The Best Ski Resorts for Families, Vetted by Travel Experts
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Whether you grew up on skis or you're learning as an adult alongside your kiddos, you know there's something special about skiing together as a family.
More than just making the most of winter, taking a ski vacation with your crew offers the opportunity to connect and benefit from outdoor activity, develop a lifelong passion and build resilience and determination, all while taking in spectacular mountain scenery — whether from the chairlift, the slopes or the hot tub. And now with a growing number of schools offering a winter break in February or March, many families are opting for a ski holiday instead of the fail-safe beach getaway that prevailed during spring breaks of days gone by.
When determining the best family ski resorts in the U.S. and across North America, ski aficionados and certified travel experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute looked at a number of criteria. Our ratings and destination recommendations below take into account things like how easy it is to reach the resort (factoring in travel time by plane and by car), resort size and accommodations, terrain (including the number of beginner runs as well as options to progress over the course of your stay), lesson availability, snow quality, temperature, wait times, bonus activities for non-skiers, dining options to keep everyone happy and other unique features and benefits. To find the best ski resorts for families, we also prioritized destinations in the U.S. and Canada that welcome both skiers and snowboarders since many families include a mix of both. (If you are a die-hard skier and don't like mountains that welcome snowboarders, check out the ski-only spots on our list of the best ski resorts.)
We've also tapped several years of real-world evaluations and location vetting from coast to coast, including winners of our just-announced 2024 Family Travel Awards, to pinpoint exactly what matters to real parents and kids. Some picks are time-honored standouts while others represent off-the-beaten-path favorites. In all cases, they've been tested and tested again by experts you can trust.
Keystone, Colorado
It's hard to imagine a better option than Keystone for a family-friendly ski vacation anywhere in North America. From its three sizable peaks to the wide variety of terrain, skiers of all levels will easily find a run they love over its 3,000 acres. Add to that Keystone's low-key vibe, relatively short distance from Denver, an incomparable kids-ski-free deal (for those 12 and under, with two nights of lodging) and other brilliant, cost-saving perks like complimentary wagons to cart around your kids and gear, free parking in many lots and free shuttles, and it all amounts to an A+ destination that won't break the bank. (Note: While shuttle buses are free, drivers aren't shy about tips, and many openly post a QR code to their Venmo.)
Food options on and off the mountain offer something for everyone too. When testing the experience, our reviewers repeatedly returned to the quick-service Timber Ridge Lodge and raved about their meal at nearby Snake River Saloon & Steakhouse. Beyond downhill, Keystone boasts impressive special attractions like glow night snow tubing, giant snow forts that kids can play in, horse-drawn sleigh rides and cross-country skiing.
"Keystone checked all the boxes," said our tester. "We visited during our daughter's winter break in February. I thought the mountain would be rammed with people. To my surprise, I never once had to veer away from anyone. I also highly recommend the sleigh-ride dinner," she continued. "My daughter still talks about the beautiful horses, amazing food and incredible live music."
Getting there: Fly into Denver International Airport (DEN). While a couple of regional airports are closer, Denver International Airport is your best bet for a nicely priced direct flight from most major cities across the country. From there, it's about a 90-minute drive to Keystone.
Where to stay: Opt for Buffalo Lodge in the River Run Village for an easy walk to the River Run Gondola and village dining. Keystone Lodge & Spa is a short drive away (you can take the free shuttle) and has amenities like a heated outdoor pool, ice skating rink and several restaurants. It's ready for a refresh decor-wise, but you can't beat the nightly rate.
Basic snapshot:
139 trails (12% beginner, 39% intermediate, 49% advanced)
One-day lift adult tickets from $169 when you buy ahead online, all kids ages 4 and under ski free, kids ages 12 and under ski free with a two-night stay
Part of Epic Pass network
Ski and snowboard lessons for ages 3 and up
Ski season ends mid-April
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
Explore Whistler Blackcomb Now
At Whistler Blackcomb, you'll discover a winter playground that's unrivaled in North America for its unique location, transparent size (it's the largest ski resort on the continent), temperate weather and seemingly limitless number of things to do for kids and adults alike.
With about 8,200 acres of skiable terrain (and an expansive backcountry) to cater to skiers of all levels, there's no shortage of family-friendly trails. The well-planned Olympic Village at the bottom of Whistler Mountain is another big draw for families. "I loved finishing our last run of the day and skiing straight over to an outdoor patio for après," said our reviewer. "I have great photos of the kids having a giant snowball fight while we sipped ice-cold pints."
Families may also take advantage of the Epic SchoolKids Whistler Blackcomb Pack. This free program provides kids from across Canada and Washington State five days of free skiing and riding at Whistler Blackcomb when they meet certain criteria. While it's too late for the 2023-24 ski season, put it on your radar for next year.
Getting there: Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From there, it's about a two-hour drive on the Sea to Sky Highway. If you rent a car, make sure you get one with the appropriate snow tires or the highway patrol could turn you away.
Where to stay: You can't go wrong at the fabulous (but pricey) Fairmont Chateau Whistler. For families looking to stretch their dollars, consider the Westin Resort & Spa in Whistler Village.
Basic snapshot:
200+ trails (20% beginner, 50% intermediate, 30% advanced)
One-day adult lift tickets from $173 when you buy ahead online, kids ages 6 and under ski free
Part of Epic Pass network
Ski lessons for ages 3 and up, snowboard lessons for ages 5 and up
Ski season ends late April or early May
Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
Explore Park City Mountain Resort Now
With many direct flight options and two solid resorts only minutes away by car, Park City, Utah, is hands down one of the best ski towns in the U.S. When traveling with kids (or snowboarders of any age), Park City Mountain Resort is the obvious choice. (Deer Valley, the other nearby resort, is limited to skiers only and lift tickets, lessons, accommodations and dining all come with the heftier price tags one might expect at a high-end resort.)
"When we got to Park City, I was amazed by the amount of snow," said our reviewer, who visited last year during peak winter. "I've never seen powder like that in the Northeast." The other noticeable draws, especially for beginners, are the large range of terrain over 7,300 acres and ultra-wide runs.
"I’ve been twice and the ski resort is massive, so there’s a run suitable for every age, ski level or style," said another GH tester. "Perhaps best of all, Park City is an Epic Pass resort so you can score great discounts throughout the year that make skiing for the family more affordable. Be prepared for it to be busy during spring break."
Getting there: You can fly direct into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) from more than 70 U.S. cities. From there, Park City is about 40 minutes away by bus, taxi or car.
Where to stay: The Sheraton Park City in downtown and the Sundial Lodge in the heart of Canyons Village offer great family-friendly, reasonably priced accommodations for the area.
Basic snapshot:
330+ trails (8% beginner, 42% intermediate, 50% advanced)
One-day adult lift tickets from $242 when you buy ahead online, kids ages 4 and under ski free
Part of Epic Pass network
Ski lessons for ages 3 and up, snowboard lessons for ages 5 and up
Ski season ends mid-April
Stowe, Vermont
Stowe sits at the base of Vermont's highest peak and comprises two separate mountains, Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, over 435 acres of terrain. It's quiet, cozy and inviting. Think quintessential "Vermont charm" wrapped up in a passionate ski community.
One standout: full-day children's lessons, which allow adults to be on the mountain all day (if they want) and avoid paying for childcare. Keep in mind lessons take place on the Spruce Peak side, where you'll also find a mini village with an outdoor ice skating rink and several restaurants. "You can literally step out of your skis, return your rentals and have something refreshing in your hands within minutes," said one GH tester. "If you stay at Spruce Peak, definitely take advantage of the slope-side ground-floor ski storage. It's brilliant — and so easy, especially with kids in tow."
Don't miss the picturesque town of Stowe, even though it's not right at the base of the mountain like some of our other winning picks. "We 'went out' a couple of nights during our stay," said another GH reviewer. "It's worth the 10-minute drive to leave the mountain and try out some of the beloved local restaurants like The Bench or The Matterhorn. There are regular shuttle buses between the town and the ski area, so getting back and forth is really easy."
Getting there: Fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV), a full-service international airport located in South Burlington, which is just a scenic 40-minute drive away from Stowe. Rental cars and taxis are available in Burlington, Waterbury and Stowe. The drive from Boston is about three hours, while the drive from New York City clocks in at about six hours, without traffic.
Where to stay: The Lodge at Spruce Peak is a wonderful option for families looking for ski-in/ski-out accommodations, in-room kitchenette options, great restaurants and an inviting spa, swimming area and outdoor hot tub.
Basic snapshot:
116 trails (16% beginner, 55% intermediate, 29% advanced)
One-day adult lift tickets from $187 when you buy ahead online, kids ages 4 and under ski free
Part of Epic Pass network
Ski lessons for ages 3 and up, snowboard lessons for ages 5 and up
Ski season ends mid-April
Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
Explore Whitefish Mountain Resort Now
Whitefish Mountain Resort is a low-key, no-fuss independently operated option for families looking to enjoy Montana's famous "Big Sky" views without the high cost or luxury trimmings of other nearby resorts. It's located just west of Glacier National Park in the Flathead National Forest, about four miles from the town of Whitefish (and about 40 miles from GH Family Travel Award-winning, seasonally operated ranch resort Flathead Lake Lodge).
Apart from 3,000 acres of highly varied terrain and notable improvements to its lift network, Whitefish has some of the best rates we could find for lift tickets anywhere in the country (starting at $78 for adults and free for kids ages 6 and under). Other bonus amenities for beginners include plexiglass-covered magic carpets and the Toyota First Time Lesson Package, which combines a beginner-area lift ticket, a lesson for ages 7 and up, equipment rental and other perks for just $89. Use the free S.N.O.W. Bus to get around the resort or head into the town of Whitefish.
Getting there: Unless you're flying from one of 15 major U.S. cities that fly nonstop into Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), you'll likely have to change planes in a hub like Chicago or Denver. But once you land, the ski hill is just 30 minutes away by rental car or shuttle service.
Where to stay: Stay at one of the resort's partner lodges for as little as $150/night (bundle lift tickets with lodging for the deepest discounts) or make Grouse Mountain Lodge your home base and use its free shuttle.
Basic snapshot:
111 trails (20% beginner, 80% intermediate or advanced)
One-day lift adults tickets from $78 when you buy ahead online, kids ages 6 and under ski free
Various season's pass options provide select discounts
Ski lessons for ages 3 and up
Ski season ends mid-April
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Beaver Creek is a smart option for new and intermediate skiers of any age, offering a substantial amount of welcoming terrain over 2,000 acres. The main drawback is its slightly greater distance from Denver when compared with other family-friendly ski spots in the area, like Keystone. It's also smaller, arguably more quaint and less crowded than some neighbors.
Keep in mind that limited slope-side accommodations are reflected in lodging prices, and a number of GH reviewers noted the resort is "expensive, but luxurious, with friendly staff." If you're looking to stretch your dollars, our travel experts recommend staying in the nearby town of Avon and catching a shuttle or driving to and from the mountain, where outdoor parking is free."
Another special feature that delights guests of all ages: Bakers distribute nearly 3,000 fresh-baked chocolate-chip cookies at 3 p.m. daily. For 10- to 18-year-olds in particular, Hawk's Nest Cabin in Beaver Village with its youthful decor, craft mocktails and tons of interactive games is a new hangout spot. We'll add our review once we visit!
Getting there: Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is about a 30-minute drive to Beaver Creek, but it doesn't offer nearly as many direct, nonstop flights as Denver International Airport (DEN). If you fly to DEN, it's about a 2.5-hour drive to Beaver Creek, so be prepared for a longer time in transit.
Where to stay: Good Housekeeping 2024 Family Travel Award-winning Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa — it's the only ski-in, ski-out property at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain, and it makes a perfect home base for anyone enrolled in the ski school.
Basic snapshot:
167 trails (28% beginner, 38% intermediate, 34% advanced)
One-day lift adult tickets from $229 when you buy ahead online, kids ages 4 and under ski free
Part of Epic Pass network
Ski and snowboard lessons for ages 3 and up
Ski season ends mid-April
Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
As the top ski resort in New Hampshire and celebrating its 50th season in operation, Bretton Woods at Omni Mount Washington Resort is a popular ski spot for Northeast families interested in venturing beyond better-known big names like Stowe or Killington.
With 464 acres for skiing and snowboarding, it's comparable in size to Stowe and boasts the highest peak in the Northeast at 6,288 feet. It's also reputed to have the region's most impressive snow, grooming operations and lift network—with a distinctly low-key, independent atmosphere.
But don't mistake its easygoing, local-centric vibe for a lack of appeal or things to do. Once the skis are off, families can enjoy all kinds of activities including a 30-foot-tall indoor climbing wall, guided snowshoeing tours through the woods and parts of the White Mountain National Forest, winter "fat tire" biking, nordic skiing, snow tubing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling and more. You can also ride the scenic gondola for spectacular views of the National Forest.
Getting there: While you're more likely to drive to Bretton Woods than to fly, the closest large airport is Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston. From there, the resort is about a three-hour car ride. It's also about three hours from Burlington, VT, and six hours from the New York City area.
Where to stay: You can't beat the Omni Mount Washington Resort for its convenience. The historically significant "Grande Dame" offers traditional decor, newly updated rooms, an expansive spa and a heated outdoor pool.
Basic snapshot:
63 trails (24% beginner, 29% intermediate, 47% advanced)
One-day lift adult tickets from $82 when you buy ahead online, kids 4 and under ski free
Various season pass options and Omni guests provide select discounts
Ski lessons for ages 4 and up, snowboard lessons for ages 7 and up
Ski season ends in April
Sun Valley Resort, Idaho
Did you know Sun Valley Resort is North America's first destination ski resort and it introduced the chairlift to snow enthusiasts in 1936? Since then the destination has prided itself on impeccable snow grooming, varied terrain, no lift lines and a wide range of family-friendly activities.
Sun Valley's two distinct mountains (Bald and Dollar) comprise over 2,000 skiable acres, inviting first-timers, adrenaline chasers and everyone in between to enjoy a run under mostly clear blue skies and bright sun. (Don't forget your sunscreen!)
When the kiddos are done with ski lessons (note: all lessons happen at Dollar Mountain), you can enjoy a range of incredible activities in and around the resort, including horse-drawn sleigh rides, bowling in the retro alley, arcade games, and outdoor ice-skating. Hit up the Village Station restaurant and pub to relax and refuel in one of its cushy oversize booths.
Getting there: If you live near San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles, Denver, Salt Lake City or Chicago, getting to Sun Valley is quick and easy. Simply fly direct to Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) in Hailey, ID, and catch a free shuttle for the 30-minute drive to the resort. If you live elsewhere, you'll need to connect through a major hub like Denver or Chicago, so expect a full day of travel.
Where to stay: The entire family will feel pampered and tucked in at the stately Sun Valley Lodge, with its iconic round swimming pools (both outdoors and heated).
Basic snapshot:
120+ trails (36% beginner, 42% intermediate, 22% advanced)
One-day adult lift tickets from $113 for Bald Mountain and $75 for Dollar Mountain when you buy ahead online; kids ages 4 and under ski free on Bald Mountain, kids ages 3 and under ski free on Dollar Mountain
Part of Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective networks (with restrictions)
Ski lessons for ages 3 and up
Ski season ends in April
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