“Skiing” and “Colorado” are words that go hand-in-hand. Every year, more than 14 million people hit the slopes in Colorado, making the state’s 30+ ski resorts highly desirable destinations for winter vacations. But not all ski resorts are created equally, and some are more family-friendly than others. Below are our top five family-friendly ski resorts in Colorado so that you can plan your family’s next outdoor adventure!
1. Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin)
Arapahoe Basin is known for its long season (often staying open into June) and its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. While it doesn’t have the massive size of some other resorts, its charm lies in its smaller, more intimate setting.
Family-Friendly Features
– The A-Basin Ski School: A-Basin’s ski school is excellent for families. It’s less crowded than other resorts, which means more individualized attention for kids learning to ski or snowboard.
– Terrain Variety: While the resort offers more challenging slopes for advanced skiers, it also has a solid offering for beginners, making it ideal for families who want to progress at their own pace.
– Affordable Family Deals: A-Basin offers some of the best value in Colorado, including affordable lift tickets and family discounts, making it a great option for families on a budget.
Best For: Families looking for an affordable, no-frills skiing experience with excellent ski instruction.
2. Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge is a popular destination for families, known for its charming Victorian downtown and variety of slopes catering to all skill levels. Whether skiing, snowboarding, or enjoying non-ski activities, Breckenridge has something for everyone.
Family-Friendly Features
– Ski and Ride School: Breckenridge offers exceptional ski lessons for children. The resort’s instructors focus on building confidence and making learning fun. There’s also a specialized “snowboarders’ camp” for younger kids.
– Ice Skating and Sledding: Beyond skiing, Breckenridge offers an outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of town and a dedicated sledding hill for families who want a break from the slopes.
– Fun Park: Located at the base of Peak 8, the Fun Park has a variety of activities for kids, including an alpine coaster, tubing, and a miniature snowmobile track.
Best For: Families who want a mix of skiing and other winter activities, and those looking for a charming town to explore off the slopes.
3. Copper Mountain Resort
Copper Mountain is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and great terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. It’s also one of the most affordable family destinations in Colorado.
Family-Friendly Features
– The Woodward Copper Barn: This is a must-see for families who want to try something new. The Woodward Copper Barn is an indoor training facility where kids can practice their freestyle skiing and snowboarding moves in a safe, controlled environment.
– Ski and Snowboard School: Copper’s children’s programs are exceptional, offering fun and educational experiences that teach kids how to ski or snowboard in a way that builds confidence and enthusiasm.
– Tubing Hill: The tubing hill is a favorite for families who want to take a break from skiing. The resort also has a range of beginner slopes and plenty of intermediate terrain.
Best for: Families looking for a relaxed and affordable destination, especially those with kids interested in freestyle skiing or snowboarding.
4. Keystone Resort
Keystone Resort is an excellent destination for families with kids of all ages. Known for its laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere, it offers a wide range of activities beyond skiing, making it perfect for families looking for variety.
Family-Friendly Features
– Kidtopia: This unique program is a highlight for families. It offers activities like snow fort building, arts and crafts, tubing, and even a Kidtopia snow playground where kids can play and explore.
– Ski School: Keystone has one of the best children’s ski schools in the state. They offer lessons for kids as young as three, with instructors who specialize in teaching young skiers.
– Night Skiing: Keystone is one of the few resorts offering night skiing, which allows families to hit the slopes after the sun sets. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their time on the snow.
Best For: Families with young children and beginner skiers.
5. Vail Ski Resort
Vail is one of Colorado’s most famous resorts, offering plenty of amenities that make it ideal for families. While it’s known for its extensive ski terrain, it also has a lot to offer non-skiers and families with younger children.
Family-Friendly Features
– Ski School and Childcare: Vail offers a top-notch ski school for kids, including special programs for children as young as three. Parents can also take advantage of childcare services to enjoy some solo runs while the kids are being well cared for.
– Adventure Ridge: Located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola, Adventure Ridge offers family-friendly fun off the slopes. Kids can enjoy tubing, a snowcat ride, and even a mini-snowmobile course.
– Epic Mix: Vail’s interactive app for families, Epic Mix, allows parents to track their kids’ progress and find out about family events and activities happening around the resort.
Best For: Families who want world-class skiing, a range of activities, and top-tier ski schools.
