How to find the best family ski resorts for all ability levels

It’s winter, so let’s talk about skiing! For many people and families, the only aspect of skiing enjoyed is the après-ski fashion scene. Items like silver Moncler jackets, indulgent Eugenia Kim hats, and cozy-chic footwear are appreciated. A good après-ski cocktail like a Kir Royale is also enjoyed. As well as activities like hot stone massages, outdoor soaks, and socializing over old-fashioned gossip. However, the skiing itself can be taken or left.

Which, let’s be honest - can make booking a ski trip for a family that enjoys skiing somewhat challenging! All family members have particular wants and needs to be met. One member prefers the wintery glamour. The children want ski lessons, kids clubs, and evening programs to socialize. Another member who is an athletic individual from Maine needs advanced skiing options. If friends were to join, one would require excellent snowboarding options while the other wants diverse dining experiences.

So, the question arises - where in the U.S. can ski trips be found that meet all of this variety of criteria? After extensive research gathering input from skiers, families with children, and travelers, here are some ski trip options that are highly likely to satisfy all participants.

When the focus is on first-time skiers: Aspen, CO

In Aspen Snowmass, the extraordinary ski instructors are highly impactful in helping both children and novice skiers get comfortable on their feet. Within just three days, all skiers were confidently making their way down the slopes. The progress can be swift!

The Limelight Hotel Snowmass delivers an experience well-suited for families with members at all skiing ability levels, allowing flexible coming and going from the slopes. The hotel maintains a lively energy through activities like movie nights and apres-ski drinks. The overall winter scene is enjoyed immensely.

However, the real draw of Snowmass lies in the quality of its ski and snowboard schools, consistently ranked among the best in the country for both beginners and advanced skiers. Lessons are offered in private, clinic, and group formats to challenge skiers of all experience levels. For complete novices, the first-timer lesson area is conveniently located mid-mountain alongside a cafeteria-style restaurant accessible by a gondola. This allows for an authentic on-slope experience.

While gliding down the mountains was a source of nerves, the blame cannot be placed on Snowmass itself. Aspen's cold temperatures and vibrant sunlight took the breath away. The town proved ideal for elevated, luxurious winter activities.

New York's majestic Adirondack Mountains

Lake Placid offers abundant opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. Home to some of the northeast's highest peaks, the surrounding area is well-suited for downhill skiing and snowboarding.

Nestled among stunning alpine scenery, Lake Placid contains several ski resorts comparable to renowned Western destinations but with more affordable pricing and convenient access. Terrain caters to all ability levels, from beginners seeking gentle slopes to experts traversing challenging runs. Children and less experienced riders are also accommodated with tailored options.

With plentiful ski trails descending from the region's impressive elevation, winter activity seekers can enjoy downhill thrills against a picturesque mountain backdrop. Both alpine skiing and snowboarding thrive in Lake Placid, allowing visitors to experience all this northern New York destination has to offer winter sports lovers. Its affordable trails and family-friendly atmosphere make it an ideal seasonal getaway.

For those wanting to simply stay indoors and wait out the winter season, many can relate. Travel during holiday times can feel akin to an extreme sport given the crowds and hustle. However, there are locations particularly picturesque in winter like New York City around Christmas with its festive atmosphere or Aspen following a snowfall with fresh powder. Additionally, some activities are uniquely experienced during winter months such as dog sledding through the arctic landscapes of Lapland or ice skating in the scenic surroundings of Central Park in New York City. Partaking in seasonal pursuits or visiting certain picturesque places during winter can make it a time worth venturing out.