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Best Family Friendly Colorado Ski Resorts

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  • Post last modified:March 29, 2024

When planning a family vacation look no further than Colorado.  If you have already visited Colorado no reason not to return to the square.  Colorado is filled with opportunities to play in winter, from skiing and snowboarding to tubing and snowmobiling or even dipping your fly in the water for some winter fishing, there is more to do than you have time for.  The biggest problem you will have is where to choose as your vacation destination within Colorado.

I’ve spent a good part of my adult life in the Centennial State and will try to help you narrow down your choices to the best family friendly destination towns and resorts that will not disappoint even the most advanced skiers and riders.  These resorts are accessible by air or ground transfer from Denver and allow you to post up in one place and still have more than you can do in one vacation.  You will find great places to eat and drink, unique off slope activities, and tons and tons of the lightest fluffiest snow on earth!   

Our first resort is located just outside the town of Crested Butte (CB) which is a quant ex-mining town sitting all by itself in a ring of 13,000 and 14,000 mountains.  This location has the least variety of resort choices close by but offers a one of kind ski destination location, with plenty to do.  The final three ski resorts are located within a short drive of other major ski resorts, allowing you to move around a little and taste a bit more of what Colorado skiing and riding has to offer.  All four destination resorts offer a world class on mountain and off mountain experience with all the bells and whistles you could ask for in a vacation, skies the limit. 

1. Crested Butte Mountain Resort

Overview:

  • Located in the heart of Colorado, CBMR is a haven for adventure seekers and families alike.

Winter Activities:

a. Skiing:

  • Enjoy a variety of groomed trails suitable for all levels.
  • Challenge yourself on the legendary North Face and Headwall for extreme skiing.
  • Take advantage of the diverse terrain spanning 1,500 skiable acres.

b. Family-Friendly Fun:

  • Kid-Friendly Slopes: CBMR offers gentle slopes designed for families with little ones learning to ski or snowboard.
  • Terrain Diversity for All Ages: Families can explore green and blue groomed trails, ensuring there’s terrain suitable for every ability level.
  • Kid-Friendly Après-Ski: After a day on the slopes, families can head to Elk Avenue in downtown Crested Butte for a family-friendly après-ski scene.

c. Après-Ski Relaxation:

  • Explore Elk Avenue for a charming après-ski scene.
  • Wind down with friends and family, sharing stories of your day on the slopes.

Conclusion:

Pack your gear, embrace the untamed spirit, and let Crested Butte’s slopes weave their magic, providing not just thrilling adventures but also memorable family moments.

 

2. Snowmass Ski Resort

Overview:

  • A winter wonderland near Aspen, Colorado, with 3,362 acres of skiable terrain.

Winter Activities:

a. Skiing and Snowboarding:

  • 94 trails catering to all skill levels.
  • Explore the newly unveiled Hero’s glades, steep chutes, and vast views.

b. Family-Focused Fun:

  • Themed playrooms for kids.
  • Comprehensive ski lessons for all ages.

c. Après-Ski Adventures:

  • Explore vibrant wildflowers and extensive trails in summer.
  • Discover offerings like the Snowmass Bike Park, Lost Forest, and Camp Aspen Snowmass.

Conclusion:

Whether carving down groomed trails or enjoying family moments, Snowmass promises unforgettable winter experiences.

3. Beaver Creek Ski Resort

Overview:

  • A winter wonderland in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, known for its family-friendly vibe.

Winter Activities:

a. Skiing for All:

  • Gentle slopes for beginners.
  • Intermediate runs for families and challenging terrain for adventurers.

b. Family-Focused Activities:

  • 3pm Cookie Time tradition.
  • Exhilarating tubing at the Creekside Park.

c. Après-Ski Bliss:

  • Unwind at cozy fireside lounges with hot toddies.
  • Experience the perfect blend of luxury and accessibility.

Conclusion:

Gather your loved ones, embrace the snowy wonderland, and let Beaver Creek’s magic create lasting winter memories.

4. Keystone Ski Resort

Overview:

  • A mountain playground near Denver, offering year-round activities and adventures.

Winter Activities:

a. Skiing and Snowboarding:

  • Gentle slopes in the Haymeadow Park area for beginners.
  • Intermediate runs for families and challenging terrain for adventurers.

b. Family-Focused Fun:

  • Enjoy the daily tradition of warm chocolate chip cookies at 3 pm.
  • Exhilarating tubing at the Creekside Park.

c. Après-Ski Relaxation:

  • Unwind at cozy fireside lounges with hot toddies.
  • Keystone’s balance between luxury and accessibility.

Conclusion:

Gather your loved ones, embrace the snowy wonderland, and let Keystone’s magic create lasting winter memories.

In future posts, I will focus on other Colorado resorts and towns that also pack a punch in winter for other reasons.  I also plan to write about the endless, and bottomless, backcountry zones Colorado has to offer. Honestly, I will spend my lifetime trying to ski it all and still leave some tracks on the table for you all.  With it’s easy access, endless possibilities, and great people😉, Colorado should be on your list for you next family ski vacation.  I’ve tried to provide you with a good starting point but please also check out these other great resources: UncoverColorado blog, amazing resource (https://www.uncovercolorado.com/), the Colorado Tourism Office website (https://www.colorado.com/), or go straight to the source and check out the ski resort websites linked above.  I hope you have a blast on your vacation