6 Ski Resorts That Are Packed With Unlimited Adventure for the Whole Family
Published by Allie Hochman
These Family-Friendly Ski Mountains Provide the Perfect Mix of Action, Exploration, & Relaxation
One of the most magical parts about the snow season is embarking on outdoor adventures with loved ones. However, it's no secret that finding a destination with endless excitement for the little ones, excursions for the teens, and perhaps a bit of relaxation for the parents can be a struggle. So, we’ve surveyed the top ski resorts in the U.S. and put together a list of the best mountains for families of all ages, where your crew can shred, explore the outdoors, relax by the fire, and more.
Shredding Out East
Smugglers' Notch, Vermont
Tucked away in Jeffersonville, Vermont, you’ll find a quaint ski town built around adventure for the whole family to enjoy. Starting with the Learn to Ski or Ride Program, where both kids and adults who aren’t yet seasoned shredders can get a taste of the joy that skiing and snowboarding bring through a group lesson. For those who prefer one-on-one instruction, Smuggs has plenty of experienced, personable instructors for private lessons. If your teen is clearly passionate about turning skiing into a lifestyle, even becoming an instructor, the Junior Instructor Development Program is the perfect gateway into this next phase.
Come last chair, head over to the Nordic Ski and Snowshoe Adventure Center for ice skating, snowshoeing, and other snowy adventures, or cozy up by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. While there’s nothing quite like quality time spent with family on a winter getaway, there’s also something extra special about creating lasting friendships with the people you meet during these unforgettable vacations. Smugglers' Notch prides itself on bringing kids, and even parents, together through invigorating activities, and of course, aprés ski. When it comes to lodging, be sure to check out one of the many family-style condominiums, which provide the perfect combination of convenience and comfort, so after a long day on the mountain, the whole family can unwind in their home away from home, without the separation that a hotel room might bring.
Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
Whether your little ones are buckling up their boots for the very first time or they’re eager to learn some new tricks on their board, Bretton Woods offers a number of different group lessons for all ages and skill levels. Not to mention, when enrolling in a children’s group lesson, a lift ticket and lunch are included, making for an unbelievable day on the slopes. If you’re looking for alternative outdoor activities, there’s no shortage here! With tubing, fat tire biking, scenic gondola rides, and more, the list of adventures at Bretton Woods is endless. To get a true feel for the winter charm, you can even dash through the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh ride, the epitome of holiday joy.
While the adventure-junkies are having the time of their lives on the trails, it’s time for the parents to indulge in slopeside serenity at the Spa at Omni Mount Washington. And let’s not forget about the numerous dining experiences offered at Bretton Woods, like the Rosebrook Lodge, the perfect place to enjoy panoramic views of the mountain while digging into some delicious bites.
Sunday River, Maine
With 139 trails and 19 lifts to choose from, Sunday River certainly has no shortage of snowy adventures for skiers and boarders of all levels. And not only are there endless runs to take, but this Maine mountain offers Twilight Skiing on Fridays, Saturdays, and select holidays, so even when the sun starts to go down, thrill-seekers can keep shredding under the stars. Choose from a variety of different ticket options, including full-day, half-day, and even beginner tickets that strictly provide access to safe trails for those still getting their footing for a special rate, and get ready for an adventure to remember!
A little aprés ski never hurt anybody, especially when getting the chance to wind down in North America’s very first slopeside igloo. The Igloo at Jordan Basin makes for the ultimate aprés experience, with a plethora of craft cocktails and snacks to end the day on an ultimate high. The evening action doesn’t end there, as live music is of the utmost importance following last chair, with an impressive lineup of talented artists performing all season long. Be sure to check out the Foggy Goggle, Barker Bar, along with Sunday River’s other festive pubs with entertainment for all ages to enjoy.
West Coast Adventures
Keystone, Colorado
Keystone has always been a dream destination for skiers and boarders, but in recent years, the mountain has unlocked a brand new adventure site, known as the Bergman Bowl. This high-alpine terrain, with lifts that provide direct access to 16 elite trails, is ideal for adventure junkies looking to challenge themselves from a whole new peak. But have no fear, this Colorado hotspot is also home to countless other trails suitable for all levels, so even those new to the slopes can develop their love for skiing, whether that be through a lesson or alongside family and friends. And as an added bonus, when booking a family vacation for two or more nights, kids under 12 are granted one day of skiing for free - who can say no to that?!
For more slopeside adrenaline, the little ones are encouraged to check out the world’s largest Mountaintop Snow Fort for a one-of-a-kind snowy playground, followed by an epic tubing run, perfect for the speed demons. To see the mountain from a whole new perspective, the Ski With A Ranger program provides free one-hour ski and snowboard tours of the mountain, thanks to Friends of the Dillon District volunteers, who’ve partnered with the U.S. National Forest Service. This way, eager explorers can learn the ins and outs of the landscape, and are encouraged to ask questions, making for an unforgettable and educational expedition.
Deer Valley, Utah
For the families with kids of all ages, ranging from tiny tots to teens seeking age-appropriate excitement, Deer Valley certainly has it all. For starters, the mountain offers reliable childcare starting at two months through age 12, so even if your little ones haven’t yet taken to skiing, they can enjoy a day of fun with their peers, while the adults shred it up, knowing their kiddos are safe and well cared for. To accommodate the adventure-seeking teens who want a break from family runs, the Teen Escape Ski Clinic has just what they need to shake things up. Enthusiastic, experienced instructors have been trained specifically to teach teenagers new techniques that instill a love for the sport, making for the ultimate adventure.
Let’s not forget the other programs specifically tailored for each age group, including the Adventure Club for kids between the ages of 7 and 12, plus Bambi Club and Fawn Special for the mightiest minis on the slopes. Deer Valley doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to family-friendly lodging, especially when residing at Founders Place. Guests can choose from a variety of rental properties to accommodate all members of the family and enjoy a mesmerizing mountain retreat, just steps away from dining and all-day activities.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
It’s no secret that Beaver Creek is comprised of mesmerizing terrain, ranging from leisurely greens to advanced glades. When setting foot in the Signature Parks Collection, athletes are empowered to step out of their comfort zone and challenge themselves to advance to the next level. What makes this mountain so unique is the way the parks are immensely inclusive of all skill levels. Red Buffalo Park is filled with runs that promote beginners and entire families to conquer new peaks with a bit of a challenge, while ensuring it’s a safe, comfortable, and controlled learning environment. Plus, Haymeadow Park, the dedicated learning area located at the base of the mountain, and home to the Parlour, is the ideal spot to build confidence and truly grow to love the sport.
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or just want to test out some new gear, Beaver Creek offers numerous equipment rental packages, with the ability to choose from demo, performance, or other ski and snowboard bundles. Once the young adults of the family have unbuckled their boots for the day, they have the unique opportunity to check out Beaver Creek's recent addition, enhancing the aprés culture for teens. Upon entering Hawk’s Nest Cabin, guests can sip on craft non-alcoholic beverages, jam out to live music, beat their high score on epic arcade games, and more. Alternatively, the whole family is welcome to explore Beaver Creek Wonder, where the adventures seemingly never end. Between riding ice bikes, admiring art installations, and seeing the magic of the giant snowglobe up close, this real-life wonderland sets the scene to make lifelong memories with loved ones.