If your family is craving fresh air, unplugged fun, and some of the best mountain views in North America, we’ve got just the ticket. From forested trails to mountaintop coasters, these outdoor vacation spots offer something for everyone. Whether it’s wildlife sightings, alpine hikes, or zipping through the trees on a mountain coaster, these Vail Resorts destinations are your go-to for outdoor family adventures that will leave your kids wide-eyed and happily exhausted.
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
Whistler Blackcomb has outdoor fun covered from top to bottom—literally. Start your adventure with a ride on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, where 360-degree views of ancient volcanic peaks make even the quietest kid say “wow.” Then explore over 50 km of high alpine hiking trails or coast through the valley on the paved family-friendly network of the Whistler Valley Trail.At the base of Blackcomb Mountain, the Family Adventure Zone is pure kid heaven: think mini golf, bungee trampolines, ropes courses, and even a human gyroscope. Got animal lovers in your crew? Sign up for a bear viewing tour. These scenic, guided 4x4 experiences offer a safe and educational peek into the lives of Whistler’s black bears and cubs.
Where: Whistler, BC | Explore More
Okemo, Vermont
Okemo is a Vermont gem nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains—and a top choice for families who love nature. Easy hiking trails and scenic chair lift rides open the door to plenty of wildlife viewing. Kids might spot a snowshoe hare, porcupine, songbirds or even a moose along the trails. And with the Okemo Wildlife Corridor nearby, you’re exploring an area specially protected for these incredible creatures.Round out your trip with a visit to The Nature Museum in nearby Grafton, or the Vermont Institute of Natural Science in Quechee. Hands-on exhibits, fossil digs, and the Magic Forest Playscape make learning about local wildlife both fun and immersive. It’s the kind of place where education and exploration blend seamlessly.
Where: Ludlow, VT | Explore More
Stowe, Vermont
Dreaming of charming towns, sweeping green mountains, and a dash of adventure? Stowe’s your spot. Take the Gondola SkyRide up Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, then hike, dine, or just soak in the panoramic views. The town itself buzzes with small-town charm, offering local eats, boutique shops, and easy access to waterfalls and covered bridges.Between hikes, cool off in a swimming hole or kick back with an ice cream cone in the village. From disc golf and e-bikes to summer festivals and family hikes, Stowe delivers an outdoorsy New England experience you won’t forget.
Where: Stowe, VT | Explore More
Breckenridge & Vail, Colorado
Colorado’s high-alpine playgrounds take summer fun to new heights—literally. Both Breckenridge and Vail offer Epic Discovery: a mountain-top experience where gondola rides lead to mountaintop coasters, bungee trampolines, zip lines, and more! . Breck’s Peak 8 Base Camp and Vail’s Eagle’s Nest are the launch pads for high-flying, family-friendly fun.For a more chill day, take a guided hike or check out the Nature Discovery Center to learn about local ecosystems and wildlife. No matter how your crew wants to explore, these resorts serve up panoramic views and hands-on adventure.
Where: Breckenridge & Vail, CO | Explore Breck | Explore Vail
Park City, Utah
Looking to beat the heat? Head to Park City, just a quick drive from Salt Lake City. This mountain town is bursting with outdoor fun. Ride the mountain coaster through aspen groves, hike to tranquil Shadow Lake, or test your courage on the Flying Eagle Zip Line. Kids love the Alpine Slide, and scenic gondola and chairlift rides offer sky-high views without the sweat.End the day with live music at Canyons Village or pedal your way through 400 miles of mountain biking trails. No matter your speed, Park City’s got an outdoor activity to match.
Where: Park City, UT | Explore More
Keystone, Colorado
Sun’s out, fun’s out at Keystone, where families can fill every summer day with adventure. From scenic lift rides with sweeping mountain views to 36 holes of gorgeous golf, the options here are endless. Kids will love gem panning, mini golf, and the bungee trampoline at Summit House—especially if you grab the Summer Adventure Pack to bundle it all together. For outdoor thrill-seekers, there’s mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, and even summer snow tubing. And when it's time to cool off? Paddle boarding, fly fishing, and nearby whitewater rafting keep things refreshing. Plus, live music, food festivals, and family-friendly events fill the calendar all season long.Where: Keystone, CO | Explore More
Heavenly, Lake Tahoe, California
When lake views meet mountain thrills, you get Heavenly. With its scenic gondola rides and plenty of activities at the top of the mountain like rock climbing, zip lining and more, this spot is great for families who want it all: beaches, forests, and adrenaline-pumping fun. Zoom down the gravity-powered alpine coaster, or relax on the shores of Baldwin and Kiva Beach.Nature here isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the star of the show.
Where: South Lake Tahoe, CA | Explore More
Book Your Family’s Outdoor Adventure
The mountains are calling—and they want your whole family to come out and play. Whether it’s biking in Whistler, bear-spotting in Vermont, or riding coasters in Park City, there’s no better time to get outside and reconnect.Book your Epic family adventure today.
