Skiing is for all ages! Check out some RedWeek-approved family friendly ski resorts that make sure that no one is left behind when it’s time to enjoy some fresh powder this winter.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Just a short drive from Denver, Breckenridge is a great family ski getaway with a vibrant downtown.
Why It’s Great For Families: Breckenridge’s mountains have something for everyone, with four diverse terrain parks, that are suitable for the most advanced shredders in your crew or the newest skiers on the slope. There are also a wide variety of ski lessons offered, whether you’re brand new to snow sports or just want to up your game. Check out some options.
Non-Ski Family Activity in Park City: A time-honored apres ski beverage — hot chocolate! It’s been raised to an art form in Breckenridge. Don’t miss La Francaise French Bakery, which features all kinds of tasty twists on a classic. Extra whipped cream, please!
Where To Stay: A luxurious home away from home, Breckenridge’s Grand Timber Lodge offers convenient ski-in/ski-out access, plus a full-service spa for the adults, and a full-service children’s play room for the kids!
Park City, Utah
The greatest snow on earth awaits! Park City is just 45 minutes from the airport, so you’ll be on the slopes in no time.
Why It’s Great For Families: It’s no wonder why this destination is regularly named the “No. 1 Ski Resort for Families in North America.” More than 60 percent of Park City’s terrain has been marked as beginner or intermediate — which means that it’s ideal for all ages and skill levels. There’s also just a lot of skiing to be done here; Park City boasts the most skiable acres in the U.S. (7,300+ acres).
Non-Ski Family Activity in Park City: Dash through the snow on a horse-driven sleigh! This classic winter activity is offered nightly at the base of Park City.
Where To Stay: Marriott’s Mountainside at Park City is indeed mountainside, giving you privileged ski-in/ski-out access. The resort’s two-bedroom villas offer plenty of space, including a living room, a full kitchen, and separate dining area.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Known as “Ski Town, USA,” Steamboat Springs is favorite destination for families who love hitting the slopes.
Why It’s Great For Families: First up, a great deal: At Steamboat, kids 12 and under ski free with the purchase a 5-or-more day adult lift ticket. Families can also take advantage of a Snowsports Ski School to get everyone on the mountain. Pick up a free Little Red Wagon for everyone’s gear at the One Steamboat Place entrance (close to the Gondola entrance) or the Kid’s Vacation Center.
Non-Ski Family Activity in Steamboat: When you’re off the slopes, pay a visit to Snow Bowl, offering 12 lanes of bowling, plus great family friendly food, video games, and more.
Where To Stay: The ski-in/ski-out Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas makes it easy to enjoy Steamboat’s snow sports action. It also features a PLAY game room that kids and adults alike will love.
Vail, Colorado
An alpine-style village in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Vail is a favorite winter playground for families.
Why It’s Great For Families: Throughout Vail’s 5,317 acres of skiable terrain (one of the largest ski area in the U.S.), you’ll discover several Kids’ Adventure Zones. The banked turns and tunnels are ideal for building a new skier’s confidence and improving his or her technique. Check out a full map of Vail Kids’ Adventure Zones.
Non-Ski Family Activity in Vail: Your kids will love paying a visit to Wishes Toy Store, a shop in nearby Avon that is home to an array of unique toys, gifts, apparel and more.
Where To Stay: Marriott’s StreamSide at Vail is a perfect home base for your Vail family vacation. When you’re not skiing, you’ll enjoy a children’s playground, a teen lounge, complimentary shuttle service to the Vail Mountain and a daily activities program for all ages.
