Winter has arrived in Northern Colorado, bringing snow and plenty of opportunities for family adventures in the mountains. If you’re thinking about taking your kids skiing, don’t worry—it’s easier (and more fun) than you might think! Here’s a comprehensive guide, featuring tips, tricks, and insights to make your family ski trip memorable.
Top Family-Friendly Ski Destinations
Snowy Range Ski Area
Why we love it: Just over the Wyoming border, it’s close to Fort Collins, easy to navigate, and budget-friendly. Plus, kids under five ski free, and their ski school lessons are the most affordable around at $75 for a two-hour group session.
Copper Mountain
Why we love it: This resort has a dedicated beginner area full of green runs, so there’s no chance of accidentally winding up on a black diamond! Their kids’ lessons are excellent, and kids under four ski free.
Breckenridge
Why we love it: Peak 8 is a hub for families, with walkable access to lifts, greens for beginners, and a gondola that goes straight to the parking lot. Kids under four ski free here, too.
Eldora Mountain Resort
Why we love it: Located just 21 miles outside of Boulder, Eldora offers a fantastic learning environment and is perfect for a day trip. Kids under five ski free, and it’s one of the most convenient mountains for Front Range families.
Must-Know Hacks for Skiing Success
Bring a Travel-Sized Potty
Avoid bathroom emergencies by letting the kids use a potty in the parking lot before putting on layers of ski gear.
Pack Snacks and Hot Cocoa
Keep energy levels high with plenty of snacks on the chairlift. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate to warm up little hands and save money on pricey lodge meals.
Use a Wagon or Gear Backpack
Hauling skis, boots, and kids? A wagon or a backpack with ski straps will save you time, energy, and sanity.
Ski Pass Deals for Kids
Epic School Kids Colorado Pack
Free for K-5 students, this pass offers four days at resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, and Keystone. Be sure to apply early in the season.
Colorado Ski Passport
For $67, kids in grades 3-6 can access over 20 ski resorts, including Steamboat, Copper, and Loveland.
Kids Ski Free Programs
Many resorts, including Loveland, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Snowy Range, offer free skiing for younger children.
Gear Tips for Little Shredders
Season Rentals: Check out Christie’s Sports for affordable season-long rentals.
The Edgy Wedgy: Helps kids keep their skis together and maintain control.
Ski Harness: A lifesaver for teaching kids to stop and turn.
Set Realistic Expectations
Skiing with kids is about having fun, not logging vertical feet. Start slow, take breaks, and remember that even two good runs can make for a successful day. When kids have a positive experience, they’ll want to keep coming back—and that’s the ultimate goal.
Colorado’s mountains offer endless opportunities for family fun, and with a little preparation, skiing with kids can be a blast. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a first-timer, embrace the adventure and enjoy making memories with your little ones!
Thank you to Ashleigh Rudkin for the extra tips and tricks!
