings add warmth, texture, and seasonal charm to every meal.

→ See more in my full posts: Cabin Decor: 8 Rustic Lodge Table Setting Ideas and Nordic Table Scandinavian Inspired Dining Room Ideas

Polar Bear Christmas Tree with Vintage Ski Lodge Style

Looking for a cozy and unique holiday tree idea? Imagine a Christmas tree styled with playful stuffed polar bears peeking out from the branches, joined by snowy owls for a woodland touch. Layer in vintage skis, sleds, ski signs, and soft sheepskins, and suddenly the whole scene takes on the charm of a mountain lodge at Christmas. It’s a whimsical and nostalgic way to decorate, blending the magic of childhood with the rustic beauty of vintage ski lodge decor.

→ See the original post: How I Styled Polar Bear Christmas Decor for the Coziest Tree Ever

While most of my ski lodge decor is styled outdoors, I love bringing a touch of the mountain lodge look indoors too, whether it’s with a vintage bar cart setup or a casual winter tablescape layered with cozy textures and vintage finds. If you’re looking for more seasonal decorating ideas beyond ski lodge style, you’ll find plenty of cozy inspiration in my other winter and New England decor posts.

→ Explore more cozy decorating ideas from my Cozy New England-Inspired Decorating: Seasonal Ideas from Our Vermont Mountain Views post.

How I Blend Nordic Style Into Vintage Ski Lodge Decor

Vintage ski lodge decor doesn’t begin and end with skis and snowshoes — for me, it’s a style that draws just as much inspiration from Nordic cabins, Alpine chalets, and the cozy cottages of Sweden. Our red Vermont home reminds me so much of the classic Swedish houses, and I often find myself weaving in Scandinavian elements year-round.

From sheepskin throws layered on wicker chairs to simple red-and-white tablescapes and natural wood textures, these alpine touches bring warmth, simplicity, and soul into every season, not just winter. I’ve even used sheepskins in fall porch tables and casual outdoor dining setups, mixing in vintage pieces for a timeless ski lodge feel.

Brenter Schibob: A Unique Alpine Find Blending Skiing and Biking

One of my favorite vintage finds is a Brenter Schibob, a unique winter sport sled from the French Alps that blends elements of skiing and biking. I discovered it while antiquing in Paris, and it instantly reminded me of Vermont’s own jack jumpers. It’s a perfect example of how vintage ski lodge style transcends borders, bringing together alpine traditions from Europe and New England in one beautifully storied piece.

If you’re drawn to the rustic beauty of Nordic homes and the timeless simplicity of Scandinavian design, I’ve shared a few of my favorite Swedish home tours and seasonal styling ideas that continue to inspire my take on vintage ski lodge decor across all seasons:

Where to Find Vintage Ski Lodge Decor for Your Home

Looking to start your own collection of vintage ski lodge decor? Some of the best pieces, like wooden skis, vintage snowshoes, sleds, jack jumpers, and old leather ski boots, can be found in antique shops, thrift stores, yard sales, and barn sales throughout New England.

Looking for where I find many of my favorite vintage ski lodge pieces? Vintage Market Days Vermont is one of my go-to events. From antique skis and jack jumpers to one-of-a-kind winter treasures, here’s a look at what I’ve found and how I’ve styled it.

Don’t overlook family hand-me-downs, either; some of my most cherished pieces have come from basements, attics, and old ski cabins passed down through generations. Whether you’re styling a porch, entryway, or full lodge-inspired space, the hunt is half the fun when it comes to vintage ski gear.

Cozy Mountain Moments and Winter Views from the Hot Tub

While not a traditional piece of vintage ski lodge decor, our outdoor hot tub has become one of the most cherished parts of our winter routine. Nestled into the porch with sweeping mountain views, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a snowy day. I keep the space feeling seasonal and styled by filling blue and white chinoiserie planters with fresh evergreens and adding a few vintage porch touches to warm it up. Below, I’m sharing a few favorite photos that capture the peaceful charm of this little Vermont ritual, where vintage style meets mountain living.

→ See more in: Usher in Winter with Blue and White Chinoiserie Decor

Top 10 Vintage Ski Lodge Decor Finds to Hunt For This Winter

If you’re not sure where to start or what to look for, here are 10 of my favorite vintage ski lodge pieces to collect. These are the finds I always watch for at antique stores, flea markets, and vintage markets here in New England, and they never go out of style.

1. Vintage wooden snowshoes – Vintage wooden snowshoes are a ski lodge classic, perfect for hanging above a fireplace or propping up on a winter porch. Their rustic wood frames and rawhide webbing instantly evoke mountain lodge charm and timeless New England style. These are common in New England antique shops and flea markets, especially during the winter months. → Shop vintage snowshoes on Etsy.
2. White snowshoes – These aren’t your typical wooden snowshoes — vintage white metal snowshoes were made for serious winter treks and arctic adventures. Once used by the military and hardy outdoorsmen, they now make the coolest front door decor. Their sleek shape and snowy finish add just the right touch of rustic lodge style to your winter decorating, no snow required. → Shop vintage white snowshoes on Etsy.
3. Vintage skis – Nothing says vintage ski lodge decor like a pair of old wooden skis. Whether they’re black lacquered or natural wood with painted stripes, vintage skis make for striking wall decor, porch styling, or even indoor gallery-style displays. Look for pairs with original bindings and leather straps for authenticity. → Shop vintage skis on Etsy
4. Jack jumper sleds – The jack jumper sled, a Vermont original, is a rare but showstopping vintage piece. These quirky one-seat sleds were once used to race down hills and now serve as fabulous porch or entryway decor. You might find them at local barn sales, flea markets, or Vintage Market Days Vermont. → Shop vintage Jack Jumper sleds on Etsy.
5. Vintage toboggans – A vintage toboggan instantly adds scale and texture to a wintery corner, especially when styled with its original red cushion. These are beautiful when propped upright near an entry, used as a bench topper, or displayed with evergreen boughs. The pop of red adds warmth to any neutral ski lodge setting. → Shop vintage toboggans on Etsy.
6. Flexible Flyer sleds – Classic wooden flyer sleds with red steering handles add nostalgic charm to any winter setting. Perfect, leaned against a porch railing or layered beneath a Christmas tree, these sleds evoke cozy childhood memories. For added flair, look for those with hand-painted names or vintage decals. → Shop vintage Flexible Flyer sleds on Etsy.
7. Black leather ski boots – Stiff and rugged, vintage black leather ski boots bring a retro alpine touch to your styling. Whether hung from a sled, displayed near a firewood stack, or added to a winter porch scene, they’re a conversation starter. These are often found in pairs at local thrift stores or ski swap events. → Shop vintage ski boots on Etsy.
8. Vintage ski poles – Vintage ski poles, whether made of bamboo, metal, or wood, add height and structure to vignettes. Tie them together with a plaid ribbon or lean them against a wall for an authentic layered look. Look for leather straps and painted handles for that perfect retro finish. → Shop vintage ski poles on Etsy.
9. Adirondack pack baskets (Vintage Basket Backpack) – These vintage woven basket backpacks, often called Adirondack pack baskets, were used for carrying gear on hunting or skiing treks. Today, they’re beloved for their rustic charm and are often styled with evergreens or birch logs in entryways and porches. A favorite find in New England antique shops. → Shop Adirondack pack baskets on Etsy.
10. Vintage ice skates – Vintage ice skates are one of the easiest vintage winter decor items to find, especially classic white figure skates or black men’s hockey skates. Hang them from a sled, drape them over a bench, or tuck them into a wreath for an instant lodge feel. Blue pairs (like mine) are rarer and extra special when you spot them! → Shop vintage ice skates on Etsy.

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👉 Want to keep this list handy? Download my free guide: Top 10 Vintage Ski Lodge Decor Finds to Hunt For This Winter.

Embracing Timeless New England Style with Vintage Ski Lodge Decor

You don’t need a mountain home or a lift ticket to bring the warmth and charm of ski lodge style into your space. From vintage skis and snowshoes on the porch to cozy table settings and antique sleds indoors, these nostalgic pieces add timeless New England character to any winter home.

Whether you live in a Vermont farmhouse, a coastal cottage in Maine, or a city apartment with a snowy stoop, vintage ski lodge decor invites you to slow down, cozy up, and celebrate the beauty of winter.

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Want more ideas like this? You’ll love these collections of vintage holiday decorating ideas and vintage winter decor inspiration.

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