Winter can be a magical time to explore the mountains, with snow-covered peaks, serene landscapes, and a wide range of family-friendly activities, or cozy romantic hideaways. From skiing and snow tubing to snowshoeing and sleigh rides, there are plenty of winter mountain activities for families and couples. These mountain getaways offer easy access and activities that are perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Park City, Utah
One of the most family-friendly ski towns in the country, Park City boasts an easy-to-navigate layout, excellent accommodations, and a broad range of activities for families with kids of all ages. With a large variety of slopes, from beginner runs to more challenging trails, you’ll also find a ski school for children and beginners. For something other than skiing, there are snowshoeing, snowboarding and snow tubing, while the Olympic Park offers opportunities for bobsledding, ziplining, and visiting the ski jump training center. Park City has a great vibe for families, with the town’s historic Main Street lined with restaurants, shops, and museums. The Park City Museum is a great place to explore local history, and there are several spas and resorts that offer child care services so parents can enjoy a quiet evening out. The town’s free bus system makes it easy to get around without a car, and there are plenty of ski-in/ski-out lodging options for added convenience.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Tahoe is one of the most iconic winter destinations in the US, known for its stunning alpine scenery, crystal-clear waters (transparent even in winter), and vast outdoor recreation options. The region features several family-friendly ski resorts, and ski schools cater to children and beginners, while advanced skiers and snowboarders can find plenty of challenging terrain. Lake Tahoe offers snowshoeing, ice skating, and even snowmobile tours. For young children, the area offers sleigh rides through the snow, a relaxing way to take in the winter scenery. Many of the resorts have excellent amenities for families, including ski schools, kids’ clubs, and on-site childcare. The town of South Lake Tahoe has family-oriented restaurants, cozy lodges, and indoor attractions such as the Lake Tahoe Ice Arena.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is the gateway town to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is open all year with free admission, and offers plenty of winter fun, from frozen waterfalls to accessible snow trails and fishing. The Smoky Mountains offer gorgeously scenic drives and the towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are bursting with family attractions. Mountaintop play areas and overlooks include a ski resort with beginner slopes and easy snow tubing for all ages, as well as indoor ice skating. Accommodations are plentiful, with hundreds of luxury Gatlinburg cabins throughout the foothills for a cozy stay surrounded by nature.
Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte is a hidden gem in Colorado that’s perfect for families seeking a laid-back mountain town with a focus on outdoor recreation and natural beauty. For skiing, there are plenty of beginner slopes and a ski school known for its personalized instruction. Families can also enjoy snowshoeing, tubing, and exploring the charming downtown area, which is beautifully decorated for the holidays. Cross-country skiing is also popular here, with miles of groomed trails in the surrounding wilderness. The Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers family-friendly lodging, and the town itself is welcoming to families, with affordable dining options and a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. The resort’s childcare and kids’ programs allow parents to enjoy a little adult time while their kids are safely entertained.
Whitefish, Montana
Nestled just outside Glacier National Park, Whitefish is an affordable, family-friendly mountain town with plenty of winter activities and easy access to stunning wilderness. Whitefish Mountain Resort is perfect for families, with a range of slopes that cater to all skill levels. The resort’s ski school is renowned for its kid-friendly approach, and there are several options for non-skiing family members as well, including snowshoeing and sleigh rides. The area around Whitefish also offers some of the best cross-country skiing in the region. The town of Whitefish is small and packed with charm. Enjoy the town’s friendly atmosphere, quaint shops, and excellent local restaurants. Whitefish also offers ice skating and a cozy downtown to explore.
Mount Hood, Oregon
For families on the West Coast, Mount Hood is a perfect winter destination that offers skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports with a lower-key, less crowded atmosphere compared to some other resorts. Family-friendly slopes and a great ski school make it easy for beginners. In addition there’s snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and tubing. The area also has fantastic sledding hills that are perfect for young kids who aren’t quite ready for skiing yet. The Timberline Lodge is an iconic spot, offering families the chance to stay in a historic lodge with beautiful mountain views. The lodge’s easy access to the slopes makes it ideal for families with young children, and the nearby town of Government Camp offers additional amenities and family-friendly dining.
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley is a hidden gem for family winter vacations, offering a more relaxed and less crowded experience than some of the more famous resorts. There’s excellent ski terrain for all levels, ice skating and bowling, a year-round outdoor heated pool, and easy transportation around town. The resort town of Ketchum offers a quaint, small-town atmosphere with great dining and shopping options. Sun Valley’s focus on families makes it an ideal destination for a memorable winter getaway.
Winter Park, Colorado
Less than 90 minutes from Denver, Winter Park is consistently rated as one of the most family-friendly ski resorts in the USA. Activities include ice bumper cars and snow tubing. Meet the Safety Patrol Dog Team, try some ice fishing, or soak in sulphur springs. The park offers adaptive programs for skiers with disabilities, and a guest-centered teaching approach in ski lessons to ensure that instruction is tailored to each family member’s goals and abilities.
