While you can plan a last-minute family ski resort vacation, the earlier you decide, the more options you will have and the less you will pay. To determine which ski resort is right for you, consider:
The ski resorts’ seasons and average snowfall vary. This is especially important if you’re visiting early or late in the season. If you’ll be skiing during peak season, choose a ski resort with more lifts and terrain, and consider adding days to account for additional travel time and crowds on the slopes.
Many ski resorts are at least a half-day’s travel time to the nearest major airport. If you’re planning a shorter visit, consider a ski resort near a major airport, such as Breckenridge in Colorado or Park City in Utah, or fly into a smaller nearby airport.
If you’ll have a mix of skiers and non-skiers, consider a ski resort that offers more dining, shopping, nightlife, and additional activities such as tubing, ice skating or snow shoeing. You’ll also want a resort that offers ski lessons for your tadpole (ages vary) or sitter services for non-skiers (not all do). If you’ll have a mix of beginner to expert skiers, you’ll want a ski resort that offers a good mix of runs.
You’ll be out of travel mode and onto the slopes with minimized stress.
They can sell out during busy times of the season.
If you get fitted with your rentals in the afternoon or evening of your arrival, you will spend less time in line and be ready to hit the slopes first thing in the morning.
Don’t show up right before your (or your tadpoles’) lesson. Skip the line, so everyone is relaxed and ready to have fun!
We all do better when we’re not hungry. You can leave snacks in your car, rent a locker or put them in your own pocket for a pick-me-up!
This can’t be said enough. High elevation, lots of sunshine and physical exertion will wipe you out.
Exactly how much you layer will depend on temperatures, but here’s what we suggest for first-time skiers. While you shouldn’t spend a fortune, you’d be wise to buy quality items that are sure to keep you warm and dry.
Celebrate your first ski trip planning with this DIY "Our First Snow" Wood Ornament. This simple handmade keepsake is a great way to get everyone excited about the trip and is the perfect memento of your family’s first ski trip. We’ve made an easy tutorial to follow, so even the tadpoles can join in on the craft fun. Hoppy memories deserve to be celebrated, and this DIY Our First Snow Wood Ornament will have the whole family excited about their first snowy adventure!
Get the Instructions
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