As the cold weather rolls in, you’re probably considering a family ski vacation. With soft, powdery snow, thrilling outdoor recreation, cozy fireplaces, and twinkling holiday lights, what better way to spend your winter? But with around 480 ski resorts in the U.S. alone, settling on the right resort for you and yours can be tricky. That’s where we come in. We’ve compiled a list of family ski trips on both the East and West Coast that are sure to make your family ski vacation unforgettable. Continue reading to find your new favorite ski resort.
Best Resorts for a Family Ski Trip on the West Coast
For years, the West Coast has boasted some of the best ski conditions in the world. Known for its powder snow, which is arguably the best snow for skiers and snowboarders alike, both beginners and experienced skiers return year after year for exhilarating winter sports. Top locations on this coast include Lake Tahoe in California, Colorado, Montana, and Park City in Utah, all of which we’ll dive into below.
Vail Ski Resort – Vail, Colorado
With 5,317 acres, Vail Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in the U.S and the second largest in North America. Not to mention, it’s been named one of the six best ski resorts in Colorado by Forbes! Beginner skiers are suited for 18 percent of the resort’s terrain, with 29 percent intermediate and 53 percent advanced terrain, putting this resort alongside many of the best family-friendly ski resorts. There’s ski gear for rent, as well as a world-class ski school with both ski and snowboard lessons on Golden Peak. Meanwhile, Northwoods and China Bowl have various options for intermediate skiers.
Overall, Vail Ski Resort boasts 278 trails and 32 lifts, so you’ll never get bored here! Aside from skiing, families can look forward to plenty of other fun winter activities, many of which are kid-friendly. This includes scenic Gondola tours, snowboarding, and a nature discovery center. There’s even a luxurious spa to help guests relax and unwind after a day packed with excitement on the mountain. You can indulge in massages, facials, and even couples treatments.
Best Ski Resort for a Family in Vail
If you’d like to visit Vail Ski Resort, consider staying at Vail Run Resort. Just three minutes from Vail Ski Resort’s mountain, Vail Run is a stunning ski resort in Vail, Colorado. You’ll have access to a full range of Nautilus equipment, a heated outdoor pool, a sauna, and a whirlpool here. There’s also a fitness center with weights and cardio equipment. Younger kids will love the indoor play area, and you’ll love the bar on-site, alongside other cozy amenities to complement your family ski trips. Accommodations at this resort include studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments and condos with king-sized beds, kitchens, a living/dining area, and a toasty fireplace. These units can accommodate four to eight guests, so you’ll have plenty of room to stretch your legs.
Beaver Creek Mountain – Avon, Colorado
Another fantastic family ski vacation in Colorado can be found at Beaver Creek Mountain. This mountain has over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain filled with natural snow and 167 ski trails to explore. You can also try out both beginner and intermediate terrain parks here, with plenty of signature parks, like the Red Buffalo Park, dedicated to helping families and younger skiers build confidence. Meanwhile, advanced skiers can race down the world-famous Birds of Pray Trail or ride Grouse Mountain, an expert terrain park. Beaver Creek Mountain also offers both individual and group lessons, so its one of the best family ski school programs.
Down in Beaver Creek Village, enjoy freshly baked cookies or a massive performing arts center, featuring comedy, family shows, concerts, and more. You can also enjoy ice skating at both an outdoor and indoor ice skating rink. Aside from the ice rink, Beaver Creek has plenty of family activities, such as snow tubing and ice fishing. You’ll also find plenty of shopping, with boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, and more, as well as on-mountain fine dining options.
Best Ski Resort for a Family in Avon
Named one of the 50 best resorts in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa is a fantastic kid-friendly ski resort in Beaver Creek, perfect for your annual family ski trips. Access the ski area through the convenient gondola system, and enjoy a scenic sleigh ride, fly fishing, sleds, and more. Not to mention, you have your pick of delicious on-site dining options all season long. You can keep up with your workout routines at the state-of-the-art fitness center or take a dip in three infinity hot tubs. Westin Riverfront also has a relaxing day spa, Spa Anjali with massages, facials, and even unique chakra blessings to revitalize your body.
Guests have their choice of studio, one, two, and even three-bedroom suites, sleeping up to twelve guests. These suites offer king-sized beds and queen sleeper sofas, as well as full kitchens, living areas, and a toasty fireplace. You’ll also have access to a fantastic view of the mountain or Beaver Creek Village.
Park City Mountain – Park City, Utah
At an imposing 7,300 acres, Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in America. This resort has over 40 lifts and over 330 trails, so there are plenty of options for skiers of varying skill levels. This variety is what makes this one of the best resorts for family ski trips. Of course, Park City features a ski school with multiple classes to help get new skiers up to speed. In fact, the resort offers an All-Terrain program that allows kids to spend the day exploring the slopes with a guide. Other activities include a mountain coaster, a zipline, horse drawn sleigh rides, and skating at the ice skating rink. There’s also a scenic gondola ride that takes guests over the mountain and offers unforgettable views of the slopes. Looking for a totally unique experience? Then enjoy sleigh rides to a yurt snuggled in a pristine winter wonderland, complete with hot chocolate.
Best Family Ski Vacation in Park City
Of course, no family ski vacation is complete without a good place to stay, and Westgate Park City is one of the best. For the last ten years, this world-class resort has won the title of Best Ski Resort from Utah’s Best of State Awards. Indulge in on-site amenities like the Serenity Spa, yoga studio, heated indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, a kids activity center, and ski-in/ski-out access to get you to the mountain as quickly as possible. What’s more, there are also award-winning restaurants that serve wagyu beef, seafood, an extensive selection of wines, as well as to-die-for desserts. When you’re ready to relax, you can unwind in a one-, two-, or four-bedroom villa. These villas all boast king-sized beds and queen sleeper sofas to accommodate four to 16 guests. Settle in with full kitchens/kitchenettes, washer/dryers, and living/dining rooms.
Big Sky Resort – Big Sky, Montana
Family ski trips may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Montana, but it’s actually home to one of the best family ski resorts: the Big Sky Resort. This spectacular resorts spans 5,850 skiable acres and reaches 4,350 feet in elevation. You’ll find 39 lifts (some with heated seats) and 300 named runs to ski through, as well as multiple terrain parks. The resort also has the most advanced ski lift network in the U.S. When you’re done racing down the mountain, relax in the cozy village below. There are snow shoeing tours, headlamp night skiing, dog sledding, snow mobile tours, and even fly fishing! It’s safe to say there’s plenty of fun to be had for the whole family. While all of the activities are great, the real highlight is the enchanted forest. This family-friendly activity features immersive light displays along a kilometer-long path. What’s more, end each day with unique dining experiences, including sleigh ride dinners!
Best Ski Resort for a Family in Big Sky
Big Sky Resort is located right at the center of the Mountain Village, with convenient access to all the excitement. Guests have their wide variety of non-ski activities, including dining options to suit every palate. From Mexican to burgers, to pizza, to coffee and pastries, the resort has a variety of meals to choose from. The Solace Spa, also located at the resort, features body treatments, facials, and massages. Additionally, the Solace has a storefront with women’s clothing, jewelry, and accessories. There are also plenty of toasty hot tubs here. Accommodations include studio, one, two, and three-bedroom suites. Studios come with a queen Murphey bed and queen sleeper sofa. Meanwhile, one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas come with king-sized beds and queen-sleeper sofas. These units can accommodate anywhere from four to eight guests, depending on the suite chosen.Â
Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort – Lake Tahoe, California
Make your family ski trips the most “heavenly” yet with this next resort. Heavenly Mountain Resort overlooks the crystalline waters of Lake Tahoe, surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains. As the highest ski resort in Lake Tahoe, at 10,067 feet, this resort has some beautiful views. But Heavenly Mountain offers more than just sightseeing. Heavenly boasts 34 miles of groomed trails covering 4,800 skiable acres, making it not only the largest in Lake Tahoe but one of the largest ski resorts in America. Specifically, the resort has 97 trails to accommodate skiers of every skill level. So, seasoned vets and newcomers alike can enjoy the slopes. Heavenly Mountain is also home to Groove Park, a progressive park with nearly 20 features, and LTR, a beginner park with four features. Just off the mountain are kid-friendly activities, including guided snowmobile tours, snow tubing, and even a scenic Gondola ride. So there are multiple options to stay entertained when not braving the mountain’s many slopes. Lake Tahoe is the perfect place for a family ski vacation.
Best Family Ski Resort Near Heavenly Mountain
If you want to stay near the Heavenly Mountain Resort, the Marriott Grand Residence at Lake Tahoe is just two miles away. This California ski resort is located within the Heavenly Village and is near its endless activities. On-site, this resort features a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. Guests can also enjoy a massage or beauty treatment at the on-site Serenity Spa. Serenity offers massages, facials, and a steam room to help visitors unwind after a day on the slopes. Accommodations include studio, one-, and two-bedroom villas. The studio comes with a queen-sized bed to accommodate two guests. Next, the one-bedroom villa offers a queen–sized bed and sofa bed to house up to four guests. Finally, the two-bedroom villa features a king-sized bed, queen-sized bed, and sofa bed to accommodate six guests. These residences feature full kitchens, living and dining areas, and fireplaces. With so much space, it’s little wonder this is one of the best places to stay for family ski trips!
Best Resorts for a Family Ski Trip on the East Coast
Many resorts in the New England area offer charming settings for family ski trips. However, few can compare to those found in Vermont and New Hampshire. At these top ski resorts, indulge in the best of both worlds with charming New England towns and excellent ski areas and snow conditions. What more could you wish for? Let’s explore.
Okemo Mountain Resort – Ludlow, Vermont
Nestled in the rolling mountains of southern Vermont, Okemo Mountain Resort is the known as the state’s best family ski vacation resort. The mountain’s enormous size, variety of parks, and versatile trails with great terrain make it one of the best ski resorts in New England. Okemo offers 20 ski lifts to take you to any of its 123 scenic and exciting trails, so you’ll have easy access to whatever part of the mountain you want to reach. There are also five terrain parks to accommodate riders of all skill levels. The Okemo Ski and Ride School is also available to get new skiers up to speed, offering group and private lessons, so be sure to check it out if you or the little ones need to learn the ropes. This resort also has plenty of dining options to enjoy whenever you get hungry. From southern-style barbecue to Japanese ramen, there’s something on the mountain for everyone, making it one of the best ski resorts for families.
Best Ski Resort for a Family Near Ludlow
If you’d like to visit the Okemo Mountain Resort but maintain a quaint New England vacation, consider staying at the Seasons Resort at Sugarbush. This great family resort is no further than an hour and a half away from Okemo Mountain. The Season Resort has over 10 acres of grassy property, complete with a seasonal heated outdoor pool and rustic Vermont-style tennis courts. Here, explore the nearby Mad River Valley and nearby towns like Stowe. Accommodations include studio, one, and two-bedroom suites. The studio has a queen-sized bed and accommodates up to two guests. Next, the one-bedroom suite has both a queen-sized bed and a queen sofa bed to house up to four guests. Finally, the two-bedroom suite has a king-sized bed, queen-sized bed, and queen-sized sleeper sofa to hold up to six guests. No matter which suite you choose, you’ll have plenty of room for the whole crew on your family ski trips.
Smugglers’ Notch
Another fantastic spot in Vermont for a family ski trip is Smugglers Notch Resort. Smugglers Notch has three big mountains packed with skiing and snowboarding opportunities for skiers of all ages, making it a great family-friendly option. In fact, Smugglers Notch Resort offers a world-renowned ski school to help you and your family level up your skills. These mountains are home to some of the most extensive and diverse gladed terrain in the East, so you can ski free of any worries. There are also plenty of family-friendly activities like Kids’ Night Out, where kids ages five to twelve have a blast at the FunZone arcade. There’s also a family magic show, a winter carnival, and a haunted history walk. Enjoy daytime tubing, equipment rentals, and countless events the whole family will love.
Best Ski Resort for a Family in Smuggler’s Notch
Surrounded by the beauty of the East Coast mountains, Club Wyndham Smuggler’s Notch is a great home base for family ski trips in Smuggler’s Notch. You’ll be within walking distance of plenty of great shopping and dining, as well as an ice rink. Plus, this RCI Gold Crown resort boasts hot tubs, an arcade, a golf driving range, fire pits, and a fitness center. There’s also free parking for extra convenience, as well as a game room. For accommodations, there are one, two, three, or four-bedroom suites. These suites have king-sized beds and queen-sleeper sofas alongside cozy fireplaces. Overall, these suites have enough room for six to twelve guests. So, it’s clear why this is one of the best resorts for a family ski vacation.
Bretton Woods Resort – Carroll, New Hampshire
With 63 trails to explore amongst 464 acres, Bretton Woods is New Hampshire’s largest ski resort and one of the best for a family ski trip in New England. Plus, this resort also has an eight-passenger gondola along with 10 ski lifts to take you up to the mountain’s slopes. Bretton Woods is another ski resort that’s great for newcomers, thanks to its ski school. This school offers both individual and group classes, so the entire family can take ski lessons together! These classes are a big part of why Bretton Woods is one of the best ski resorts for families. Other activities here include Nordic skiing, snow tubing, a zipline canopy tour on the slopes of Bretton Woods, and and a luxurious spa at the awe-inspiring Mount Washington Resort. For dining, Bretton Woods has a massive food court with a variety of grab-and-go options to keep you fueled up for your ski adventure. There’s also the Slopeside Pub and Restaurant, where you can sit down and relax with a good meal and a great view of the slopes.
Best Ski Resort for a Family Near Carroll
If you’d like a home base near one of the best ski resorts for family trips in New England, check out the Mittersill Alpine Resort. This stunning Austrian-style resort is located in Franconia Notch, just twenty-five minutes from Bretton Woods Resort. This private, quiet location is perfect for relaxing after an exhilarating day on the slopes. Not to mention, nearby, you’ll find plenty of hiking, biking, golfing, and alternative skiing opportunities. On-site amenities include tennis courts, a sauna, hot tub, game room, pub, pool table, and exercise room. For lodging, settle into a spacious one- and two-bedroom suites, complete with full kitchens and modern conveniences. You’ll soon find that this is the perfect home away from home for your family ski trips.
Buy a Timeshare for Family Ski Trips at the Best Resorts
Between being within walking distance of ski lifts and exciting winter activities the whole family will love, these ski resorts are perfect for a family ski vacation. Really, a ski trip is one of those timeshare getaways you just need to experience. So, if you’d like to lace up those ski boots and make family ski trips an annual tradition, consider buying a timeshare! We have all of these resorts and more for a fraction of the price of retail on our timeshare resale market, so you can find vacations for families on a budget. Browse top vacation club brands, such as Hilton, Wyndham, Marriott, and more, and save on a lifetime of vacations. Simply browse our resale market, make an offer, and one of our resale specialists will get in contact with you soon. For questions, give us a call at 1-800-610-2734 or email us at [email protected]. We’re always happy to help. Happy skiing!
Rent a Timeshare for a Memorable Family Ski Vacation
If you’re not sure if timeshare ownership is right for you, don’t worry. You can try before you buy with rentals! With timeshare rentals, you get all the luxury of a top-tier resort with none of the commitment. Indulge in glamorous amenities, generous family-friendly accommodations, and ideal locations near your favorite family-friendly ski resort for family ski trips (or white sand beaches, bustling cities, you name it!). Take Thanksgiving vacations, New Years getaways, and Spring Break retreats, all with rentals. So, browse rentals today, and discover the beauty of renting. Check out this break down on how to rent a timeshare, as well.
