Go West: Top 6 Destinations for Kid-Friendly Winter Fun
If the phrase "family ski resort package" sets your head spinning (planning and expense and travel stress, oh my!), take heart and read on. From pulse-raising sport to rejuvenating spa, bolster your sense of joy this winter with our user-friendly information on hotels and adventures for all ages and budgets. Winter fun never seemed so fun (or so stress-free).
Whistler, British Columbia
Home of the world-renowned Blackcomb Resort, Whistler hosts majestic outdoor landscapes and a plethora of outdoor activities within easy proximity of the United States. Admirably, the resort is striving towards the ambitious goal of a zero emissions operating footprint. With a grand variety of options for adults, kids are accommodated just as well with sports school, daycare, The Core adventure camps and even the rare chance to play with their food, courtesy of a fondue dinner at Bavaria Restaurant.
Mount Hood, Oregon
Experience snowy splendor in an utterly breathtaking environment, from the summit of the mountain through the Columbia River Gorge below. During the winter season at Ski Bowl, everyone in your clan can enjoy snowboarding, skiing, snow tubing, snowmobiling and even sleigh rides. With the country's only year-round ski area, families visiting Mount Hood can hit the slopes any time you'd like at Timberline. Chilly little fact: Timberline Lodge provided the backdrop for the fright classic, The Shining!
Bend & Sunriver, Central Oregon
A mere 20 minutes from the towering winter excitement of Mount Bachelor, these graceful resort communities have all your needs covered, from family vacations and romantic getaways to business meetings and group gatherings. Voted one of the Top 50 Ski Resort Hotels in North America by Conde Nast Traveler, Sunriver is at the ready with a well-kept location, awe-inspiring views, heart and smiling staff. In addition to standard winter sports at both locations, enjoy a cave tour or bonfire snowshoeing trip with Wanderlust Tours. Pet friendly accommodations are readily available so Fido can come along too.
Lake Tahoe, California
With options for every type of vacationer and snow enthusiast (or avoider!), Tahoe truly offers a comprehensive catalog of fun for all & aims to please, with most resorts offering an absolute wealth of information on activities, with assistance on planning, packages and FAQ. Whether you choose the posh Ritz-Carlton, the rustic Village Condos or action-packed Squaw Valley, you'll find downhill & cross country skiing, snowboarding, sledding, tubing, snowshoeing and ice skating, as well as fireplaces, saunas, heated indoor and outdoor pools and a cozy selection of shopping, bars and restaurants. Pets are welcome at many locations, including Zephyr Cove Resorts. Baby sitting service All About Kids covers the entire area for your childcare needs.
Tuolumne County, California
For those seeking quiet respite from the vigorous crowd, calm, low key Tuolumne Country is the destination. Pack your sledding gear, as some of the most incredible hills are on the way, just off the highway between Mi Wuk Village and Long Barn Ice Skating Rink. Ski, board and shoe at Dodge River Resort, or frolick at Leland High Sierra, the largest snow play area in the West!
Mammoth Mountain, Southern California
Called the best-kept secret in Southern California, Mammoth received more snowfall last year than anywhere else worldwide. If you're driving, your relaxation can begin on the way in, with a stop at soothing, steamy Travertine Hot Springs. Those preferring to travel by air will have no problem, as flights are both easily accessible and conveniently priced. Experience a truly alpine ride of your life and glide through the Eastern Sierra wilderness with Mammoth Dogsled Tours. The luxuriously adventurous Snowcreek Resort provides well-designed packages for snow or spa, in-house childcare and kid's craft activities too.
Did we miss your favorite destination for kid-friendly winter fun?
