Winter is soon here, and for families who love the thrill of skiing, it’s time to start planning that perfect snowy getaway! Picture this: your family bundled up in cosy gear, gliding down snowy slopes, and enjoying après-ski hot chocolates. But where are the best family ski resorts in the USA and Canada to make this dream a reality?
Finding the right family ski resort is more than just picking a place with great snow. It’s about finding a spot where there’s something for everyone—whether that’s beginner slopes for the little ones, challenging runs for the seasoned skiers, or fun activities off the slopes for the whole family. A top-notch family ski resort isn’t just about the skiing; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.
Let’s dive into the best family ski resorts in the USA and Canada, where snow-filled adventures and family fun await!
The Best Family Ski Resorts in the USA
Northstar California Resort, North Lake Tahoe, USA
Best for: Ages 8 to 14, and families who enjoy simplicity
Northstar is ideal for families who appreciate a straightforward, enjoyable skiing experience. With its long green and blue runs and one of the largest terrain parks around, Northstar offers a fantastic setting for all skill levels. Northstar’s charming mountain village is a real gem, featuring an ice skating rink, fire pits, a movie theatre, and fantastic dining spots—don’t miss the donuts at White Rabbit! For some family-friendly shopping, the nearby town of Truckee boasts a range of delightful boutique stores.
Where to Stay: Opt for a spacious rental home or indulge in luxury at the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, which includes exclusive s’mores-making sessions and a top-notch spa.
Deer Valley Resort, Park City, Utah
Best for: First-time skiers and luxury seekers
Deer Valley is perfect for those new to skiing, with its impeccably groomed slopes and excellent ski school. Park City adds to the charm with its lively Main Street and family-friendly attractions like the Utah Olympic Park and enjoy a family dinner at Handle. Don’t forget to visit Utah Olympic Park for an exhilarating bobsled ride!
Where to Stay: The St. Regis Deer Valley offers premium amenities and ski-in/ski-out access, while Goldener Hirsch provides stylish suites and a rooftop pool.
Big Sky Resort, Montana, USA
Best for: Ages 8 to 16 and families craving space
Big Sky Resort has a vast terrain which ensures uncrowded slopes and thrilling runs for everyone. With over 2,300 acres of beginner and intermediate terrain, it’s perfect for families looking to explore. Nearby Lone Mountain Ranch offers additional winter adventures, like horse-drawn sleigh rides. For the seasoned skiers in your group, the chutes and bowls off Lone Peak. Add to that the winter activities at Lone Mountain Ranch, like a charming horse-drawn sleigh ride dinner, and the breathtaking winter vistas of Yellowstone National Park’s geothermal wonders.
Where to Stay: For luxury, Montage Big Sky provides excellent amenities including a bowling alley and arcade. The Summit Hotel is ideal for a more central location with easy access to the main lifts.
Steamboat Ski Resort, Colorado, USA
Best for: Kids ages 5 to 12
Steamboat Ski Resort is a top choice for families with younger kids. With special areas reserved just for beginners and children, plus free lift tickets and rentals for those 12 and under, Steamboat is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The town also hosts the Winter Carnival, full of festive fun!
Where to Stay: The Gravity Haus offers a fresh, fun atmosphere right at the base, complete with a heated outdoor pool and loft rooms perfect for families.
Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont, USA
Best for: Ages 5 to 10
For a quintessential New England ski experience, Stowe Mountain Resort is unbeatable. With its high-speed lift and extensive beginner-friendly terrain, it’s ideal for young skiers. The Adventure Center is a hit with kids, featuring a climbing wall, arcade, and theatre.
Where to Stay: The Lodge at Spruce Peak offers luxury ski-in/ski-out accommodations and a spa that caters to kids.
Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana, USA
Best for: Ages 8 to 12 and nature-loving families
Whitefish Mountain Resort is a hidden gem for families who love the great outdoors. The resort offers intriguing natural features and stunning views of Glacier National Park. The nearby area provides excellent snowshoeing opportunities. Ski past eerie snow-covered trees, experience stunning cloud inversions, and glide through a grizzly habitat (which is off-limits until April to let the bears hibernate undisturbed).
Where to Stay: Snow Bear Chalets offer a unique mid-mountain experience with luxury amenities. For a town-based option, the Firebrand Hotel is centrally located for shopping and dining.
Crystal Mountain, Michigan, USA
Best for: Ages 3 to 8 and Midwest families
Crystal Mountain is perfect for younger kids and families who want a Midwest ski adventure. With playful runs and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s ideal for those looking to stay close to home but still enjoy a great ski experience.
Where to Stay: The Cottages at Water’s Edge and Bungalows at Crystal Glen offer spacious, family-friendly lodgings right at the base of the slopes.
Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado, USA
Best for: Ages 5 to 14 and parents needing some downtime
Telluride Ski Resort offers a high-altitude adventure with both challenging runs and excellent beginner areas. Families love Telluride for its beginner slopes and group lessons catering to kids from ages 5 to 14. But what really makes it special are the fun, kid-focused activities that give parents some well-deserved downtime. Kids can dive into exciting snow camps, try out snowbike training, and enjoy lively après-ski nights just for them. For a change of pace, take a gondola ride to downtown Telluride, where you can explore the historic spots linked to Butch Cassidy, or embark on a thrilling snowmobile tour with Telluride Outfitters to a ghost mining camp.
Where to Stay: The Madeline Hotel & Residences provides convenient access to the slopes and family-friendly amenities like an evening kids camp and an ice rink.
Keystone Resort, Colorado, USA
Best for: Ages 4 to 9 and budget-conscious families
Keystone Resort is known for its family-friendly perks, including free skiing for kids 12 and under with a two-night stay. The resort offers night skiing, ice skating, and massive snow forts for extra fun.
Where to Stay: The Hyatt Place Keystone is a great option for proximity to the base area, while Keystone Lodge & Spa offers added luxury and family amenities.
The Best Family Ski Resorts in Canada
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada
Best for: Older teens and college kids
Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort stands out as a top destination for families with older children. The expansive terrain offers thrilling runs and an exciting après-ski scene, perfect for teens seeking adventure and adults looking to unwind. Don’t miss out on the annual Whistler Cup or a lively evening at Dusty’s!
Where to Stay: For luxury, the Fairmont Chateau Whistler offers spectacular views and ski-in/ski-out convenience. Families will also love the spacious suites at First Tracks Lodge, right near the gondola.
Banff Sunshine Village, Alberta, Canada
Best for: Families with a range of skiing abilities
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff Sunshine Village offers stunning views and a diverse range of terrain. With its snow-covered peaks and friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for families who want to explore together. Beginners will appreciate the gentle slopes, while more advanced skiers can tackle the challenging runs.
Where to Stay: The Sunshine Mountain Lodge is the only ski-in/ski-out hotel at Sunshine Village, offering convenient access to the slopes and spectacular mountain views.
Glen Eden, Ontario, Canada
Best for: Families seeking a budget-friendly option
Glen Eden Ski Resort, located near Toronto, is a great option for families looking for a more affordable ski experience. With a variety of beginner and intermediate runs, it’s an excellent place to introduce kids to skiing or snowboarding. The resort’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for a family day trip.
Where to Stay: While there’s no on-mountain lodging, nearby accommodations in the town of Milton offer cozy options for families, including family-friendly hotels and rental homes.
Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada
Best for: Families who enjoy a European charm
Mont Tremblant is known for its picturesque village and extensive ski terrain. The resort offers a blend of family-friendly slopes and more challenging runs. The charming pedestrian village adds a European flair, complete with boutiques and restaurants that cater to all tastes. There are various activities for kids like dog sledding, snow tubing, and ice skating.
Where to Stay: The Fairmont Tremblant provides luxury accommodations right at the base of the slopes, while more affordable options like the Holiday Inn Express offer comfortable stays within walking distance to the village.
Le Massif de Charlevoix, Quebec, Canada
Best for: Families who love scenic beauty and varied terrain
Le Massif de Charlevoix offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and a mix of terrain suitable for all skill levels. The resort is known for its friendly atmosphere and less crowded slopes, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a more relaxed ski experience.
Where to Stay: For a closer option to Le Massif de Charlevoix, consider staying at Hôtel & Spa Le Germain Charlevoix. This upscale hotel offers luxurious accommodations and is located in the heart of the Charlevoix region, providing convenient access to the resort and local attractions. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Auberge La Grande Maison in Baie-Saint-Paul offers comfortable and affordable lodging with easy access to Le Massif.
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, British Columbia, Canada
Best for: Families with adventurous teens
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is known for its thrilling terrain and stunning mountain views. It’s ideal for families with older children or teens who are looking for more challenging runs. The resort’s laid-back atmosphere and variety of activities make it a fantastic destination for family adventure. Families heading to Kicking Horse will love the convenience of having everything they need in one spot. The central village, close to the gondola base, features a daycare, snow school, a dedicated kids’ learning area, a tube park, and a charming little skating rink—all just a short stroll away.
Where to Stay: The Palliser Lodge offers convenient ski-in/ski-out access and comfortable accommodations, perfect for families looking to be close to the action.
From towering peaks to charming ski towns, these family ski resorts in the USA and Canada offer something for every family. Pack your gear, gather the kids, and get ready for a winter adventure your family will treasure for years to come!
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