Safe, Fun, Safe and Family-Friendly Skiing in Colorado
Skiing with kids in Colorado has never been safer or more enjoyable, with resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone leading the way. These family-friendly ski resorts offer dedicated learning zones, certified kids instructors, and terrain designed specifically for young skiers and snowboarders. Lively villages and après-ski amenities, like hot cocoa stations, keep the whole family happy after a day on the slopes. From luxury lodges to budget-friendly accommodations, Colorado’s top family resorts deliver unforgettable ski vacations.
For families looking for their ideal winter vacation, it’s hard to beat Colorado as a winter destination. The state is easily accessible with flights from across the U.S., and major mountain resorts are just a short drive from Denver, making travel convenient. The wide variety of kid-friendly resorts and reliable snow conditons provide an experience that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Colorado Ski Vacations Packed with Family Activities
Colorado ski vacations aren’t just about skiing—they also feature mountainside fun for all ages. Families can enjoy ice skating, snow tubing, and a variety of other activities, along with resort amenities designed for kids. With so many winter things to do in Colorado, it’s no wonder the state is a top choice for family ski trips worldwide.
Top Four Family Ski Resorts in Colorado
Vail: Premier Family Ski Resort
Vail is one of Colorado’s largest and most family-friendly ski resorts, offering over 5,000 acres of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features three unique base villages, perfect for families to enjoy shopping, dining, and ice skating. Young skiers and snowboarders can take advantage of Vail’s dedicated learning zones and certified instructors, while the entire family can enjoy après-ski treats like hot cocoa or snacks at Trail’s End at Golden Peak. Vail combines world-class skiing with family-focused amenities, making it ideal for an unforgettable Colorado ski vacation.
Beaver Creek: Luxury Meets Family Fun
Beaver Creek is known for its intimate ski experience and exceptional service, making it a top choice for families. The resort features a European-style base village with easy access to kid-friendly activities. Every afternoon, children can enjoy freshly baked chocolate chip cookies at the resort’s signature events. Beaver Creek also offers McCoy Park, which features beginner-friendly terrain perfect for families learning together. With a mix of luxury, convenience, and kid-centric amenities, Beaver Creek ensures every family ski trip is memorable.
Keystone: Ideal for Families and Kids
Keystone is designed with families in mind, offering affordable accommodations, slope-side convenience, and extensive kid-friendly activities. Families can enjoy ski and ride lessons at River Run Village, then take the Gondola to the World’s Largest Mountaintop Snow Fort. Keystone also provides snow tubing, ice skating, and on-mountain dining options that appeal to all ages. With a focus on convenience and family-friendly amenities, Keystone is a top destination for Colorado ski vacations with kids.
Keystone has become a favorite for it's family-friendly perks, including the Kids Ski Free program. This program allows children aged 12 and under to ski for free every day, all season long, when booking two or more nights of lodging directly with Keystone Resort. Additionally, Keystone features Kidtopia, Kids Adventure Zones designed to teach young skiers new skills and improve their confidence on the mountain.
Breckenridge: Historic Charm and Family Fun
Breckenridge combines Colorado’s rich mining history with world-class skiing, making it perfect for families. Just 90 minutes from Denver, Breck offers easy access and lifts that drop families right into the heart of town. Beginners can explore gentle slopes, while more advanced kids can tackle the Five Peaks, including the Imperial Express SuperChair, the highest lift in North America. Breckenridge also provides a charming mountain town atmosphere, offering shops, dining, and après-ski activities for the whole family. For fun off the slopes you won't want to miss the unique sightseeing tours.
Family Activities in Colorado Ski Resorts
Colorado ski resorts offer a wide variety of activities beyond skiing, making them ideal for families. Some of the favorites with parents are snow tubing, ice skating, and scenic gondola rides, while parents relax or explore at their own pace. Each resort also features ski and ride schools with certified instructors, ensuring kids gain confidence on the slopes while having fun.
Here’s a quick guide to top family-friendly activities at Colorado resorts:
- Snow Tubing: Keystone
- Ice Skating: Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone
- Sleigh Rides: Keystone
- Scenic Gondola Rides: Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone
- Ski School: Available at all resorts for children of all levels
These activities make Colorado ski vacations exciting and engaging for kids while offering parents flexibility to enjoy their own mountain experience.
Epic Pass Benefits for Families
The Epic Pass is the ultimate tool for families looking to maximize their Colorado ski vacation. With one pass, families gain access to multiple resorts, making it easier to explore and find the perfect slopes for all skill levels. Passes are on sale for a limited time and end once the ski season is underway, plan ahead to purchase early.
Key Epic Pass benefits for families include:
- Savings on food, lodging, group lessons, and rentals with Epic Mountain Rewards
- Discounted tickets for friends or family (with select passes)
- Flexibility to visit multiple resorts during a single trip
- Overall savings compared to purchasing daily lift tickets
Whether your family prefers a single resort or wants to explore several, the Epic Pass ensures convenience, value, and flexibility—helping families create memorable ski vacations in Colorado.
