When it comes to packing for a family ski trip, you have to have a game plan. It is no small feat to take the entire family skiing, especially if you own all your own gear. That’s why I over the years I have built up such an extensive ski trip packing list. I’ve broken this list into sections because you will need certain items just to ski, others if you are staying in a hotel, and even more if you are driving to the mountain.

Packing List For skiing

Snow boots

Ski pants

Ski jacket

Helmet

Goggles or Sunglasses

Gloves

Thermals

Fleece

Hat

Scarf or another neck protector like a buff/neck gator

Warm socks

Hot hands and hot feet

Skis

Ski boots

Ski poles

Snowboard

Snowboard boots

Sunscreen

Chapstick

Kleenex

Backpack

Snacks

Camera, preferably waterproof camera or even better a GoPro.

Camera accessories

Memory cards

Cell phone

Charger

Prescription medicine

First aid kit with the following: non-aspirin pain reliever, gas-relief tablets, antacids, antidiarrheal medicine, an antihistamine for allergies, bandages, candied ginger for motion sickness, mild laxative, thermometer.

Packing List for the Hotel

If you are staying over night somewhere there are more things you will need. You can see our general Packing list for a Hotel printable.

Pajamas

Air mattress – In case the hotel room doesn’t have enough beds.

Pump

Swimsuit

Hot cocoa mix

Snacks

Chargers

Travel Foam Roller

For The Car

Tire Chains – In case the roads require chains.

Cat Litter – Take a coffee can filled with cat litter to create temporary traction under the car wheel in the snow.

Mini Shovel – In case you need to remove snow from around the car. 

Optional

Sled

Hiking poles

Track your skiing

If you want to track how you are skiing, check out the Ski Tracks app. I use the free version to track how fast, how far, and how long I ski for.

Our favorite places to ski are:

Whistler British Columbia Travel Guide

Weekend Ski Trip to Bend, Oregon

Mt. Hood Skibowl

Ski Dubai

Things to do on Mt. Hood

The post Ski Trip Packing List for Families appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Sun Valley is best known for its ski resort and is most likely the reason you are visiting the area. In fact, they were the #1 ranked ski resort in the West by SKI Magazine last year. Because of this, we are going to start out with all the ski resort information. After that, we will break down other things to do, restaurant suggestions, and lodging recommendations.

They have large lifts and a gondola, making it easy to take kids up to the top of the slopes.

Sun Valley Ski Resort

Dollar Mountain Lift Tickets

Full-Day: Ages 13 – 64 $135, Seniors 65+ $105, and Child 12 and under $99

Bald Mountain Lift Tickets

Lessons

The lessons offered at Sun Valley are extensive. We had two instructors who skied with us all day. One was a snowboarder so he took one of the kids to practice snowboarding all day. Nothing beats one on one instruction. These private lessons start at $1,049.

Rentals

You can get rentals onsite. You can rent Skis, Boots, Poles & Helmet for $or a Snowboard, Boots & Helmet for $71 and up depending on the type of skis. Kid rentals are only $47.

Be sure to check out our Ski Trip Packing List for Families to make sure you remember everything you need.

Trail Map

You can find both maps here.

Mountains

There are two ski mountains in Sun Valley, Dollar Mountain, and Bald Mountain.

Dollar Mountain

Dollar Mountain at Sun Valley Ski Resort is a haven for beginners and families, offering a welcoming and nurturing environment to learn and enjoy the sport of skiing and snowboarding. This mountain is celebrated for its gentle, well-groomed slopes and user-friendly terrain, making it an ideal setting for those new to winter sports or for families with young children.

The resort features a top-notch ski school with experienced instructors who provide personalized lessons, ensuring a fun and safe learning experience. In addition to its beginner-friendly runs, Dollar Mountain also boasts several progressive terrain parks, where more experienced skiers and snowboarders can hone their skills on jumps, rails, and boxes.

The smaller scale of Dollar Mountain creates a more intimate and less intimidating atmosphere, perfect for building confidence and skills before tackling larger slopes. With its focus on learning and family fun, Dollar Mountain at Sun Valley Ski Resort stands out as a premier destination for families and beginners eager to embrace the joys of skiing and snowboarding in a supportive and scenic environment.

Bald Mountain

Bald Mountain, affectionately known as “Baldy” by locals, stands as the crown jewel of Sun Valley Ski Resort in Idaho, offering a premier skiing experience for enthusiasts around the world. Renowned for its consistently smooth, powdery slopes and minimal wait times, Baldy boasts a diverse range of runs that cater to all skill levels, from gentle, meandering paths for beginners to challenging, steep terrain for expert skiers.

The mountain’s impressive vertical drop and expansive terrain, coupled with Sun Valley’s state-of-the-art lift system, ensure a thrilling and efficient day on the slopes.

Off the trails, Baldy’s summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Wood River Valley, making it not just a skier’s paradise, but a haven for those who appreciate the serene beauty of alpine landscapes. 

Lodges at Sun Valley

There are several lodges on the mountain where you can grab lunch or a drink. 

Things to do in Sun Valley

Sun Valley, Idaho, offers a wealth of activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, making it a versatile destination for all types of travelers. Here’s a list of things to do in Sun Valley that don’t involve hitting the slopes:

1. Ice Skating: Enjoy gliding across Sun Valley’s iconic outdoor ice rink, suitable for all skill levels and a favorite among both locals and visitors.
2. Snowshoeing: Explore the serene winter landscapes of Sun Valley on snowshoes, a peaceful way to connect with nature and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
3. Cross-Country Skiing: Try your hand at Nordic skiing with miles of well-groomed trails winding through the stunning scenery of the Wood River Valley.
4. Sleigh Rides: Experience a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride, a romantic and family-friendly activity that offers a unique way to see the snowy countryside.
5. Spa and Wellness: Indulge in some relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Sun Valley’s luxurious spas, offering a range of treatments to soothe post-adventure muscles.
6. Cultural Experiences: Visit the Sun Valley Museum of Art or catch a performance at the Sun Valley Opera House, showcasing a variety of artistic and cultural events.
7. Snow Tubing: A fun and exhilarating activity for all ages, snow tubing is a great way to enjoy the winter snow in a more relaxed setting.
8. Shopping and Dining: Explore Sun Valley’s charming boutiques and shops, followed by a meal at one of the area’s excellent restaurants or cozy cafes.
9. Photography and Scenic Tours: Capture the beauty of the Idaho mountains and valleys on a photography tour, or take a scenic drive to enjoy the vistas.
10. Fat Biking: Rent a fat bike and pedal your way through snowy trails, a unique and increasingly popular winter activity.
11. Fly Fishing: For a unique winter experience, try fly fishing in the nearby rivers, a peaceful activity amidst beautiful surroundings.
12. Hot Springs Visits: Take a short trip to one of the many natural hot springs near Sun Valley, where you can relax in warm, mineral-rich waters.
13. Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding, an unforgettable way to explore the snowy landscapes, led by a team of enthusiastic sled dogs.
14. Yoga and Fitness Classes: Join a yoga or fitness class to stay active and centered during your vacation, with many options available throughout Sun Valley.
15. Wildlife Watching: Embark on a wildlife watching adventure to see local animals such as elk, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.

Summer Activities – In the summer, enjoy incredible hiking, horseback riding, and biking through over 400 miles of trails, as well as fishing, golfing, and more. There’s even a year-round ice skating rink!

Where to Eat in Sun Valley

There are a lot of Sun Valley restaurants to choose from in town, on top of what is offered at the mountain.

Ketchum Grill

Ketchum Grill is a Sun Valley favorite, known for its delicious steaks and friendly service. The restaurant has a cozy, lodge-like feel and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Be sure to try the bison ribeye!

Pioneer Saloon

Pioneer Saloon is an iconic Sun Valley eatery, housed in an old stagecoach stop from the 1800s. The restaurant is famous for its juicy burgers and hand-cut fries, and it also has a great selection of local beers on tap.

Sawtooth Club

The Sawtooth Club is a popular après-ski spot, located right at the base of the ski area. The menu features classic American fare such as wings, nachos, and cheeseburgers, and there are also a few vegetarian options available.

Ram Restaurant & Brewery

The Ram Restaurant & Brewery is a great option for those looking for a hearty meal after a day on the slopes. The menu features a variety of hearty soups, sandwiches, and burgers, as well as a selection of house-brewed beers.

Gondola Pizza

Gondola Pizza is the perfect spot for grabbing a quick slice after hitting the slopes. The pizzeria offers both traditional and gourmet pies, and there’s also a full bar with beer and wine available by the glass or pitcher.

Wrap City

Wrap City is a great option for those looking for a quick and healthy meal on the go. The restaurant offers wraps made with fresh ingredients and whole wheat tortillas, as well as salads and soups.

Where to Stay in Sun Valley

Sun Valley Resort

The Sun Valley Lodge is the perfect place to stay if you want to be in the heart of all the action. The lodge is located right in the center of Sun Valley, just steps from all the best shops, restaurants, and bars. The lodge also has its own ski school and rental shop, so you can hit the slopes as soon as you arrive. Plus, you can take advantage of the swimming pools.

Shopping in Sun Valley

Gold Mine – If you need ski gear, but do not want to pay top dollar head here to shop for used gear. They’ve got a pretty good selection, so chances are high you will find what you need.

Sun Valley FAQ’s

What time is it in Sun Valley?

Sun Valley is on Mountain time, so one hour later than Pacific Time.

Where do I find the Sun Valley snow report?

You can find the daily snow report at https://www.sunvalley.com/mountain-snow-report/

Where to fly into to get to Sun Valley?

There is a small airport just south of town and a few major airports fly into it. If you need to use a major airport we suggest flying into Boise or Salt Lake City. Be sure to rent a car that has AWD.

How far is Sun Valley from Boise?

It is 155 miles, so 2 hours and 45 minutes drive time.

More Fun Places to Ski in Idaho

Pomerelle Ski Resort

Magic Mountian

Soldier Mountain Ski Resort

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Sun Valley Ski Resort appeared first on Mommy Travels.

During our last ski trip to Idaho, we ended up skiing for a day at Magic Mountain. Although it was the smallest ski resort we visited during the trip, we still had just as much fun! Sometimes the smaller mountains are just more fun. Shorter lines and less people on the trails means more ski time!

Magic Mountain Ski Resort

Lift Tickets

• Full Day Adult (18+): $39; Kids Ticket (7-17): $29
• Half Day Adult (18+): $30; Half Day Kids Ticket (7-17): $22
• Full Day Senior (70+)/Military/Police: $28
• Half Day Senior/Military/Police: $22
• Kids Under 6: Free with paying adult

Season Passes

• Adult 10 Punch Card (18+): $350
• Adult 5 Punch Card (18+): $175
• Junior 10 Punch Card (age 7-17): $250
• Junior 5 Punch Card (age 7-17): $125

Lessons

They do offer lessons, which if I am honest I was surprised. The place is tiny but they offer so much anyway. They only have ski lessons, no snowboarding lessons. 

Rentals

They do offer an on-site rental shop where you can do a half-day or full-day ski or snowboard rental.

• Skis Full Day: $20
• Skis Half Day: $18
• Snowboard Full Day: $25
• Snowboard Half Day: $23
• Helmet: $5
• Poles: $5

In addition to regular ski and snowboard rentals, they also have other items you can rent. 

• Snow Bike: $25
• Snow Shoe: $10
• Cross Country Skis: $10
• Season Rentals: $89

Be sure to check out our Ski Trip Packing List for Families to make sure you remember everything you need. 

Trail Map

Tubing Hill

Next to the small restaurant is a tubing hill. The tubing hill must be a lot of fun because there were loads of people there. Seemed like there were twice as many people there to tube as there was to ski. 

Things to do near Magic Mountain

To be honest there is not that much around this area. You will have to head back to Twin Falls to find things to do. I did hear that the area has good snowmobile trails, here is a trail map. 

Where to Eat near Magic Mountain

Although Magic Mountain was the smallest ski resort we visited during our trip to Idaho, some of us would argue that it had some of the best food. With classic options to choose from, burgers, fries, chicken tenders, and other choices, the food was simple and delicious. There is nowhere else around here to eat so you either need to bring food with you or plan to eat at the mountain’s restaurant. 

Where to Stay Near Magic Mountain

Do yourself a favor and get a vacation rental through VRBO,  this will be by far the best option. There is only one motel in Kimberly, so if you want to stay in a hotel you will need to plan on staying in Twin Falls. They’ve got a good Best Western there, a few Hilton properties, and a few Marriott properties. You can scroll through them all here. 

Magic Mountain FAQs

What time is it at Magic Mountain?

Magic Mountain is on Mountain time, so one hour later than Pacific Time. 

Where do I find the Magic Mountain snow report?

You can find the daily snow report at  

Where can I fly into to get to Magic Mountain?

The two closest major airports are Boise or Salt Lake City. There are some smaller airports that are much closer, like Twin Falls. Be sure to rent a car that has AWD. I rented a Jeep and that worked well. 

How far is Magic Mountain from Boise?

161 miles

How far is Magic Mountain from Salt Lake City?

224 miles which is a 3.5 to 4-hour drive depending on the weather. 

More Fun Places to Ski in Idaho

Soldier Mountain

Pomerelle

Sun Valley Ski Resort

The post Magic Mountain Ski Resort appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Best Ski Boot Bag for Air Travel

After a lot of research, we have compiled this list so you don’t have to waste time looking for the best option. Here’s a look at the top ski boot travel bags. 

1. Athalon Everything Boot Bag

An Athalon backpack is the best ski boot bag with many favorable features. It comes with one zipper, two ventilated side pockets and a main compartment. There is a front pocket for headphones. In addition, the bag is durable with a polyester build, and you can use this product for snow skiing, snowboarding, and air traveling.

Main features

• A waterproof PVC bottoms
• Reflective piping for increased visibility
• Made with polyester
• Waterproof back
• Best for keeping ski boot, helmet, and gloves

Pros

• Padded back
• Easy to carry with top and front handles
• Fits boots up to Size 13 men
• You can carry a jacket with a bungee cord
• Separate compartments for belongings

2. Sportube Cabin Carry on Boot Bag

Sportube backpack is your great companion while travelling or skiing. It will accommodate your accessories along with ski boots, helmets, and gloves. It’s durable and comes with a spacious compartment. 680D Polyester Ballistic Material is used to make this product, and the bag has a 44 lb capacity.

Main features

• Strong and lightweight
• 680D Polyester Ballistic Material
• Perfect for ski and snowboard
• Comes with a contoured shoulder
• Padded back

Pros

• Comparatively large and durable
• It weighs around 27 lbs
• Facilitated with multiple pockets
• Has side pockets and side holders

Cons

• This model doesn’t have wheels

3. Select Sportbags Team Pack SKI Boot Bag

Select Sportbags has made this product for the people who love to travel. Hence, it’s durable and lightweight to detail your needs. Its mesh flap can hold a helmet and the inner compartment is suitable for ski boots. There are multiple pockets and hangers to meet your demands.

Main features

• Multiple pockets
• Adjustable top lid
• Mesh flap
• Dimensions are 12” x 10” x 21”

Pros

• You can wear it easily
• Spacious and sturdy
• You can hold it from top

Cons

• Back is not padded

4. Transpack XT1 Ski Boot Bag

Transpack is known for providing quality products. Its ski boot bag is made with water-resistant coated 600 denier polyester material, which means you can use this bag without any issues. The side pockets are airy and come with water drainage grommets. So, it’s a closed-type bag with padded back support.

Main features

• Isosceles storage
• Durable and sturdy
• Coated with 600 denier polyesters
• Comes with central and side pockets
• Foam padded bag

Pros

• Water-resistant and spacious
• Side ski boot pockets
• Water drainage grommets
• External pockets for gear 

Cons

• Internal storage is less because of its triangular design

5. Swix Tri Pack Norwegian Ski Boot Bag

Swix backpack is exceptional with good features. It comes with a spacious front compartment, a u-shaped opening, and the side ventilated pockets are for boots. There are water grommets, and the bottom is fully padded. In addition, you can keep your accessories inside pockets.

Main features

• Large main compartment with u-shaped opening
• Two side pockets for ski boots
• Padded back panel and bottom
• Front zipper compartment
• Smaller pockets for storage

Pros

• Comfortable and secure
• Padded bottom to protect the gears
• Frame sheet help to distribute the load
• Side grommets to hold the boots

Buyer’s guide

When buying the best ski boot bag for air travel, it’s better to choose the product that could meet your demands and hold the maximum capacity with lightweight built. Here are some factors that could help you buy the best product.

Durability

The back must be durable enough to serve you for many years. It should have multiple pockets and ideally a spacious compartment that can accommodate your accessories along with your ski boots. So, better to buy the bag with external slings and side pockets.

Composition

It’s essential to know that back is made with high-quality material. Polyester and mesh are considered reliable materials for a backpack. 

Ease of use

The product must have padded support at the back and bottom to support your back and gears. 

Picking the best ski boot bag for air travel can be a tough decision. With all of the different features and options on the market, it’s hard to know which one is right for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ve gone over some of the things you should keep in mind when choosing a ski boot bag for air travel. We hope this information has been helpful and that you are now able to make an informed decision about which ski boot bag is right for you.

Read Next:

Best Jeep Roof Top Tents

6 Best Noise Machines for Sleep

The post Best Ski Boot Bag for Air Travel appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Thanks to a great Ski and Snowboard School and an unmatched vertical descent, the Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is the best Colorado ski resort for families. However, there is hot competition with nearby resorts offering unique experiences too. 

If you are road-tripping to a resort from Denver, your mountain adventure officially begins in Golden, CO – the closest mountain town to Denver. There are plenty of memorable things to do in Golden to kick your trip off right.

But for now, we take to the slopes and discuss the top family-friendly ski resorts in Colorado below.

Best Family Ski Resorts in Colorado

The availability of gear rentals, ski instruction, and the number of low-difficulty routes are all things you should consider when looking for a family-friendly ski resort. We dive into the best ski resorts in Colorado, focusing on green, blue, and red routes. 

However, if your family enjoys tackling black diamond routes, there are a handful at each resort. Grab your ski poles, and let’s go!

Aspen Snowmass

This ski resort is made up of four expansive ski areas in the Rocky Mountains. While there are no green runs on the mountain, your children will be ready to tackle the blue slopes after their first ski lesson. Alternatively, the Buttermilk ski area within Aspen features miles of beginner-friendly trails and terrain parks for the pros.

A major factor that attracts skiers to this area is the ski-in ski-out lodging and ease of traveling around. You and your family can effortlessly move between the four mountains to explore across the valley with access to more than 3,000 acres of excellent ski terrain.

The Little Nell is Aspen’s only Five-Star, Five-Diamond, ski-in/ski-out hotel. It features luxurious amenities, personalized service, breathtaking mountain views, renowned dining, and spacious accommodations. 

Keystone

This resort is ideal for beginners, thanks to the groomed slopes and professional yet light-hearted ski instruction. If you are one for early morning and late-night skiing, Keystone offers the longest ski day in the state of Colorado.

The resort offers access to three mountain peaks tucked away in the White River National Forest. You can explore over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain across 128 runs. The resort features 20 lifts, five bowls and is less than two hours from Denver International Airport.

In addition to great slopes, snow tubing, and ice skating, Keystone has the world’s largest snow fort that consists of tunnels, slides, and mazes. And if you and your family members are experienced skiers, you can also enjoy the A51 Terrain Park. 

Consider staying at the resort’s lodging for more than two nights to enjoy free ski passes for your kids. You can also find plenty of incredible Colorado cabins with hot tubs for a relaxing soak after a long day on the slopes.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek offers families an entertaining vacation with weekly fireworks to celebrate the ski season! The Haymeadow learning area is perfect for beginners, and there are 150 runs across more than 1,800 skiable acres for intermediate and advanced skiers. The snowmaking system at Red Buffalo Park and the ski school keep the beginner slopes in excellent condition.

You can choose between ski-in/ski-out accommodation or staying in the suburbs and using the free shuttle bus system to the main bus stop. Beaver Creek is only a two-hour drive from Denver and offers long, well-groomed runs accessible by fast lifts.

Looking to unwind? Visit the Beaver Creek Village performing arts center for an entertaining show or a skate at the ice rink. 

Winter Park

As Colorado’s longest continually operated ski resort, Winter Park offers history alongside state-of-the-art ski equipment. You can explore more than 3,000 skiable acreages on 166 runs using 25 lifts. As one of the skiing resorts nearest to Denver, it is easily accessed via the express train with a  two-hour trip.

Winter Park has plenty of beginner runs and progressive terrain for all skiers. Is this your first family ski trip? Join a private lesson, and you’ll quickly progress from green routes to blue and even red ones. The resort has a tubing park, ski-in ski-out lodging, restaurants, and shops to help round out your incredible trip! 

The high-speed Sunnyside Lift on the backside of the mountain can comfortably carry a family of up to six to the top. The resort has snow-making machines which keep the main slope in tip-top shape. A notable part of Winter Park is its longest run, covering 5.1 miles over a descent of 2,610 ft.

Vail

Vail is the largest ski resort in Colorado with over 5,200 skiable acres. But the wide groomed terrain with distinct learning zones makes it a perfect resort to learn to ski. Note that the ski school, however, only teaches children seven and older. Vail has three different villages and is about two hours drive from Denver.

After skiing, you can enjoy the ice rink, snow tubing, or a trip on the gondola. The best part of Vail Ski Resort is the free snowshoeing tours for ages ten and up from the Nature Discovery Center. Here you’ll learn about the natural surroundings and the Rocky Mountains. 

Manor Vail Lodge is a condominium hotel, is located just steps from the slopes of Vail Village and Golden Peak. The lodge includes a complimentary ski valet, 20% off ski rentals, and daily breakfast, hot cocoa, and cookies.

Tivoli Lodge has the slopes at its backdoor and guests will find easy access to Vail’s winter fun, from snowshoeing to snow tubing, ice skating, and more. After a day on the slopes, enjoy the lodge’s afternoon tradition of complimentary fresh baked cookies, hot chocolate, hot cider, and tea. Guests also have daily access to Dryland Fitness & Spa with fitness classes.

Copper Mountain

Only an hour and a half from Denver, Copper Mountain offers an affordable ski holiday for your family. There are more than 25 beginner trails and more than 30 intermediate ones. If you are an experienced skier, there are more than 70 advanced and expert runs to tackle.

At the base of the resort, you’ll find the tubing carousel, mini tubing hill, and the Rocky Mountain Coaster. There is also a snow den with tunnels for children to explore. A Kids Night Out program offers three hours of childcare to give parents a well-deserved rest in the evening.

If you want to share an experience with your family, visit the West Lake ice skating rink or try the Alpine Rush Zip Line 30 feet in the air.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs offers just under 3,000 acres of skiing and some incredible thigh-burning long runs. Here you can enjoy night skiing, natural hot springs, tubing, ice skating, and a mountain coaster with your family.

Book a full or half-day private lesson to get your family skiing in no time. Each Friday night during the ski season is celebrated with fireworks.

No matter where you stay, you can conveniently reach the slopes using the Red Wagon program. Set off on a four-hour drive to the resort from Denver or fly directly to Steamboat Springs Airport. 

Purgatory 

Located in Durango, Purgatory Ski resort offers an incredible festive season experience. After skiing on the slopes, your children can climb aboard the train for a trip to the ‘North Pole’. This Christmassy ride includes hot cocoa and a reading of the Polar Express. 

You can also take a sleigh ride behind a draft horse through a snow-covered forest with stunning mountain views.

Plus, for every paying adult, a kid under the age of 12 can ski for free.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is less than two hours from Denver and offers beginner skiers gentle green trails at the base of Peak 8 and Peak 9. The relaxed pace is ideal for families learning to ski together. There is a great daycare service for those youngsters who are not yet ready to hit the slopes. 

The resort has an ice-skating rink, sled hill, and an alpine slide. The resort is located at a high altitude and covers 2,908 acres of skiable terrain with 187 trails with 34 lifts. Your intermediate and expert family members will be kept busy with a seemingly limitless amount of blue runs.

Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort

Is your family superstitious? Alongside comfortable ski slopes, slope-side lodging, and a hot spring, there are ghosts to discover near Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort. Consider staying at the haunted Hotel Colorado during your visit to Glenwood Springs on your family ski trip. 

Often a family ski trip will set you back a pretty penny! But Sunlight Mountain Ski Resort is one of the most affordable ski resorts in Colorado. It is 170 miles from Denver and offers affordable lessons, too. In fact, for every paying adult, a child 12 years old and under can ski for free!

Telluride

This Ski Resort is set in the San Juan mountains near a historic mining town. While getting there requires a six-hour drive from Denver, this remote area of Colorado is spectacular and a great option for families traveling from Texas.

It is an ideal ski resort for kids and families of all skill levels. Telluride offers routes for all abilities and has a continuous descent of more than 4,000 feet from the top of Gold Hill.

When to Visit Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in Colorado

While winter is the obvious choice of season, many of the ski resorts on our list offer summer activities too! The school holidays during fall break, Thanksgiving break, and Christmas break are typically the busiest periods.

Opening and closing dates change annually depending on snowfall. Typically, Keystone ski resort is the first to open during October, and Sunlight Mountain ski resort is the last to open during December. If the snowfall is slow to arrive, ski resorts may limit access to some ski lifts during November. 

Final Thoughts on Colorado Ski Resorts for Families

When looking for a family-friendly ski resort in Colorado you are spoilt for choice. If you are aiming for just a weekend away, consider some of the fantastic options near Denver mentioned above. 

Most importantly, remember to book your ski passes ahead of time to ensure you have access to the best slopes!

Read Next:

Ski Trip Packing List for Families

Pomerelle Ski Resort in Idaho

The post Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Families appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Pomerelle Ski Resort

Although, Pomerelle is a small ski resort I promise you will be skiing all day. We had so much fun we extended our day and night skied for several hours. During the day both lifts run, but at night they only run one lift. I highly recommend only taking a car up here with AWD or 4WD. I had to use 4WD extensively coming down the mountain.

One of the best times to ski here is after the sunsets. During night skiing there’s hardly anyone on the mountain!

Lift Tickets

Full-Day: Adult $48, Child $35 (Children 6 and younger are free with a paying adult.)

Half Day: Adult $40, Child $30

Magic Carpet only $17

Season Passes

Pomerelle has an odd season pass pricing system. The more people in the family get a season pass the cheaper the pass. The first pass is $450, the second $410, the third $370, and the fourth $330. Any family members past that are $330. Children ages 7 – 12 are only $295. 

Lessons

The ski and snowboarding lessons here are excellent. They have private lessons and group lessons. Classes Depart at 10:30 am and 1:30 pm. They are for 7 years of age and older. All abilities, skier or boarder. Group lessons start at $40 and private lessons start at $65. 

Rentals

You can get rentals onsite. You can rent Skis, Boots, Poles & Helmet for $30 or a Snowboard, Boots & Helmet for $30. Kid rentals are only $15. 

Be sure to check out our Ski Trip Packing List for Families to make sure you remember everything you need. 

Trail Map

Where to Eat Near Pomerelle

I recommend that you plan to eat lunch and dinner at the lodge. There are other places once you get down the mountain but depending on when you visit they may not be open. The day we were in the area we couldn’t find an open restaurant.

During the day there’s an outside grill serving hamburgers and hotdogs. We had the hamburgers with the pepper toppings and they were delicious and filling. The outdoor grill does have drinks and cocktails as well.

Inside the lodge is another restaurant with lots more options and cheaper than the outdoor grill. The chili cheese fries and hot chocolate make a good afternoon snack. The West Texas girl inside me was thrilled to see steak fingers on the menu! You can see the menu pictured above.

Piggy Sue BBQ – A delicious food truck in Albion. 

Things to do near Pomerelle

Durfee Hot Springs –  a natural warm spring operating with 2 hot tubs, 1 kiddie pool, & 1 large lap pool, in Almo, Idaho.

Snowmobile at Mount Harrison – Located near Pomerelle Mountain Resort and accessed by Howell Canyon. Here you will get incredible panoramic views of the valley below and reliably deep powder.

Where to Stay Near Pomerelle

Finding somewhere close to Pomerelle can be somewhat difficult since it’s a sparsley populated area. 

Almo Inn

This is a small rustic-looking hotel. It is pictured above. It’s located just south of Pomerelle in Alma. When we stayed here there were no restaurants open and we hadn’t planned in advance for this. So, if you stay here plan accordingly. If you get in late it can be a little confusing which room is yours or where you are supposed to check-in. There’s nowhere to check-in. Look for the post-it note on the door with your name on it. We stayed in the Buffalo Bill room. It’s two stories with a kitchenette, master bedroom with a king bed and full bath. Upstairs is a bedroom with 2 full beds, another bathroom and rear access with balcony. (Pictured above.)

Pomerelle FAQ’s

Where is Pomerelle?

The address is 961 E Howell Canyon Rd, Albion, ID 83311.

What time is it at Pomerelle?

Pomerelle is on Mountain time, so one hour later than Pacific Time. 

Where do I find the Pomerelle snow report?

You can find the daily snow report at on their website at http://www.pomerelle.com/conditions/index.htm.

Where can I fly into to get to Pomerelle?

The two closest major airports are Boise or Salt Lake City. There are some smaller airports that are much closer, like Twin Falls.  Be sure to rent a car that has AWD. 

How far is Pomerelle from Boise?

It is a 2 hour and 58-minute drive from Boise to Pomerelle. 

How far is Pomerelle from Salt Lake City?

It is a 2 hour and 43-minute drive from Salt Lake City to Pomerelle. 

More Fun Places to Ski in Idaho

Sun Valley

Magic Mountian

Soldier Mountain

The post Pomerelle Ski Resort appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Soldier Mountain Ski Resort

The resort has two chairlifts reaching heights up to 7,177′ and a magic carpet for the little ones or beginners to learn on. They offer a nice assortment of green, blue, and black trails. They have 36 runs. Because of the nearby airbase, Mountain Home AFB, they offer a good military discount. 

Lift Tickets

Full-Day Ticket: Adult $47, Child $27

Half a Day Ticket: Adult $40, Child $20

Children 5 and under free.

Full-Day with Military Discount: Adult $30, Child $19

Magic Carpet Only: $16

Season Passes

Season pass holders enjoy a few special perks like two complimentary winter lift tickets to Bogus Basin near Boise and three complimentary tickets to Nordic Valley Ski Resort in Utah. Pass holders also receive a 40% discount at the following ski resorts: Kelly Canyon, Pebble Creek, Magic Mountain, Snow King Mountain Resort, and Beaver Mountain Ski Area!

Adult $435, Child $225

Military Adult $249, Child $129

Seniors ages 70+ $119

Lessons 

Soldier Mountain offers a variety of lessons depending on what day you visit and the snow conditions. For example, if there is not enough snow to run the Magic Carpet there will not be any lessons. You can take a group lesson or a private lesson. Lessons are taught by Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI) certified. Here are the prices:

• (1.5 hr) Private Lesson $58
• (1.5 hr) Group Lesson $40
• 3 (1.5 hr) Private lessons $160

Cat Skiing

If you want to elevate your ski experience consider doing cat skiing. A cat will take you up to an elevation of 10,095′ where you can ski down Smoky Dome’s private powder. This part of the mountain has 2,000 acres of skiable backcountry terrain. ​For a single seat on the cat to ski this area the cost is $299 for a single seat. Cat ski prices include the use of a transceiver, backpack, shovel, and probe. You need to be an expert skier or snowboarder in order to participate. 

Trail Map

Rentals

They do have a rental shop where you can rent ski or snowboard equipment. Rentals start at $21 and go up to $39 depending on what you need. All rentals include a free helmet. If you have your own equipment you can get it tuned up or waxed here. Be sure to check out our Ski Trip Packing List for Families to make sure you remember everything you need. 

Food

There’s a little cafe inside the lodge with excellent hamburgers. They also have great chili. Next door is a full bar, the Fox Den Pub. 

Fun Fact: At one time it was owned by Bruce Willis, but has changed owners a few times in more recent years.

Things to do near Soldier Mountain

Baumgartner Hot Springs – Located at the Baumgartner campground is a hot spring that stays at 101 degrees year-round. 

Snowmobile – Just north of Fairfield is a good area to go snowmobiling. The runs near Fairfield are groomed weekly and regularly from December to March. You can pick up a free map of groomed trails from the Fairfield Ranger District. You can take your snowmobile to Worswick Hot Springs. 

Skillern Hot Springs – You will have to be super motivated to reach this well-fed hot spring. It is a two-hour hike along the Smoky Mountains in the Sawtooth National Forest. 

Bike Couch Summit – Couch Summit has miles of doubletrack and singletrack trails. As you ride you enjoy amazing views of the Sawtooth and Smoky Mountain ranges as well as the South Fork of the Boise River.

Worswick Hot Springs – This hot spring is located north of Fairfield, Idaho on the way towards Soldier Mt. There’s a parking lot making it easier to find. 

Fish for Rainbow Trout – Go boating and fishing at Mormon Lake. 

Where to Eat Near Soldier Mountain

Wrangler Inn – Burgers and shakes. 

Soldier Creek Brewing Company in Fairfield – Live music, bar food, and a large selection of beer. 

Iron Mountain Inn – Homestyle family diners like New York strips, Leg of Lamb, Surf and Turf, and Chicken Fried Steak.

Where to Stay near Soldier Mountain

There are not really any hotels nearby other than Prairie Inn, so you will likely need to look for a house to rent. You could also stay further away in Sun Valley if you prefer a hotel. Fairfield is the closest place to stay. 

For a totally unique stay check out this yurt! It has a hot tub. 

Soldier Mountain FAQ’s

Where is Soldier Mountain located?

The ski resort is located at 1043 North Soldier Creek Rd., Fairfield, Idaho 83327.

What time is it at Soldier Mountain?

Soldier Mountain is on Mountain time, so one hour later than Pacific Time. 

Where do I find the Soldier Mountain snow report?

You can find the daily snow report at https://www.onthesnow.com/idaho/soldier-mountain-ski-area/ski-resort.html. 

Where can I fly into to get to Soldier Mountain?

The two closest major airports are Boise or Salt Lake City. Be sure to rent a car that has AWD. 

How far is Soldier Mountain from Boise?

It is a one-hour and fifty-five-minute drive from Boise to Soldier Mountain. 

How far is Soldier Mountain from Salt Lake City?

From Salt Lake City, Soldier Mountain is a four-hour and nineteen-minute drive. 

More Fun Places to Ski in Idaho

Sun Valley

Magic Mountian

Pomerelle

All in all, Soldier Mountain Ski Resort is great for a weekend getaway. Just don’t forget your skis or snowshoes – and some goggles if you plan on going down one of those hills! See ya at the top!

The post Soldier Mountain Ski Resort appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Snow Pros

Snow Pros is a super interesting ski and snowboarding program and I am hoping that next November my kids can get into it as jr ski instructor assistants. Snow Pros are either Professional Ski Instructors of America or part of the American Association of Snowboard Instructors. When you or your kids need to take a lesson you want them to be a Snow Pro! Many Volkswagen vehicles are built to support an active outdoor lifestyle that includes winter sports, so this is a natural partnership.

Volkswagen did take us skiing with Snow Pro instructors and even though I have skied for a long time I got a lesson tailored to my ability. With the lesson I was able to tell an immediate benefit. I was skiing more aggressive and faster with just one lesson! Full disclosure: I got a little mad at my instructor. Heights are a little tough for me and although they do not prevent me from skiing, I do avoid blacks. Just looking down a black gives me anxiety. I do not care if I can ski down it or not, it’s purely a height thing. Well, she of course put me on blacks and wasn’t real compassionate about the issue. She was like, you can obviously do it, so just do it! And I did.

Get a printable ski trip packing list!

Diamond Peak Ski Resort

We all took our lesson at Diamond Peak and spend the day skiing here. It looks deceiving when you pull up, because it seems small, but once you are up on the mountain it is massive!

The best part of skiing here were the views, but a close second was the ski program. They literally had a ski instructor for every possible level. In our group were a few adults that had never skied before and by the end of the day they were skiing blues.

I wasn’t in the best shape of my life, so I was worn out after a few hours. We skied almost all blues, because their green runs are super easy. Lucky for me they have a restaurant half the way up. I hung out up there enjoying a hot chocolate with a little kick.

Overall, I felt like the skiing at Diamond Peak was awesome. I definitely want to ski Tahoe again sometime soon! I think my kids would really appreciate skiing here too since I noticed no ice! We ski on a lot of ice in Oregon.

Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe

While I was there I stayed at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, a family-friendly place to stay in the Tahoe area. It is extremely close to Diamond Peak ski resort, which was quite nice. I ended up having breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the hotel and every meal was fantastic.

My room was spacious. I could have easily fit the kids into the room with us. The window has an interesting set up with a couch. You could easily sleep a kid on the sofa and it has a pull out where you could sleep an even bigger kid. .

One of the days we got back to the hotel early enough, I had time to go enjoy the hot tub. They have several oversized hot tubs that are a perfect way to spend an hour or so when it’s snowing. They have a large heated pool, but I wasn’t brave enough to jump in. Overall, it’s a beautiful property and the food is excellent. 

Hopefully, one of these days I get to go back and I can expand this article! On my way back to the airport, I got to see Virginia City, a ghost town!

The post Lake Tahoe appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Not far from Portland, Oregon just down the highway, 3 hours away is Bend, Oregon home to Mt. Bachelor ski resort. Mt Bachelor is home to some of the best skiing in the Pacific Northwest. After several trips to Bend, I’ve put together a 3- day itinerary to Bend, Oregon to help you plan your weekend ski trip to Bend. 

Before you leave on your trip double-check to make sure you’ve packed everything you will need with our Ski Trip packing list. 

Day 1

Today you are driving to Bend and will have to decide what to do base on home much time you have when you arrive. Since you will have an early day tomorrow, you won’t want to stay out to late.

Your family will adore staying at Tetherow Resort, home to the 54th ranked golf course in America. This luxury property boasts one-bedroom suites large enough to accommodate families with 6 family members. Tetherow Resort is located at 61234 Skyline Ranch Road, Bend, OR 97702. Their phone number is 877. 298.2582

Dinner: Tonight have dinner at The Lot located on 745 Northwest Columbia Street, Bend, OR 97701. They are open until 9 pm. Bend’s “The Lot” is a collection of five unique, local food carts serving up a variety of dishes sure to find an appetite in your group. Throw in 16 taps of beer, heated seats and an enclosed eating area to keep you toasty even in the coldest conditions and you have one of the most interesting dining options in Central Oregon.

If for some reason they are too crowded or your kids refuse to sit outside at a food court then go have dinner at McMenamins Old St. Francis School.

Day 2

Breakfast: Start your day off with breakfast at Tetherow Grill. The Grill offers upscale, yet traditional breakfast favorites like pancakes and egg scrambles along with uniquely Pacific Northwest fare such as Tetherow Benedict with sautéed leeks and duck confit.

After breakfast, you are off to Mt. Bachelor (about 18 miles away) for a full day of fun.

Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort is a complete snow sports resort. It offers 360-degree lift-served groomed skiing and riding from its volcanic summit. Off the groomed, there is plenty of untouched tree skiing over Bachelor’s 3,683 acres. Mt. Bachelor welcomes skiers, snowboarders with 10 chairlifts, including 7 high-speed quads, and choice of 88 runs to accommodate the novice, intermediate, advanced and expert ski enthusiasts.

Snowshoe Tour

Arrive by 9:40 in order to participate in the 10 a.m. Guided snowshoe tour of Deschutes National Forest near Mt. Bachelor. Join a US Forest Service Naturalist for FREE 90 minute interpretive tours. Learn about winter ecology at Mt. Bachelor and the geology of Central Oregon, the Deschutes National Forest watershed and the plants and animals found throughout the area.

• Please dress for the weather; snowshoes are provided and no previous experience is required.
• Participants need to be older than 8 years old and wear snow boots and warm winter clothing.
• Check-in 10-15 minutes prior to time of tour at the USFS snowshoe hut just outside the Guest Services building in West Village

Skiing

After your snowshoe tour head to the Mt. Bachelor Ticket Office where you can purchase your ski passes. Enjoying skiing and snowboarding Mt. Bachelor the rest of today. Take a break midway through the day and have lunch inside the lodge. The cafeteria has lots of options.

Dinner: Once you’ve had your fill of skiing head back to Tetherow to clean up before heading out for dinner at Bend Brewing Co. in Downtown Bend located at 1019 Northwest Brooks Street, Bend, OR 97701. Bend Brewing Co. is a true local’s favorite when it comes to great beer and great food in a laid back environment. The restaurant is tucked behind downtown’s main streets and overlooks the Deschutes River. They have a hearty kids’ menu available.

Day 3

Breakfast: Today have breakfast at the Original Pancake house. The portions are huge and the prices are cheap.

After breakfast head decide if you want to ski again or not. If you want to go skiing again head back to Mt. Bachelor and have fun.

High Desert Museum

If you do not want to ski again head over to the High Desert Museum on 59800 South Highway 97, Bend, OR 97702. This is a one-of-a-kind museum that reveals the nature of things in the West’s high desert through artful exhibits, alluring animals, engaging programs and meaningful history.

The High Desert Museum is consistently rated as a top Central Oregon attraction by Trip Advisor. With 135 acres and more than 100,000 square feet of exhibit space, it’s a “must see” for anyone traveling through the area. Get a close-up of native wildlife, such as an otter, bobcat, porcupine, and badger. Talk with historic characters who share the tales of early Oregon explorers and settlers. Visit an authentic homestead and sawmill from 1904. Experience a close flying encounter with owls, falcons, hawks and even a vulture. Learn about Native American culture and history that bring history and science to life.

Lunch: After the museum, enjoy a late lunch at Deschutes Brewery.

Afternoon: Depart

There are lot of other places to eat and things to do in the Bend area. For more suggestions check out our Sunriver and Bend Travel Guide.

The post Weekend Ski Trip to Bend, Oregon appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Skiing Whistler

Whistler is an incredible family destination for skiing in my opinion and they have trails for every type of skier. I already loved everything about skiing Whistler. They have areas that are Family Certified Zones dedicated to families with long wide trails.

We mainly stuck to the Whistler side and skied the long easy runs found throughout the family zone. Of course we had to stop and play in the Tree Fort, located just off of the Bear Cub trail near the Big Red Express chairlift. For whatever reason, these zones are often closed so be sure and go in when they are open. If you wait it may not open again the entire time you are there.

SKI LESSONS AND CHILDCARE

Whistler does offer lessons for all ages and they offer family lessons so you can stay together.

They also have a childcare center for kids too young to ski. My sister was with me during the trip with her little baby and she was too little for the daycare center so we arranged for a nanny to come to our room with Babysitting Whistler.

Family-Friendly Ski Lifts

One of the other perks of skiing Whistler was the large lifts, especially the gondolas. We pretty much stuck to riding the gondolas which were enclosed. I never had to worry about the ski lifts because we were always together inside an enclosed gondola. My kids may be experience skiers, but I still worry about putting them on the ski lifts by themselves. I wondered what we would do if that happened, but it wasn’t even an issue. We literally walked right onto a gondola with our skis. Considering I was a solo parent on this trip, this was a really big deal to me! There is no way I could have taken care of four sets of skis by myself.

Other Whistler Activities

Bungee Jumping

Meadow Park Sports Centre with an indoor swimming pool and ice skating rink.

Mountain Biking

Snow Tubing

Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa

The Core Indoor Rock Climbing

Zip Line with  Super Fly Ziplines

Super Fly Ziplines were so much fun. I think anyone could easily zip line with them. They have a series of four zip lines that two instructors take you down. You do not even have to worry about breaking because it’s automatic. Here is a video of our experience.

Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa a Whistler Day Spa

Where to eat at in Whistler

El Furniture Warehouse

The atmosphere is casual, the food is quite good and the prices are some of the cheapest in Whistler. Many items are $5, Canadian dollars that is. Expect to wait for a table, because this place is popular and often packed. The food comes out pretty fast!

Elements

It was ok, but definitely over hyped. It took Forever! It’s expensive for breakfast.
Kids meals are $6, for $6 they get one piece of French toast. I got the stuffed $14 French toast with bananas and chocolate. The bananas were sour. Not bad, but sour and I was expecting a treat.

Misty Mountain Pizza

Near the base of the mountain, this place is pretty cheap. You can get pizza by the slice. They also have a free video game in there for kids to play and free water.

Peaked Pies

This place rocks. I mean it’s just pot pies but they are so good. We tried three different kinds and they were all equally good. If you choose to, you can add peas and mashed potatoes and gravy on top. We only ordered one like this and regretted not getting all of them this way. If you are looking for tasty take out this place is where you want to go!

Whistler Hotels

Cascade Lodge – One bedrooms with kitchens, great hot tub, and pool

Four Seasons Whistler – A luxury lodge with lots of amenities and huge suites.

Summit Lodge – Great boutique hotel, hot tub, hot chocolate bar in the afternoon, spacious rooms.

Whiskey Jack – Older but extremely large units with multiple bedrooms. Saunas in the condo. The unit we stayed in games and books.

Whistler Vacation Club at Twin Peaks – Many units are two stories with the bedrooms upstairs. There is a nice hot tub and pool. 

Whistler, British Columbia is such a wonderful family vacation year-round. Regardless of where you stay or what you do while visiting this little ski village you are likely to have a lovely time.

The post Whistler British Columbia Travel Guide appeared first on Mommy Travels.