Uncover the Perfect Family Ski Destinations & Experience Fun in the Sun This Year

The Best Ski Resorts in the USA For Families – From the East Coast to the West Coast

Picture this: You’re planning your family ski vacation, scrolling through endless resort websites, each claiming to be the “perfect family destination.” But as a mom of two teenagers who started as wobbly toddlers on the bunny slopes and are now racing me down black diamonds, I know there’s a world of difference between marketing promises and real family-friendly features.

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Over the years, I’ve discovered that the best family resorts aren’t always the ones with the flashiest amenities or the highest price tags. Sometimes it’s the smaller details that matter most – like having plenty of green runs that actually lead somewhere interesting, instructors who know how to make lessons fun, and yes, convenient bathrooms at every lodge.

In this guide, sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance and the Montréal en Lumière Festival, I’m sharing everything I wish I’d known before planning our first family ski trip. You’ll find honest recommendations for resorts that truly cater to families, money-saving secrets that have saved us thousands (literally), and insider tips that will make your vacation smoother. Whether your kids are still mastering the pizza wedge or ready to tackle their first black diamond, I’ll help you find the perfect mountain for your crew.

How to Save Money on Skiing This Season

Before I dive into my favorite resorts, let me share some hard-earned wisdom about saving money on family ski trips:

Think Small & Local: While mega-resorts are tempting, smaller mountains often offer better value. My teens learned to ski at Eldora near Boulder, where lift tickets run $58 compared to Vail’s $179.
Strategic Lift Tickets: Don’t just buy day passes at the window – that’s the fastest way to blow your budget. Here’s what I recommend:
- For short trips (1-7 days): Get an Epic Day Pass (Vail Resorts) or IKON Pass(Alterra Mountains)
- For regional skiing: Look into passes like the Northeast Value Pass, which covers multiple resorts in one area
- For bucket-list destinations: The The Mountain Collective pass is worth it if you’re hitting premium resorts like Aspen or Jackson Hole
- Buy any season passes early – prices typically increase as winter approaches
Kids Ski Free Programs: Many states offer kids’ ski free deals in grades 3-6. I’ve found California, Utah, New Hampshire, Maine, and New York have particularly generous programs.
Mid-Week Magic: We’ve saved up to 40% by skiing Tuesday through Thursday instead of weekends. Plus, shorter lift lines mean more actual skiing time.
Ship Your Gear: Here’s a game-changer I wish I’d known about sooner – services like ShipSkis can actually save you money while reducing stress. Instead of paying airline baggage fees and wrestling with equipment at the airport, they’ll pick up your gear at home and have it waiting at your resort. The cost often equals or beats airline fees, especially for families with multiple bags. Learn more about ShipSkis snow sports gear shipping services here.
Save on Lodging by Booking a Hotel that Offers Community: Gravity Haus, in locations throughout ski country, offers kid and pet friendly hotels, curated experiences, as well as equipment rentals, complimentary hotel nights and even more for those who opt for Gravity Haus membership.

Go Big this Winter Safe and Secure

Go snowmobiling, snowboarding, or snowshoeing on local trails. Have fun in the snow on a tubing run, watch wildlife at a national park like Yellowstone, dogsled or ice fish. Families can easily choose from a ski and snow family vacation at one of North America’s top mountain resorts or a snow fun getaway at a smaller local one.

Photo Courtesy: Allianz

Wherever you go, consider getting travel insurance. Allianz Travel offers the OneTrip Prime and OneTrip Premier plans, which cover kids aged 17 and under for free* when traveling with a parent or grandparent (excluding Pennsylvania residents). Having Allianz Travel Insurance for your ski trip is like having your own ski patrol.

Their OneTrip Prime Plan includes 24/7 travel assistance, emergency medical transportation, baggage loss/damage protection, trip cancellation or interruption coverage, and more — providing you with peace of mind. Ski trips can be costly, so it’s essential to protect your investment.

Related: Get our picks on What to Wear on a Ski Trip – Ultimate Ski Packing List

Celebrate Snow, Ice, & All Things Winter – Montreal en Lumiière

We know that residents of Montreal and Quebec province have long embraced their winter season. At the Montréal en Lumière Festival ( Feb. 27-Mar. 9, 2025) more than 600,000 bundled up visitors celebrate all things winter across the city. There are many free outdoor activities, including skating on the Place des Festivals in downtown Montreal, just a short walk away from the Old Port! For more information on programming, hotel deals and entertainment schedules, visit montrealenlumiere.com

MONTRÉAL EN LUMIÈRE | FEBRUARY 27 TO MARCH 9, 2025 | GASTRONOMIC PROGRAMMING STARTING FEBRUARY 20

Family Ski Resorts Across The US

Thanks to our partnership with Taking the Kids and LittlMye Family Adventure, we present our brand new annual guide to “Fun in the Snow” at our favorite mountain resorts sponsored by Allianz Travel Insurance.

I’ve separated them out by region (New England, NE US, Midwest, Southwest, Rockies, and Pacific Coast) and then by alphabetical order. I’ve also included a few of my personal favorites. With so many great options available for families, it’s easy to find a ski resort that fits your budget and offers an unforgettable experience. Happy Skiing!

Best Family Ski Resorts in the New England

New England, comprising Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont, offers a variety of activities and facilities for families, including ski lessons, tubing, snowmobiling, and more.

Appalachian Mountain Club Highland Center at Crawford Notch

Perfect for families who want an authentic mountain experience beyond just skiing. Appalachian Mountain Club is a non-profit organization that promotes the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the mountains, forests, waters, and trails of America’s Northeast.

The Highland Center is located at the southern base of the Presidential Range in New Hampshire’s Crawford Notch. It provides an authentic mountain experience for families. It offers comfortable lodging, home-cooked meals included for overnight guests, guided trips, and complimentary equipment rentals. Read more about a recent weekend AMC Club getaway here.

Attitash Mountain Resort

Attitash, just outside North Conway, is a fantastic family ski resort in New Hampshire for those who enjoy steep and winding trails. With 68 trails across two mountain peaks, it offers breathtaking views of Mount Washington and the Presidential Mountain Range.

Those steep, winding trails might look intimidating, but they’ve been a fantastic confidence builder for my kids. The views of Mount Washington are breathtaking, and the tree skiing keeps my teenagers challenged.

When here, stay at the Grand Summit Hotel at Attitash —it’s the perfect spot for a sensational ski in/out and snowboard getaway.

Crotched Mountain

Don’t let its smaller size fool you – this mountain packs a punch with night skiing and 100% snowmaking coverage. It’s perfect for families who want to avoid the crowds at bigger resorts.

Skiers and riders here are passionate about the mountain’s 1,000-foot vertical drop. Night skiing is a special experience at Crotched, as all trails are illuminated, and lifts operate well into the evening.

Nearby lodging, dining, and shopping make planning a day trip or an extended stay easy. With its convenient location and affordable prices

Mount Snow Resort

As the closest Vermont resort to New York City and Boston, it’s super accessible. The Carinthia terrain park is where your teenagers will spend most of their tim

As part of the Vail Resorts family, you can expect exquisite dining options, luxurious lodging, and a plethora of off-mountain attractions and activities suitable for families.

Mount Sunapee Resort

Their South Peak learning area is exceptional for beginners. I love that it’s close to Boston but maintains that classic New England charm.

It offers convenient access to the main mountain, with a wide range of lifts and terrain. The beginners’ area has user-friendly magic-carpet lifts and an overhead chairlift for when new skiers are ready to explore further.

Okemo Mountain Resort

The snowmaking coverage here is incredible – 98% of trails. As a mom who’s planned too many trips ruined by poor conditions, this reliability is priceless.

With 122 trails and glades, 20 lifts, and unique features like retractable domes on select lifts, guests can enjoy a comfortable and exciting skiing experience. In addition to skiing, Okemo also offers alternative activities such as ice skating, mountain coaster rides, plenty of lodging options, and special events.

Take advantage of the Epic Pass for added benefits and discounts on various services.

Smugglers’ Notch Resort

My top pick for families with young children. The whole resort feels designed for families, from the comprehensive Snow Sport University to the amazing childcare facilities.

Voted #1 again as Ski Magazine’s pick for families in the Northeast. It offers 78 trails spread across three mountains with something suitable for all levels of skiers. Plus Snow Sports University provides expert instruction in skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing for all ages.

For young snowboarders aged 3-6, Burton Riglet Park offers the ability to develop their skills on crafted snow rollers, mini halfpipe, banked turns, and exciting obstacle courses.

Book a midweek stay to experience the Winter Carnival and Thursday fireworks.

Stowe Mountain Resort

The combination of challenging terrain and excellent beginner areas makes this perfect for families with mixed ability levels. The historic village adds charm to your trip.

I really enjoyed staying at the Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa during the fall. The luxury accommodations were perfect for my family of five, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains made our stay even more special. We especially loved the spa–it was such a relaxing experience.

Sugarbush Village

Nestled in Vermont’s Mad River Valley, the varied terrain across two mountains means everyone can find their happy place. The Cabin Cat Adventures are a unique way to experience the mountain.

Known for its vibrant community spirit and friendly atmosphere, the Alterra-owned resort welcomes the IKON Pass to access two mountains complete with everything from beginner terrain to some of the toughest on the East Coast.

The resort features a robust après-ski scene, special events designed to entertain all ages, a range of dining options, on-site daycare, and ski school offering tailored lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Sunday River Resort

Located just minutes from the picturesque Bethel Village in the majestic Mahoosuc Mountains of western Maine, Sunday River Ski Resort is perfect for families. Eight interconnected peaks mean you’ll never get bored. The reliable snowmaking and variety of terrain make this a solid choice for extended family trips.

As a part of the Boyne resort on the IKON Pass, Sunday River offers 12-hour skiing and riding on Fridays, Saturdays, and select holidays. Additionally, the resort boasts a tubing park, fireworks on most weekends and holidays, and family-friendly entertainment for the little ones.

Best Family Ski Resorts in the Northeast USA

The skiing in the northeast United States beyond New England abounds with opportunities for every skill level.

Holiday Valley Resort

Offering 290 skiable acres, this is a hidden gem in Ellicottville, New York and considered a best value among NE ski resorts. With 60% of terrain suited for beginners and intermediates, it’s perfect for building confidence.

Take advantage of amazing discounts, including half-priced learn to ski or snowboard packages on weekdays throughout January, as well as incredible housing deals. Visit ISkiNY.com, to explore this destination.

Hunter Mountain

Just 2.5 hours from Manhattan, it’s the perfect weekend escape. The learning center is top-notch, and the snowmaking is impressive.

At The Kaatskill Mountain Club, enjoy luxury, your own cooking facilities, a heated pool and easy access to the slopes and base village. For a truly unique experience, try staying in the rustic comfort of one of the three Catskill Mountain Club cabins.

Best Midwest Ski Resort for Families

Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort

Perfect for families just starting out. The shorter runs and excellent ski school make it ideal for building confidence. Being close to Chicago and Milwaukee makes it super accessible.

Best Family Ski Resorts in the Southwest

Taos Ski Valley

The high altitude means reliable snow, and the intimate feel makes it special. The Rio Hondo Learning Center is excellent for young kids.

This mountain resort is home to one of the highest lifts in North America, and it stands out among New Mexico’s alpine and Nordic ski areas. They are the world’s only B Corp ski resort and achieved becoming fully certified Carbon Neutral in 2022.

The base area offers a stylish and upscale hotel called The Blake, featuring 115 rooms and suites. If you’re traveling with extended family, book one of the spacious nearby condos.

Best Family Ski Resorts in Colorado

Aspen Snowmass

The variety across four mountains means everyone finds their happy place. The base village is incredibly family-friendly with plenty of activities.

Beaver Creek

This is where we go when we want to spoil ourselves. The free cookies at 3 PM are legendary, and the perfectly groomed runs are ideal for family skiing.

Beaver Creek is featured in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide Colorado, highlighting its incredible culinary experience. With the Signature Parks collection and the renowned Birds of Prey World Cup race course, Beaver Creek offers incredible terrain for all adventurers. Consider staying at the Westin Riverfront Resort, a great choice with or without kids. Learn more

Breckenridge Ski Resort

The combination of high-altitude terrain and charming downtown makes this a favorite. The Peak 8 base area is perfect for families.

Breckenridge Ski Resort and its hometown, affectionately known as ‘Breck’ to locals and visitors, offer stunning mountain views and 3,000 skiable acres of terrain. This vintage village boasts Five Peaks and a charming Western Main Street, making it practically ski-in, ski-out.

Colorado Gems

Don’t overlook smaller resorts like Eldora, Cooper, and Monarch Mountain. They offer great value and shorter lift lines. Eleven of Colorado’s smaller ski resorts are less expensive and less crowded. They include:

Arapahoe Basin
Cooper (Eileen Ogintz said this about a visit)
Echo Mountain, Denver’s closest ski area less than an hour away
Granby Ranch; Hesperus, 11 miles west of Durango
Monarch Mountain, near Salida; Kendall Mountain Ski Area, within walking distance from historic downtown Silverton
Loveland
Powderhorn in the heart of the Grand Mesa
Purgatory, Sunlight in Glenwood Springs where you can enjoy the world’s biggest hot springs pool.

Crested Butte

Perfect for families who want a more authentic mountain town experience. The variety of terrain is impressive. Crested Butte, a long-time favorite for families, offers an exhilarating experience for skiers and riders. With its untouched powder, majestic peaks, and thrilling terrain, this vibrant town with its unique mountain culture has it all. CBMR, spanning 561 acres of double-black-diamond terrain, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of inbounds extreme skiing and riding in North America.

Eldora

Eldora, located near Boulder, is a charming ski area that offers great value access through the GEMS Card. It attracts locals from the front range for day trips and beginner lessons. Situated just 21 miles from Boulder and less than 50 from Denver, Eldora boasts naturally progressive terrain that appeals to both novice and experienced skiers and snowboarders.

Keystone Resort

Keystone is a winter wonderland, perfect for unleashing your inner child. Their Kids Ski Free program is outstanding. The night skiing and tubing hill add extra entertainment value.

With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, including three peaks, five above tree line bowls, and night skiing, there’s something for everyone.

Monarch Mountain

Monarch Mountain, located in the Arkansas River Valley near Silda, is a Colorado treasure that has been providing authentic ski experiences for decades. We love Monarch because of its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with affordable lift tickets and great terrain for skiing and snowboarding.

Ski Cooper

Ski Cooper is an authentic Colorado ski resort with uncrowded slopes and affordable day passes. Located just outside high-altitude Leadville, this resort features 64 trails and five lifts spread across 480 lift-served acres. Families love it here because there are no lift lines, making it easy to navigate and keep the family together.

Day passes start as low as $30 on Thursdays from January 11 to February 29 when purchased online at least 48 hours in advance. With a base at 10,500 feet and a summit at 11,700 feet, you’ll find soft powder and freshly groomed slopes. Expert skiers can explore the steep tree skiing of the Tennessee Creek Basin area.

Ski Cooper also has a rich history as the training ground for the 10th Mountain Division during World War II. As a non-profit organization, it stands apart from most ski resorts. We had a fantastic visit to Ski Cooper on a blue-sky day. Check out our experience here.

Steamboat Ski Resort

The champagne powder and Western atmosphere make this unique. Their ski school is one of the best we’ve experienced.

The resort offers over 150 trails spread across six peaks, catering to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Families love the Ski & Ride School, which has programs specifically designed for kids and teens. Plus, with multiple on-mountain dining options and a pedestrian-friendly base area with shops and restaurants, there’s plenty of off-slope activities to keep everyone entertained.

Telluride Ski Resort

Telluride is a top-rated ski resort in southwestern Colorado with breathtaking views and unmatched terrain. Families love Telluride for its charming historic town, where they can experience festivals, concerts, and unique dining options.

The free gondola between town and mountain makes logistics easy. The views are unmatched, and the ski school is excellent.

More than 60% of the terrain is for beginners and intermediates, with at least one blue run from every lift, making it a perfect mountain for family skiing and groups with different abilities. The ski school is also right off the gondola in the middle of the Mountain Village.

Vail Ski Resort

Vail is one of the most well-known ski resorts in Colorado, offering unmatched luxury and world-class skiing. The back bowls are legendary, but what makes it great for families is the excellent children’s programs and variety of terrain.

It boasts over 5,300 skiable acres with 195 runs spread across seven legendary bowls. Vail reached its goal of 100% renewable electricity across its North American mountain resorts, and 96% worldwide. It also features three distinct areas: Vail Village, Lionshead Village, and Golden Peak, each with its own unique charm. Read more here.

Winter Park

The Winter Park Express train from Denver makes getting there fun and easy. The seven territories offer something for everyone.

In addition to its skiing offerings, Winter Park is also home to the National Sports Center for the Disabled which provides various programs for individuals with physical and mental challenges.

YMCA Of The Rockies – Snow Mountain Ranch

The Snow Mountain Ranch location provides another opportunity for fun in the snow as a family. Also located about two hours from Denver, the Snow Mountain Ranch offers over 120km of groomed cross-country trails for all skill levels and also offers snowshoe rentals, sledding hills, fat bike rentals, and more. This resort is dog friendy too.

Best Family Ski Resort in Montana

Big Sky Resort

Known as the “Biggest Skiing in America,” it lives up to the name. Despite the challenging reputation, they have excellent beginner areas.

For non-skiers, Big Sky Resort has plenty to offer as well. Families can enjoy activities such as dog sledding in nearby Moonlight Basin, snowshoeing, ziplining tours, climbing walls, ice climbing throughout the Gallatin Valley, and even go winter flyfishing.

Best Family Ski Resort in Wyoming

Grand Targhee Resort

The consistent powder and laid-back atmosphere make this a family favorite. The compact base area means kids can’t get lost.

What truly sets Grand Targhee apart for families is its convenient location just 50 miles away from Jackson Hole. With affordable rates, a welcoming staff, and attentive childcare services, it’s a perfect choice for parents. Childcare is available for infants and toddlers aged 2 months to 5 years (reservation required).

The on-mountain lodging at Teewinot Lodge by Grand Targhee Resort offers a casual atmosphere and reasonable prices. Targhee, boasting an impressive 2,602 acres of pristine terrain and an annual snowfall of 500 inches, is far from small. See our review of Grand Targhee Resort.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is a bucket-list destination for skiers and snowboarders alike. While known for extreme terrain, their kids’ programs are excellent. The nearby wildlife viewing adds another dimension to the trip.

In addition to skiing, Jackson Hole also offers activities such as dog sledding, wildlife safaris, ice skating, snowmobiling tours through Yellowstone National Park, and even heli-skiing for the more adventurous families. For snow tubing, check out King Tubes, Jackson Hole‘s only Snow Tubing Park.

Jackson Hole also offers a variety of ski-in/ski-out accommodations, including luxury hotels and rental homes. With its breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is an ideal destination for family skiing in Wyoming.

Best Family Ski Resort in Idaho

Sun Valley Resort

The combination of historic charm and modern amenities makes this special. The ski school is one of the oldest and best in the country. Often called the “grandfather of American skiing,” Sun Valley Resort is a classic family ski destination and routinely voted a top ski resort in North America by SKI Magazine.

For non-skiers, Sun Valley offers plenty of off-slope activities such as snowmobiling tours through the Sawtooth National Forest, ice skating on the outdoor rink, sleigh rides, and even a bowling alley. And for those interested in improving their skiing skills,

Learn more about Sun Valley from Family Travel Forum’s recent visit.

Best Family Ski Resort in Utah

Alta Ski Area

Located just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City and adjacent to the upscale Snowbird, this skiers-only resort (no snowboarding) offers a more traditional experience. The snow quality is consistently excellent.

Experience the timeless charm of Alta Lodge, an iconic European-style retreat that has been welcoming guests since 1940. Immerse yourself in a semi-inclusive getaway on and off the slopes ensuring a memorable family vacation. Read more about when Taking the Kids visited in 2021.

Brian Head Ski Resort

Situated in Southern Utah near Cedar City, Brian Head Ski Resort’s “Free On-Snow Experience” program is perfect for first-timers. The learning areas are well-designed and staffed by knowledgeable instructors, participants receive valuable information and guidance to quickly develop fundamental skills. This program, suitable for all ages, emphasizes mountain safety and provides useful tips for a successful introduction to skiing or snowboarding.

Brighton Resort

Brighton Resort, located in Big Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City, is a hidden gem for families seeking a more affordable ski trip. The night skiing adds value to your trip. The terrain progression makes it easy to advance skills.

This resort offers over 1,050 acres of skiable terrain and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. With an emphasis on learning and progressing skills, Brighton offers special deals on lessons and rentals.

Deer Valley Resort

Deer Valley is a luxurious ski resort located in the charming town of Park City. Named #1 best ski resort in the U.S. for 10 straight years in the World Ski Awards. This world-renowned resort offers top-notch amenities and services for families to enjoy, including an award-winning ski school/Deer Valley ski lessons and a variety of family-friendly dining options.

The service here is unmatched. While expensive, the grooming and ski school make it worth splurging occasionally.

With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, Deer Valley has something for everyone. From gentle groomed slopes for beginners to challenging mogul runs for experts, families can choose the trails that suit their skill level.

Stay in one of the luxurious slope-side accommodations at Deer Valley, such as The Lodges at Deer Valley or Silver Baron Lodge, for a truly unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to check out the famous Turkey Chili at Snow Park Lodge, a must-try dish during your visit.

Park City Mountain Resort

Park City Mountain Resort, one of the easiest-to-reach and best Western ski areas, is a top destination for families seeking endless fun on and off the slopes. The convenience to Salt Lake City airport and vast terrain make this a no-brainer. The historic Main Street adds charm.

With over 7,300 acres across 6 of skiable terrain parks and an average of 354 inches of snow per year, this resort offers endless opportunities for adventure.

For off-slope excitement, families can head to Park City’s Historic Main Street where they can shop, dine, and explore the unique shops and galleries. And for even more adventure, families can try out other winter activities such as snowmobiling, tubing, and dog sledding.

This town provides a car-free getaway experience with free public transportation options like buses, shuttles, taxis, and ride sharing. Additionally, the National Ability Center offers adaptive recreation programs throughout the year for those with special challenges. Read about Park City here.

Powder Mountain Ski Resort

Powder Mountain, located just 55 miles north of Salt Lake City, is the largest ski resort in the U.S. by skiable acreage. But limited daily tickets mean fewer crowds. The 8,000 acres of terrain variety is impressive.

Snowbird Ski Resort

The challenging terrain and reliable snow make this perfect for advancing intermediates and experts.

Snowbird’s goal is to provide inclusive access to those who may not have the opportunity to spend a day on the mountain. Families and support systems come in all shapes and sizes, and the Kids Freeloader Pass is designed to nurture future generations of skiers and shredders.

Woodward Park City

This a one-of-a-kind action sports hub for families located just 25 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport. This year-round 66,000-square-foot facility offers skiing, snowboarding, tubing, snow biking, cross-country skiing, and more for all ages and abilities.

Families can take advantage of the state-of-the-art Terrain Parks designed for skiers and riders of all levels. With expert instructors and a variety of programs, including group lessons, private lessons, and multi-week sessions, Woodward Park City is an excellent place for families to learn new skills and perfect their techniques.

Best Family Ski Resorts in California

Heavenly Ski Resort

Skiing across two states (California and Nevada) is fun, but it’s the views of Lake Tahoe that make it special. With nearly 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and 97 trails ranging from groomers to chutes, you won’t get bored exploring the mountain. Families can take advantage of the resort’s Ski and Ride School, which offers lessons for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.

For a great stay, the Landing Resort & Spa is perfect! Located in South Lake Tahoe, it offers spectacular views of the lake and the Sierra Nevada mountains. The hotel has many amenities including a full-service spa, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant with delicious food. Additionally, they have free shuttle service to local attractions such as Heavenly Ski Resort and hiking trails.

Kirkwood Mountain Resort

Located just 35 miles from South Lake Tahoe, Kirkwood Mountain Resort is a hidden gem for families seeking a unique ski experience. The remote location means fewer crowds and more powder. The terrain progression is excellent.

Kirkwood’s rugged terrain and abundant snowfall provide an unforgettable experience for avid skiers and snowboarders. The Timber Creek base area offers the perfect environment to enhance your skills, with well-groomed slopes, scenic tree runs, and some exciting gullies. The tight-knit Kirkwood community embraces a ski culture that is deeply rooted in the passion and dedication of its big mountain enthusiasts.

Mammoth Mountain

As the highest ski resort in California, Mammoth Mountain offers families a premier skiing and snowboarding experience. The long season and sunny weather make this perfect for spring break trips. The terrain parks are among the best in the country.

With over 150 trails and 3,100 vertical feet, plus wide-open groomers, challenging chutes, and fun terrain parks, there’s something for everyone at this resort.

Experience the best of both worlds with the Ikon Pass, combining the ultimate stay and play at Palisades Tahoe and Big Bear Mountain Resort. Enjoy a 20% discount on midweek adventures and a 15% discount on weekend getaways. At Mammoth, little ones can thrive in dedicated learning centers, while the whole family can indulge in a plethora of off-slope activities, including tubing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Northstar California at Lake Tahoe

The village setup is perfect for families – everything’s walkable. Their commitment to grooming makes learning easier.

With a variety of accommodation options from luxurious slope-side condos to cozy cabins in the woods, Northstar California offers families a complete and convenient ski vacation. Families can also take advantage of the resort’s Village at Northstar, which houses plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options for all ages.

Palisades Tahoe

Known as the “Spring Skiing Capital”, the resort offers skiing and riding through Memorial Day and frequently continues into the summer months, sometimes even stretching until the 4th of July. The Olympic heritage adds excitement, but it’s the variety of terrain that keeps families coming back.

Palisades Tahoe offers families a massive 6,000 skiable acres across two mountains. Located in the Lake Tahoe region, this resort boasts stunning views and some of the most challenging terrain in California.

With over 170 trails, including wide-open groomers and steep chutes, Palisades Tahoe is perfect for families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Best Family Ski Resorts in Oregon

Hoodoo Ski Area

Located in the Willamette National Forest, Hoodoo Ski Area offers families a unique skiing experience. With over 800 acres of skiable terrain, this resort is perfect for beginners and intermediates looking to improve their skills on the slopes. The night skiing adds value, and the laid-back atmosphere is perfect for families.

Gear up and hit the slopes at Hoodoo Ski Area with FivePine’s Stay & Ski Free Package. The package includes breakfast and passes to Hoodoo by day, and a wine and beer reception in the main lodge by night.

Mount Bachelor

Boasting over 4,300 skiable acres, making it the sixth-largest ski resort in the United States and the largest ski resort in the Pacific Northwest. Located just outside of Bend, Oregon, this family-friendly mountain offers stunning views of the Cascade Range and plenty of fresh powder.

Located just 22 miles from Bend, Oregon, Mount Bachelor is a top destination for families looking for an unforgettable skiing experience. The variety of terrain and reliable snow conditions make this worth the trip. The kids’ programs are excellent.

There are 12 direct flights into the area each day from major skier markets like Denver, San Francisco, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and Portland. Read more about Mt. Bachelor and Bend Oregon here.

Best Family Ski Resorts in Washington State

Stevens Pass Ski Area

Located in the Cascade Mountains, Stevens Pass Mountain Resort is a favorite among Washington families for its diverse terrain and family-friendly amenities. With over 1,000 acres of skiable terrain and an annual snowfall average of over 450 inches, this resort has something for everyone.

The abundant snowfall and varied terrain make this a Pacific Northwest favorite. The night skiing extends your ski day.

Stevens Pass is also home to one of the largest terrain parks in Washington State, with over 100 features for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. And when it’s time to relax, families can cozy up at one of the mountain’s lodging options, which include hotels and cabins.

Tips for Choosing Your Family’s Resort

Before you book your next family ski trip, consider these essential factors that can make or break your vacation:

Transportation: Consider how you’ll get from the airport to the resort and around town.
Ski School Reputation: Good instructors make all the difference. Look for resorts with dedicated learning areas and small class sizes.
Village Layout: The closer lodging is to the slopes, the easier your mornings will be.
Non-Ski Activities: You’ll want options for bad weather days or when kids need a break.
Food Options: Look for resorts with multiple price points and grab-and-go options.

My Final Advice

Don’t just chase the biggest or most famous resort. Consider your family’s specific needs – skiing ability, ages, interests, and budget. Some of our most memorable trips have been to smaller resorts where we felt less stressed about costs and could focus on having fun together.

Pro Tip: Always book ski school and rentals in advance, especially during peak periods. Nothing starts a family vacation off worse than realizing the lessons are full!

For more family travel inspiration, check out our latest posts here:

Don’t forget to invite your friends to our Facebook groups! We would also love to see your vacation pictures!

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- Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App.
LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
- We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners.