Family Ski Resort Vacations At Christmas: A Fun and Festive Way To Spend The Holidays

by | Nov 21, 2023 | Destinations

Family Ski Resort Vacations at Christmas: A Fun and Festive Way to Spend the Holidays

Family ski resort vacations at Christmas are a popular way for families to spend quality time together during the holiday season. Ski resorts offer a unique opportunity to enjoy winter sports and activities while also taking in the festive atmosphere of the holiday season. With Christmas just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning a family ski vacation.

2 person in yellow jacket and blue helmet riding ski blades on snow covered mountain during

One of the biggest advantages of a family ski vacation at Christmas is the opportunity to create lasting memories with loved ones. Ski resorts offer a variety of activities for all ages, from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and snow tubing. Families can also take part in holiday-themed events such as tree lighting ceremonies, visits with Santa, and Christmas caroling. The festive atmosphere and beautiful winter scenery create a magical experience that is sure to be remembered for years to come.

When planning a family ski vacation at Christmas, it is important to choose a resort that caters to families. Look for resorts that offer childcare services, family-friendly accommodations, and activities for all ages. Many ski resorts also offer holiday packages that include meals and activities, making it easier to plan and budget for the trip. With the right planning and preparation, a family ski vacation at Christmas can be a fun and memorable experience for everyone.

Why Choose a Family Ski Resort Vacation at Christmas

For families looking to spend quality time together during the holiday season, a ski resort vacation can be the perfect choice. Here are some reasons why:

  • Picture-perfect Christmas: Ski resorts are often located in picturesque mountain towns that are beautifully decorated for the holidays. Imagine snow falling, small-town charm, and lots of time connecting with the people who are the most important to you.
  • Family-friendly: Ski resorts offer a wide range of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, sledding, and more. Many resorts also have childcare services, kids’ clubs, and family-friendly restaurants.
  • Snow-sure: Ski resorts are generally located at high elevations, which means they are more likely to have snow during the holiday season. This can make for a more enjoyable and reliable vacation experience.
  • Holiday spirit: Ski resorts often have festive events and activities during the holiday season, such as tree lighting ceremonies, carol singing, and visits from Santa Claus. This can help create a memorable and magical holiday experience for the whole family.
  • Quality time: Ski resort vacations provide an opportunity for families to disconnect from their busy lives and spend quality time together. Whether it’s skiing together, playing board games in the lodge, or enjoying a hot chocolate by the fire, ski resort vacations can help families bond and create lasting memories.

Overall, a family ski resort vacation at Christmas can be a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season and create special memories with loved ones.

Top Family-Friendly Ski Resorts

man in yellow jacket and black pants playing ski on snow covered ground during daytime

Skiing is a great way to spend quality time with family during the holiday season. Here are some of the top family-friendly ski resorts to consider for your Christmas vacation:

Vail, Colorado

Vail is a popular destination for family ski vacations, offering a wide range of activities for all ages. The resort provides a variety of terrain for beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers. Families can also enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, and tubing. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 2 months to 6 years.

Aspen Snowmass, Colorado

Aspen Snowmass is another great option for a family ski vacation. The resort has four mountains with a wide range of terrain for all levels. The resort offers a Kids Ski Free program for children aged 7 to 12, which includes free lift tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons. Families can also enjoy ice skating, snowmobiling, and sleigh rides.

Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Park City Mountain Resort is a family-friendly ski resort with over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Families can also enjoy the Alpine Coaster, a thrilling ride that winds through the mountains. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 6 months to 6 years.

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Beaver Creek is a family-friendly ski resort with over 1,800 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing. Families can also enjoy the Beaver Creek Children’s Museum and the Beaver Creek Kids’ Adventure Zone. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 2 months to 6 years.

Lake Tahoe Resort, California and Nevada

Lake Tahoe Resort is a family-friendly ski resort with over 4,800 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Families can also enjoy ice skating, sleigh rides, and snowmobiling. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 6 months to 6 years.

Deer Valley, Utah

Deer Valley is a family-friendly ski resort with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Families can also enjoy the Deer Valley Children’s Center, which offers full-day childcare services for children aged 2 months to 12 years.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a family-friendly ski resort with over 100 trails and 12 lifts. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing. Families can also enjoy the Stowe Mountain Adventure Center, which offers indoor rock climbing, a bouncy house, and a ninja warrior course. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 6 weeks to 3 years.

Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky is a family-friendly ski resort with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Families can also enjoy the Lone Peak Expedition, a guided snowcat tour to the summit of Lone Peak. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 6 weeks to 8 years.

Palisades Tahoe, California and Nevada

Palisades Tahoe is a family-friendly ski resort with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of activities for all ages, including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tubing. Families can also enjoy the High Camp Pool and Hot Tub, which offers stunning views of Lake Tahoe. The resort also offers childcare services for children aged 2 months to 6 years.

These are just a few of the top family-friendly ski resorts to consider for your Christmas vacation. Each resort has its unique features and activities to offer, so do your research and choose the one that best suits your family’s needs.

Planning Your Christmas Ski Trip

Planning a Christmas ski trip can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you plan your family ski vacation:

Book Early

It’s important to book your Christmas ski trip early, ideally 6-8 months in advance. Christmas is a peak period for ski resorts, so accommodations and amenities fill up quickly. Early bookings might also secure better deals on lodging and other reservations.

Choose the Right Ski Resort

Choosing the right ski resort is crucial to the success of your Christmas ski trip. Look for a ski resort that offers a variety of terrain suitable for all skill levels, as well as family-friendly activities such as ice skating, sleigh rides, and tubing. Check out the resort’s website for information on dining options, lodging, and ski rentals.

Dining and Lodging

When planning your Christmas ski trip, it’s important to consider dining and lodging options. Many ski resorts offer on-site dining options, but it’s always a good idea to make dinner reservations in advance. Look for lodging options that are close to the ski resort and offer amenities such as ski storage, shuttle service, and discounts on lift tickets.

Shopping

Many ski resorts have charming downtown areas with unique shops and boutiques. Take some time to explore the local shops and pick up some souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home.

Airport and Transportation

When planning your Christmas ski trip, consider the nearest airport and transportation options. Many ski resorts offer shuttle service to and from the airport, as well as transportation to and from the ski resort.

Ski Packages and Discounts

Look for ski packages and discounts when planning your Christmas ski trip. Many ski resorts offer package deals that include lodging, lift tickets, and ski rentals at a discounted rate. Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts on the resort’s website or social media pages.

By following these tips, you can plan a memorable Christmas ski trip for the whole family.

Activities for the Whole Family

A family ski vacation at Christmas is an excellent opportunity to create lasting memories. Ski resorts offer a variety of activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. Here are some of the activities that families can enjoy together:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Skiing and snowboarding are the primary activities at ski resorts. Many resorts offer ski schools for beginners, and there are plenty of trails for advanced skiers.
  • Sledding and Tubing: Sledding and tubing are fun activities for families with young children. Most resorts have designated areas for sledding and tubing.
  • Ice Skating: Ice skating is a popular activity at ski resorts. Many resorts have ice skating rinks, and some offer lessons.
  • Sleigh Rides: Sleigh rides are a magical experience for families. Some resorts offer sleigh rides through enchanted forests or to see Santa Claus.
  • Night Skiing: Night skiing is a unique experience that families can enjoy together. Skiing under the stars can be a memorable experience.
  • Torchlight Parade: Many resorts host torchlight parades, where skiers and snowboarders ski down the mountain with torches.
  • Bonfires: Bonfires are a great way to warm up after a day on the slopes. Many resorts offer bonfires where families can roast marshmallows and enjoy hot chocolate.
  • Entertainment: Ski resorts offer a variety of entertainment options, including live music, magic shows, and comedy acts.
  • Christmas Market: Many resorts have Christmas markets where families can shop for gifts and enjoy festive activities.
  • Fireworks: Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate Christmas at ski resorts. Many resorts host fireworks displays on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve.

Overall, ski resorts offer a wide range of activities that cater to families with different interests and skill levels. Families can bond over skiing and snowboarding, enjoy festive activities, and create lasting memories together.

Skiing Levels and Terrain

When planning a family ski vacation, it’s important to consider the skiing levels and terrain available at the resort. A good family ski resort should offer a variety of terrain to cater to different skiing levels and abilities.

For beginners, it’s important to find a resort with gentle slopes and easy-to-navigate trails. Look for resorts with dedicated beginner areas and ski schools that offer lessons for both children and adults.

Intermediate skiers will want a resort with a variety of terrain, including groomed runs and some more challenging trails. Look for resorts with blue runs that offer a good mix of speed and challenge.

Advanced skiers will want a resort with plenty of steep and challenging terrain. Look for resorts with black diamond runs, moguls, and off-piste skiing opportunities.

When it comes to terrain, it’s important to find a resort with a good mix of groomed runs, off-piste skiing, and tree skiing. A good family ski resort should offer a variety of terrain for all skiing levels and abilities.

Some popular family ski resorts known for their variety of terrain include Solitude in Utah, Avoriaz in France, and Vermont’s Stowe Mountain Resort.

New Year Celebrations at Ski Resorts

Ski resorts are perfect for families who want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in a unique and exciting way. Many ski resorts offer a range of activities to make this holiday extra special. From fireworks to torchlight parades, there’s something for everyone.

Fireworks displays are a popular way to ring in the new year at ski resorts. Resorts like Aspen and Park City are known for their impressive fireworks shows. Families can gather together to watch the colorful displays light up the night sky.

Torchlight parades are another exciting New Year’s Eve tradition at ski resorts. Skiers and snowboarders carry torches down the mountain in a beautiful display of lights. Resorts like Steamboat Ski Resort and Canyons Village offer these parades, which are a great way to kick off the festivities.

After the torchlight parade, families can gather around a bonfire to warm up and enjoy some hot cocoa. Many ski resorts offer bonfires as part of their New Year’s Eve celebrations. It’s a great way to spend time with loved ones and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Overall, ski resorts offer a unique and exciting way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with family. With activities like fireworks, torchlight parades, and bonfires, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Apres Ski Scene

After a long day on the slopes, unwinding with some apres ski activities is a must for many families on their ski vacations. Luckily, many family ski resorts offer a lively apres ski scene that caters to all ages.

Restaurants and bars are usually the main attraction for apres ski activities. Most resorts have a variety of dining options ranging from casual to fine dining. Main Street is often the hub of activity, with a variety of restaurants and shops to explore. Families can enjoy a warm meal together while discussing their day on the mountain.

For those looking for a more lively atmosphere, many resorts offer a bustling apres ski scene. Bars and lounges offer a variety of drinks, including the popular vin chaud or mulled wine, which is a warm spiced wine that is perfect for sipping on a cold winter evening. Some resorts even offer live music and entertainment to keep the party going.

Overall, the apres ski scene at family ski resorts is a great way to cap off a day on the mountain. With a variety of dining and entertainment options available, families can find something to suit their tastes and preferences.

Unforgettable Christmas Ski Experiences

There’s nothing quite like spending the holidays on the slopes with family and friends. From skiing with Santa to enjoying a white Christmas, there are plenty of unforgettable experiences to be had at family-friendly ski resorts during the holiday season.

One of the most magical experiences is skiing under the twinkling Christmas lights. Many ski resorts decorate their slopes with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere for night skiing. It’s a great way to spend an evening with loved ones, skiing down illuminated runs and taking in the beautiful scenery.

Another must-do experience is meeting the skiing Santa. Many ski resorts have a tradition of having Santa hit the slopes in his ski gear, spreading holiday cheer and taking photos with skiers and snowboarders. It’s a fun and unique way to celebrate the holiday season.

Of course, there’s nothing quite like a white Christmas. Ski resorts provide the perfect backdrop for a picturesque holiday celebration. With snow-covered mountains and cozy lodges, it’s easy to get into the holiday spirit. Many resorts even offer special Christmas programs, such as caroling, tree lighting ceremonies, and visits from Santa.

While the holiday season is a popular time for skiing, it’s important to note that ski resorts can get crowded during this time. However, with a little planning and patience, families can still have a great time on the slopes. It’s also a good idea to take a break from skiing and enjoy some hot cocoa or glühwein (mulled wine) to warm up and relax.

Overall, a Christmas ski vacation is a great way to create lasting memories with loved ones. With so many festive activities and experiences, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular holiday tradition.

Choosing the Right Ski Resort

When it comes to planning a family ski vacation during Christmas, choosing the right ski resort is crucial. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a ski resort:

Location

Location is an important factor to consider when selecting a ski resort. North America offers a wide range of ski resorts that cater to families. Some popular ski destinations in North America include Colorado, Utah, Vermont, British Columbia, Montana, Banff, Lake Louise, and Vancouver. Each of these destinations offers unique skiing experiences, so it is important to research and select a resort that suits your family’s needs.

Weather

Colder temperatures are ideal for skiing, so it is important to select a resort that has a good snowfall record during the Christmas season. Resorts located in higher altitudes tend to have colder temperatures and more snowfall, making them ideal for skiing.

Crowds

During the Christmas season, ski resorts tend to be crowded. However, some ski resorts are less crowded than others. It is important to research and select a resort that is less crowded, especially if you are traveling with young children.

Amenities

Ski resorts offer a wide range of amenities, including ski schools, childcare services, and rental equipment. It is important to select a resort that offers amenities that suit your family’s needs. Resorts that offer childcare services can be beneficial for parents who want to hit the slopes without worrying about their children.

Budget

Ski vacations can be expensive, so it is important to select a resort that fits within your budget. Some ski resorts offer package deals that include lodging, lift tickets, and rental equipment, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing these items separately.

By considering these factors, families can select a ski resort that suits their needs and ensures an enjoyable Christmas vacation.

Additional Services and Amenities

Family ski vacations at Christmas can be a lot of fun, but they can also be stressful. Fortunately, many ski resorts offer additional services and amenities to make your trip more enjoyable.

For families with young children, babysitting services can be a lifesaver. Many ski resorts offer on-site childcare, so parents can hit the slopes while their kids are entertained and supervised. Utah ski resorts like Viceroy and Little Nell offer babysitting services, as do many other family-friendly ski destinations.

Ski rentals are another important consideration for families. Ski.com and Mountain Travel Experts are two popular websites that offer ski rentals and other equipment. These services can save families time and money, as they don’t have to worry about transporting their own gear.

In addition to skiing, many ski resorts offer other winter activities. Ballet West, for example, is a popular destination for families who want to enjoy a night of dance and music. Other resorts offer ice skating, snowmobiling, and even dog sledding.

Finally, it’s important to consider the accommodations when planning a family ski vacation. Many ski resorts offer family-friendly rooms and suites, as well as amenities like heated pools and hot tubs. The Viceroy and Little Nell are two Utah ski resorts that are known for their luxurious accommodations and family-friendly amenities.

Overall, there are many services and amenities available to families who are planning a ski vacation at Christmas. By taking advantage of these offerings, families can enjoy a stress-free and memorable winter getaway.

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