8 Best Kid Friendly Colorado Ski Resorts (from a Colorado Native)

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Colorado is almost synonymous with skiing. With 300 inches of snow fall every winter, and some of the biggest ski resorts in the United States, is it any surprise? Consistent high elevation, sunny skies, and gorgeous scenery make Colorado the go-to skiing location for thousands of eager family skiers every year.  My family was one of them, and I was raised on Colorado powder, and taught most of my kids to ski here. There’s so much to love about Colorado skiing!

Colorado is home to 30 ski resorts that cater to everyone from beginners to experts and budget skiers to full luxury experiences. With so many options it can be really hard to narrow down the best ski resort for your family ski vacation, so I’m going to share my favorites. These are resorts that have proven themselves over and over again as a great places for family skiing all around!

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Free Skiing in Colorado with Kids

Truthfully, with so many different ski resorts in Colorado, choosing the best Colorado ski resort family vacation can be a bit of a challenge. One thing you need to closely consider is your ski trip cost, and there are a few great options for kids to sk ifree in Colorado.

If you’re heading to any of the Vail resorts (Keystone, Breckenridge, Vail, and Crested Butte), make sure to sign your elementary age kids up for the Epic School Kids pass so they can ski free, or if you’re headed to Southern Colorado, the Power Pass gives kids 12 and under a free season pass. Several other resorts have deals where younger kids ski free, and often lodging packages can give you discounted ski lift tickets.

Not sure if Colorado is the place for you?
Read: 9 Best Utah Ski Resorts for Families and 6 Great California Ski Resorts with Kids

Arapahoe Basin Colorado
Best For Budget Skiers, Laid Back Families, Young Kids

Location: Dillon Colorado

Adult Ticket Price: $79
Child Ticket Price: $39
Where to Stay near Arapahoe Basin: Gateway Mountain Lodge

If I could send every ski family to one resort in Colorado to ski with kids, I would send them to Arapahoe Basin. It’s where I taught most of my kids to ski, and checks every box for family skiing in Colorado. I honestly feel like it’s the best family ski resort in Colorado. It’s easily one of the best values for skiing in Colorado, and the terrain is incredible (which is really what matters most). While A-Basin (as the locals call is), doesn’t have much in the way of frills (in fact, the lodge will make you feel like you stepped back in time), it’s the most kid friendly Colorado ski resort. If you’re looking for a luxury Colorado ski resort, head to Vail, but if you want a family friendly Colorado ski resort where you can just have fun skiing together (on incredible terrain), this is the place to do.

A-Basin is an old school type of ski resort. The lodge is an old A-frame, the food is filling and won’t break the bank, and on a normal year, no one will blink an eye if you hang out in the lodge with a toddler or a baby for the day. In fact, they even have a kids play area in the upper floor of the lodge.

It’s the kind of place where no one really cares what you’re wearing, and where you’ll regularly get cheers from the chairlift if you’re doing an awesome job flying through the powder.

As a ski parent, I love Arapahoe Basin because the beginner area and the Pallavicini lift (the area with the best and steepest skiing) are right next to each other. That means that one parent can ski with the kids in the beginner area while the other one takes a lap on the Palli lift (at Vail, we would take 3 lifts just to ski the terrain we wanted from the beginner lift). Once your kids move beyond the learning area, you’ll appreciate that the whole front side of the mountain funnels everyone into one place, so you never have to worry about losing someone.

Want to know more about Arapahoe Basin? Check out our full review of A-Basin here.

Loveland Ski Area
Best No-Frills Discount Colorado Ski Area

Georgetown Colorado

Adult Ticket Price: $89
Child Ticket Price 6-14: $35
Lesson for Kids: $129
Where To Stay near Loveland Ski Area: Historic Windsor Hotel

Loveland Ski Area is the closest ski area to Denver, and without weekend traffic you can be here in one hour from the Denver metro area. If you want to ski near Denver and don’t want to battle the traffic mess, Loveland is the best Colorado ski resort for your family.

Known for being incredibly family-friendly, as well as affordable and accessible. The highlight of the terrain is that as it goes up Loveland Pass, the ski resort actually skis over I-70’s famous Eisenhower tunnel.

Loveland ski resort is divided into 2 separate areas, Loveland Valley and Loveland Basin. Loveland Valley is the place to go for the best beginner skiing in Colorado. It’s incredibly kid-friendly and allows kids who are learning how to ski a nice safe place to learn without lots of advanced skier traffic. Tickets to Loveland Valley are just $50 for adults and $30 for kids. Loveland Basin is the larger and main part of the resort that has terrain for all ability levels, and a higher priced lift ticket. They also offer childcare if you want to ski without kids for a day or two or if your kids need a break from skiing.

If you’re looking for one of the best deals on Colorado skiing, check out the Loveland ski season pass. Not only does it allow you free skiing at Loveland, but it has one of the most extensive reciprocal ski-free programs that we’ve ever seen, giving you free skiing at tons of other Colorado ski resorts.

Steamboat Resort
Best Wild West Ski Resort in Colorado

Best for getting a taste of the Wild West, multigenerational ski trips, and lower elevation to avoid altitude sickness

Location: Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Adult Ticket Price: $199
Child Ticket Price 5-12: $139, 12 and under ski free with an adult purchasing a 5+ day ticket
Where to Stay: Gravity Haus Steamboat
Also Read: Best Ski In Ski Out Lodging in Steamboat

Steamboat Springs, often called “Ski Town USA,” is famous for its ski champions, but what makes it a gem for families is its unique, laid-back vibe that feels like you’re in your own little winter paradise.

Even though Steamboat has produced 88 ski champions, it’s all about families here, which is why it’s one of the best family-friendly ski resorts in Colorado. Right from the start, you’ll notice the rustic, charming ski village where kids (and all their gear!) are pulled to the slopes in wagons. As a parent, this is a huge win—no need to lug everything yourself, so you can save your energy for skiing! The resort offers runs for all skill levels, so whether you have beginners or seasoned skiers in your crew, everyone will find something they enjoy.

If your family is new to skiing or just wants to brush up, Steamboat’s ski school is fantastic, offering both half-day and full-day lessons. It’s a great way to get everyone comfortable and ready to tackle the mountain.

Steamboat is packed with little perks for kids, like a dedicated magic carpet lift just for them, which makes the whole experience even more fun. And for parents, the abundance of lifts means you can recharge your legs whenever you need with a fast run of your own. After a long day, I highly recommend heading over to Strawberry Park Hot Springs—it’s the perfect way to relax, and trust me, your whole family will love it!

With its easygoing charm, kid-friendly features, and great variety of terrain, Steamboat stands out as one of the top ski resorts in Colorado for families. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or just soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a spot that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Crested Butte
Best Undiscovered Ski Resort in Colorado

Location: Crested Butte, Colorado

Adult Ticket Price: $174
Child Ticket Price: (Ages 5-12)|$89
Full-Day Ski Lesson for Kids: Pricing starts at $272
Where To Stay in Crested Butte: The Nordic Inn or The Grand King Lodge

Crested Butte is a hidden gem for families looking for an incredible ski experience without the overwhelming crowds of other big-name resorts. Despite being part of the Epic Pass, it maintains a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, even on weekends, because of its remote location. On the map it looks close to other resorts, but to get there in the winter requires a long drive. The ticket prices are more affordable compared to many other Vail resort properties in Colorado, and you’ll find everything from lodging to food is reasonably priced, making it a great option for families on a moderate budget.

Read: The Parents Guide to Crested Butte with Kids

The resort offers something for every skier in the family, from absolute beginners to advanced experts. For young kids or first-time skiers, the magic carpet and Peachtree Lift provide gentle slopes without the stress of overcrowded runs. As they progress, the Red Lady Express offers longer green runs and fun tree trails. For intermediate and advanced skiers, the terrain off the Paradise lift is fantastic, with plenty of exciting secret trails and jumps, and experts will love the challenging terrain, including the North Face T-bar and Rambo, the steepest run in North America.

What sets Crested Butte apart for families is how easy it is to navigate and the fact that crowds are minimal, even during peak times. The ski school is top-notch, with experienced instructors who’ve been with the resort for years, ensuring your kids get the best lessons in a less crowded environment. Plus, with many of the trails naturally funneling to the bottom, parents can relax knowing their kids won’t get lost on the mountain.

Beyond skiing, Crested Butte offers plenty of family-friendly activities like free ice skating, sledding, and even dog sledding. After a fun day on the slopes, you can head into town for a stroll along Elk Avenue, grab some ice cream at Tin Cup, or enjoy a pizza at Secret Stash. For families wanting a relaxed, budget-friendly ski trip with a variety of terrain and fun activities, Crested Butte is hard to beat.

Keystone 
Best Colorado Ski Resort Fun Things For Kids

Location: Keystone, Colorado

Adult Ticket Price: $169
Child Ticket Price: (Ages 5-12)|$104
Full-Day Ski Lesson for Kids: Pricing starts at $189
Where To Stay at Keystone: Hyatt Place Keystone – BOOK FAST – It’s affordable and fills quickly
Also Read: Best Ski In Ski Out Stays in Summit County Colorado

If you want a big resort experience without the hefty price tag of Vail, consider taking your family to Keystone for your next ski trip.

Keystone is a sprawling resort with 3,000 acres spread over three peaks and five bowls. Located just 100 miles from Denver, it’s a convenient option, though weekend traffic can turn the drive into a 3-hour journey, so staying at or near the resort is recommended.

Keystone is a fantastic family-friendly ski resort, roughly two hours from Denver Airport (though weekend traffic can make it a 3 to 4-hour drive back). We love that Keystone offers free parking, a charming ski village, and plenty of entertainment to keep the kids happy. For those seeking ski-in/ski-out accommodations, you’ll find many options—though some might require a short walk through Keystone Village.

If you’re looking for deals, Keystone is perfect for families, as kids under 12 ski free when you book a stay of two or more nights.

One of Keystone’s standout features is its Kidtopia area, home to what they claim is the world’s largest snow fort. Here, kids can build their own forts, mingle with other kids, enjoy parades and fireworks, and snack on daily warm cookies. Most Kidtopia events are free, which we love, and it’s just another reason why Keystone is one of the top Colorado ski resorts for families. You’ll also find snowshoeing, tubing, and ice skating in the village. Though Keystone stands alone, it’s quickly earning its reputation as one of the best family ski destinations in Colorado.

For a bit more adventure, check out the A51 Terrain Park, which caters to all skill levels, or try one of their snowcat tours.

Copper Mountain 
Best Colorado Trick Skiing + Free Snowcat Skiing

Location: Frisco, Colorado

Adult Ticket Price: $159
Child Ticket Price: (Ages 6 – 12): $99
Where To Stay: Cambira Hotel
Also Read: Best Ski In Ski Out Lodging in Summit County Colorado

Located just 75 miles (about 2-3 hours with traffic) from Denver, Copper Mountain is an easily accessible and family-friendly ski resort in Colorado. Ask any local, and you’ll likely hear Copper Mountain recommended for families looking for a great ski experience.

Why? For starters, everything at Copper Mountain is within walking distance. On-resort condos are conveniently located in the central village, along with plenty of kid-friendly restaurants, so comfort and convenience are covered. This makes staying here especially convenient with kids! The shuttle to West Village, where the ski school is located, is also right in the village center.

One of the best parts of skiing at Copper Mountain with kids is Woodward at Copper, an indoor action sports complex designed specifically for kids. Woodward offers a variety of ways for kids to learn new skills, depending on their level. With nine different ski and snowboard parks, plus an indoor training facility with a foam pit, trampolines, and roller skis, it’s an awesome place for kids to safely build the skills they need to tackle the terrain park.

For more advanced skiers, Copper Mountain’s free snowcat skiing to some of the mountain’s toughest terrain will wow your older kids. Many young skiers dream of heliskiing or snowcat skiing, but the high cost and remote locations like Canada or Alaska make it out of reach. Imagine your ski-loving teen’s reaction when they find out they can go snowcat skiing on your Colorado family ski trip—it’s sure to be a highlight!

If you’re planning some non-ski days during your trip, I highly recommend signing your kids up for another Woodward session or checking out their open barn times. And for some after-dinner fun, take a short 15-minute drive east to the Dillon Ice Castles for an unforgettable experience.

Breckenridge Resort 
Best Colorado Resort For Variety and Best Colorado Ski Town

Location: Breckenridge, Colorado

Adult Ticket Price: $147
Child Ticket Price: (Ages 5 -12 ) | $96
Full-Day Ski Lesson for Kids: $225
Where To Stay at Breckenridge: Grand Lodge Peak 7
Also Read: Best Ski In Ski Out Lodging at Breckenridge

Breckenridge Resort has been one of our family’s go-to ski destinations, covering a whopping 2,903 acres with 23 lifts and about 304 inches of snow each season. It’s part of the Vail family of resorts, so you know it’s designed with families in mind, but Breckenridge has its own personality that we love.

What makes Breckenridge stand out for us is how seamlessly the resort connects to the town. It feels like you’re skiing right into the heart of a vibrant ski town full of charm. We love exploring the cute shops and grabbing a bite at one of the many restaurants, all without the packed crowds and steep prices you get at Vail. For us, Breckenridge is hands down one of the best ski towns in Colorado, especially with kids in tow.

Now, Breckenridge is huge—like, really huge. With five different peaks, all offering different types of terrain, you’ve got endless options. But I’ll be honest, it’s easy to get a little lost if you don’t keep track of where you are. The runs sometimes funnel down to different base areas, so we always set up a plan in case someone gets separated. It’s a must when you’re dealing with a mountain this size!

Here’s a quick breakdown of where we like to ski based on everyone’s level:

• Beginners: Peak 8 is perfect for getting the hang of things.
• Intermediate Skiers: Peaks 6 and 7 offer some really fun runs.
• Advanced Intermediates: We’ve found Peak 9 to be just right.
• Experts: Peak 10 and the top of Peak 8 are where the real challenges lie.

If you’re on the hunt for a ski resort that gives you a ton of variety on the mountain and the charm of a real Colorado ski town, Breckenridge is a great choice. It’s one of those places we keep coming back to, and every time, it feels like the perfect mix of adventure and family fun!

Vail
Best Colorado Luxury Skiing and Extreme Ski Terrain

Location: Vail, Colorado 

Adult Ticket Price: (Ages 13+) |$219
Child Ticket Price: (Ages 5 – 12) |$89
Full-Day Ski Lesson for Kids: (ages 5-14) |$265
Where to Stay at Vail: The Lodge at Vail
Also Read: The Best Family Friendly Ski Lodging in Vail

Vail is the grandfather of Colorado ski resorts, established back in 1962. Some of its original buildings are still around, giving the whole place a classic, timeless vibe that’s hard to beat.

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it—Vail is incredibly popular, which means it gets very crowded during the holidays, and you’ll pay top dollar for just about everything, from parking to dining and gear rentals. But if you go into your Vail family ski trip knowing that, you can focus on soaking up the incredible amenities and enjoying some of the best ski terrain Colorado has to offer.

Vail is fantastic for families because it has an amazing kids’ ski learning area while also offering some of the most challenging expert terrain in the state. So whether you have beginners or seasoned skiers, Vail has something for everyone.

And if your kids want more than just skiing, they’ll love Adventure Ridge at the top of Vail Mountain. The gondola ride up is an experience in itself, and once at the top, there’s tubing, snow-biking, snowshoeing, and even mini snowmobiles for the little adventurers. It’s the perfect way to keep everyone entertained.

Overall, Vail has outstanding terrain and family-friendly programs, but it’s definitely more of a luxury experience. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly ski trip, this may not be your spot, but if you want a high-end family ski vacation with top-notch amenities, Vail is the place to be.

Read Next: Ultimate Guide to Cat Skiing

Downsides of Skiing in Colorado

The biggest downside of skiing in Colorado is the traffic. While most resorts appread to be easily accessible from Denver, the traffic situation can be horrible. What should be a 90 minute drive often turns into a 3-4 hour drive on weekends. A majority of Colorado ski resorts are along I-70, which only has 2 lanes in each direction in most places. Locals often leave the Denver areas at 5:30am on weekends and will either stop skiing at 1pm to beat the traffic or stay in the mountains until later in the evening when the traffic has died down. If you’re planning a Colorado ski trip, save your sanity and stay as close to the resort as possible so you don’t have to deal with this!

What is the Best Time to Ski in Colorado?

The best time to ski in Colorado generally falls between December and March, with peak conditions in January and February. However, the ski season can stretch from late November to late April, depending on the resort. Arapahoe Basin is often open in late October and stays open until May or later. Early and late-season skiing may offer discounted rates but less reliable snow conditions.

How Do We Choose the Right Colorado Ski Resort?

The “right” ski resort depends on your family’s needs, including skill level, amenities, and budget. Resorts like Vail and Aspen offer luxury amenities and diverse terrain, while smaller resorts like Eldora and Loveland might be more budget-friendly and family-focused. Consider the balance of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs when choosing.

What Should We Wear Skiing in Colorado?

Wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer like a fleece, and a waterproof, breathable outer layer. Don’t forget gloves, a beanie, and snow goggles. Dressing in layers allows you to adjust your clothing based on changing weather conditions.
Read: 8 Essential Pieces of Ski Clothing for Kids

Do We Need to Take Ski Lessons on a Colorado Ski Trip?

If you’re new to skiing, lessons can be a great investment, as they provide essential skills and safety knowledge. Most resorts offer group and private lessons for both children and adults. Some resorts offer family packages for lessons, making it more affordable.

If you are at least a solid intermediate skier and comfortable on skis, you can also consider teaching your own kids to ski. The basics aren’t too difficult to teach, and can stretch your ski budget significantly farther.

How Much Will a Colorado Ski Trip Cost?

The cost of a Colorado ski trip can vary widely based on factors like lodging, ski passes, lessons, and meals. Some Colorado resorts offer family packages that can provide savings. Research and book in advance to take advantage of any discounts.

The most budget friendly resorts in Colorado are Arapahoe Basin and Loveland, and the most expensive resorts are Vail and Aspen. Any Colorado ski resort can have great snow, so everyone can have great skiing no matter where they go!

How Do We Deal with Altitude Sickness when Skiing in Colorado?

Altitude sickness is common for visitors who are not acclimated to Colorado’s high elevations. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, and taking it easy for the first day can help. If symptoms persist, consider seeking medical attention.
Read: How to Avoid Altitude Sickness While Skiing

What Non-Skiing Activities Are Available in Colorado in the winter?

Most Colorado ski resorts offer a variety of other activities like sledding, snowshoeing, tubing, snowmobiling and even indoor activities like swimming pools and arcades. These can be great alternatives or additions to skiing for family members who want variety. If you’re near Silverthorne, make sure to check out the Ice Castles and buy your tickets in advance. We LOVE visiting there and the kids have such a blast exploring the Colorado ice castles.

Colorado is famed for its world-class skiing for a reason. Turning out Olympian skier after Olympian skier, alongside champions in all other winter sports – it’s the epicenter of all things snow in the US. That’s why it’s often considered that the best place for a family ski trip is Colorado. The wide variety of Colorado family ski resorts means that there’s something for everyone to ski in Colorado, so book at trip and take advantage of all the family resorts in Colorado.