Winter is around the corner, and for many families, it means one thing: skiing! Whether your family is full of seasoned skiers or you’re introducing your little ones to the slopes for the first time, finding the right ski resort is critical to ensuring everyone has a memorable and enjoyable experience. Luckily, there are ski resorts across the country that cater specifically to families. Offering everything from beginner slopes to kids’ clubs and après-ski activities that will make your winter vacation one for the books. Here are the top ski resorts to consider for your family getaway this winter.
Smugglers’ Notch Resort, Vermont
Known as “America’s Family Resort,” Smugglers’ Notch lives up to its name. Located in Vermont, this resort is ideal for families with kids of all ages. With three interconnected mountains, the resort offers a wide range of terrain suitable for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers.
One of the standout features of Smugglers’ Notch is its award-winning children’s programs. Kids as young as two and a half can join ski lessons through the Snow Sport University. Older kids can enjoy full-day camps that include both skiing and snowboarding. Additionally, the resort provides a variety of non-skiing activities such as tubing, ice skating, and even an indoor FunZone with a climbing wall, obstacle course, and arcade games.
For parents looking for a bit of time alone, the resort offers childcare services and evening kids’ programs. So you can enjoy the slopes or relax while knowing your children are well taken care of.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Beaver Creek is renowned for its luxury and family-friendly atmosphere. Located in the Colorado Rockies, this resort offers a more intimate and less crowded experience compared to its neighbor, Vail. Beaver Creek’s ski school is known for its excellent instructors and personalized attention. Making it perfect for families, particularly those with first-time skiers. The dedicated beginner area, Haymeadow Park, features gentle slopes and slow lifts, giving kids the confidence to practice their skills.
In addition to skiing, Beaver Creek has plenty of off-the-slopes entertainment. Kids will love the ice skating rink in the village, and there are daily cookie breaks where warm. Fresh-baked cookies are handed out at the base of the mountain. For a family-friendly activity, try the mountain’s tubing hill or take a scenic sleigh ride through the winter landscape.
Beaver Creek also offers luxury accommodations for families, with large suites and family-style dining options. The resort’s complimentary shuttle service makes it easy to get around without the hassle of driving.
Northstar California Resort, California
Located near Lake Tahoe, Northstar California Resort is a top choice for families on the West Coast. Known for its approachable terrain and world-class amenities, Northstar combines the beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. The resort’s ski school is exceptional, offering lessons for all ages and ability levels. Its wide, gentle slopes are ideal for beginners and young skiers.
Northstar offers much more than just skiing. The village has a cozy, festive atmosphere with fire pits, s’mores stations, and ice skating, creating a magical winter wonderland. For families looking for more adventure, there are snowshoeing trails, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing available.
The Ritz-Carlton, located mid-mountain, provides luxury accommodations for families with ski-in/ski-out access, kids’ programs, and gourmet dining options. Making it an ideal choice for a hassle-free winter vacation.
Keystone Resort, Colorado
Keystone Resort, another gem in Colorado, is an excellent choice for families, especially those looking for affordability without sacrificing quality. Particularly famous for its Kidtopia program, which runs daily activities for children, including arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, and a giant snow fort on the top of Dercum Mountain. Keystone’s Family Ski Trail is explicitly designed for young skiers and their families. Featuring fun features like tunnels and kid-friendly signage.
Night skiing is a unique experience offered at Keystone, allowing families to extend their time on the slopes under the stars. The resort also boasts one of the largest snow tubing parks in Colorado. Adding to the variety of activities that families can enjoy.
Keystone’s accommodation options are plentiful, from ski-in/ski-out condos to affordable family lodges. Making it a practical choice for families looking for value.
Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
As the largest ski resort in the United States, Park City Mountain Resort offers an incredible range of terrain and activities for families. With over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, Park City caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from first-timers to experts.
Park City has a fantastic ski school that offers private and group lessons for children, making it easy for parents to hit the slopes while their kids are safely learning the ropes. For après-ski activities, Park City offers everything from ice skating to sleigh rides to the famous Alpine Coaster. A thrilling ride that zooms through the snowy mountains.
Beyond skiing, the town of Park City is rich in history and charm. Offering plenty of family-friendly dining, shopping, and cultural activities. For lodging, there are countless options, including cozy condos, luxurious hotels, and family-friendly resorts.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is often considered a more advanced skier’s paradise, but it’s also a fantastic choice for families looking for an adventurous winter vacation. The resort offers a great variety of terrain, including gentle beginner slopes and kid-friendly zones. The Kids Ranch offers lessons and programs for children as young as three. Ensuring that even the youngest members of your family can enjoy the mountain.
Off the slopes, families can experience wildlife tours, snowmobile trips, and visits to nearby Yellowstone National Park. Jackson Hole’s western charm and stunning scenery provide a unique backdrop for a family ski vacation.
No matter your family’s skiing ability or preferences, there is a perfect ski resort waiting for you this winter. From the luxury of Beaver Creek to the charming fun of Smugglers’ Notch, these resorts cater to families with top-notch skiing. Excellent children’s programs, and a wide range of activities that ensure everyone, from toddlers to adults, has a fantastic time. So, pack your snow gear and hit the slopes at one of these top ski resorts for families this winter!