9 Best U.S. Ski Resorts for Families During the Holiday Season

When the snow starts to fall, families start thinking about the best ski resorts to visit. The U.S. is home to a variety of resorts that provide fun for all ages during the holiday season. From beginner slopes to après-ski activities, these resorts know how to cater to families. The holiday season brings extra cheer, with festive events and family-focused amenities. 

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Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Wyoming)

Jackson Hole offers a variety of slopes suitable for families, from beginner runs to more advanced challenges. The resort’s ski school is known for its excellent instructors, making it perfect for families with children of different ages and skill levels. Off the slopes, families can enjoy activities like snowshoeing and sleigh rides, adding extra fun to their stay. The charming town of Jackson provides great dining and shopping, with a Western vibe that makes it a memorable place to visit.

During the holiday season, Jackson Hole offers festive activities that appeal to families. From ice skating to holiday-themed events, the resort provides a magical atmosphere for all. Families can enjoy cozy accommodations and après-ski entertainment, including live music and delicious food. With its stunning mountain views and welcoming atmosphere, Jackson Hole is a top destination for families.

Park City Mountain Resort (Utah)

Park City is the largest ski resort in the U.S., making it an ideal destination for families looking for variety. With over 7,300 acres of terrain, the resort offers something for every family member, from easy slopes to more challenging runs. The resort’s ski school is top-rated, ensuring that kids and beginners have an excellent experience. The town of Park City is known for its vibrant après-ski scene and family-friendly amenities.

The holiday season at Park City is filled with festive events, including Christmas tree lighting ceremonies and winter markets. Families can take advantage of special holiday packages that include lift tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons. The resort also features fun non-skiing activities, such as tubing and ice skating, perfect for families looking to explore beyond the slopes. With its festive atmosphere and world-class amenities, Park City is a fantastic family destination.

Aspen Snowmass (Colorado)

Aspen Snowmass is a world-renowned resort that caters to families with its wide range of ski terrain and activities. With four mountains to explore, families can find everything from beginner slopes to challenging runs for advanced skiers. The resort’s ski schools are known for their expert instructors, ensuring children and first-time skiers feel comfortable and confident. After a day on the slopes, families can unwind in the resort’s luxurious lodges and cozy restaurants.

During the holiday season, Aspen Snowmass is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with festive decorations and seasonal events. The resort hosts a variety of family-friendly activities, such as snowshoe tours, ice skating, and holiday parades. The town of Aspen offers a charming atmosphere, with boutiques, art galleries, and festive dining options. With its family-friendly vibe and scenic beauty, Aspen Snowmass is a great choice for holiday vacationers.

Vail Mountain Resort (Colorado)

Vail is known for its excellent skiing and family-friendly atmosphere, making it one of the top ski resorts in the U.S. With over 5,200 acres of terrain, families can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on runs that suit all skill levels. The resort also features a well-regarded ski school, perfect for kids who are just learning to ski. Off the slopes, families can enjoy the resort’s ice skating rink, tubing hill, and festive après-ski activities.

During the holiday season, Vail is alive with holiday spirit, offering everything from tree-lighting ceremonies to snowman-building contests. Families can enjoy special holiday events, such as visits from Santa Claus and holiday concerts. The charming town of Vail adds to the experience with its cozy lodges, restaurants, and shops. With its wide range of activities and festive atmosphere, Vail is an ideal destination for families looking to make holiday memories.

Breckenridge Ski Resort (Colorado)

Breckenridge is a family-friendly ski resort with a rich history and a welcoming atmosphere. The resort offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels, along with a renowned ski school that caters to both kids and adults. Families can enjoy additional activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. The charming town of Breckenridge is known for its historic Victorian architecture and offers plenty of family-friendly dining and shopping options.

Breckenridge is known for its lively holiday celebrations, including a holiday parade and a spectacular light display. During the holiday season, families can take part in special events like festive craft fairs and family-friendly concerts. The resort also offers a variety of holiday packages that make it easier for families to plan their winter getaway. With its welcoming atmosphere and festive holiday events, Breckenridge is a great destination for families during the holidays.

Mammoth Mountain (California)

Mammoth Mountain is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort’s ski school is ideal for families with young children or beginners, and there are plenty of intermediate and advanced runs for more experienced skiers. Families can also enjoy a variety of other activities, such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and tubing. The resort features spacious accommodations and a variety of dining options suitable for families.

During the holiday season, Mammoth Mountain is filled with festive activities for families to enjoy. From holiday lights and ice skating to visits from Santa, the resort offers a magical winter experience. Families can take advantage of special holiday packages that include lift tickets, rentals, and ski lessons. With its wide range of activities and holiday cheer, Mammoth Mountain is a great place for families to spend the holidays.

Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada)

Lake Tahoe is a premier destination for families looking to experience skiing and snowboarding in a beautiful setting. The region offers several ski resorts, including Heavenly Mountain Resort and Squaw Valley, each offering family-friendly amenities. Ski schools at these resorts are highly regarded, making it easy for families to get started on the slopes. Non-skiing families can enjoy activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and sledding, as well as scenic views of the lake.

The holiday season at Lake Tahoe is a magical time, with festive events, holiday markets, and family-friendly entertainment. Families can enjoy holiday-themed activities, including torchlight parades and visits from Santa. The region also offers cozy accommodations and great restaurants, perfect for family meals after a day on the slopes. With its stunning views and wide range of activities, Lake Tahoe is an excellent choice for families this holiday season.

Telluride Ski Resort (Colorado)

Telluride is a hidden gem that offers an excellent ski experience for families looking for a laid-back, less crowded destination. The resort provides a wide variety of slopes for all skill levels, along with a family-friendly ski school. Kids will love the resort’s ski programs, which cater to young skiers and snowboarders. After a day on the slopes, families can relax in the resort’s cozy lodges or enjoy a family dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Telluride’s holiday season is filled with festive events and activities for families. From holiday markets to live music and visits from Santa, the town comes alive with seasonal cheer. Families can also enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, and exploring the charming streets of Telluride. The resort’s welcoming atmosphere and great activities make it an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a quiet, memorable holiday vacation.

Killington Resort (Vermont)

Killington is one of the best-known ski resorts in the East, offering families a wide variety of skiing and snowboarding options. The resort features over 1,500 acres of terrain, with slopes that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Killington is home to an exceptional ski school that ensures beginners and young children have a great experience. Families can also enjoy other activities like snow tubing and ice skating.

The holiday season at Killington is full of fun, with special events like torchlight parades and fireworks displays. Families can take advantage of holiday packages that include lift tickets and ski rentals, making it easier to plan their trip. The resort’s cozy accommodations and family-friendly dining options make it a great place to unwind after a day on the slopes. With its festive atmosphere and variety of activities, Killington is a wonderful destination for families during the holiday season.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.