Snowmass is annually ranked by ski magazine readers among the top ski resorts in North America for families. Not only does Snowmass’ abundance of ski in, ski out accommodations make a Snowmass family ski vacation stress-free and convenient, but the resort’s world-class ski school and childrens’ facilities, like the Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center make learning to ski fun for kids. The resort also features fun, on-mountain zones for kids to explore tree trails and learn about Snowmass’ wildlife and natural habitat.
Another important factor that makes Snowmass popular with families is that the terrain is varied and offers tons of options for every skier and rider, so parents can also enjoy a family ski vacation to Snowmass.
Don't forget, kids under six ski for free at Aspen Snowmass!
Located less than 250 yards from the chairlifts, the Pokolodi Lodge makes getting out the door in the morning with everyone and their gear in tact a cinch. Plus, kids love splashing around in the the Pokolodi Lodge’s outdoor heated swimming pool.
It’s important to have room for the family to spread out and relax and be able to gather around the dinner table, which is why the family-friendly Crestwood Condominiums is favorite Snowmass accommodation for families. Plus, the well-appointed condominiums offer ski in, ski out access, which takes a lot of guesswork out of getting the kids to ski school on time in the morning. An heated outdoor pool and two outdoor hot tubs will have kids and parents alike on cloud nine after a fun filled day on the slopes.
Snowmass offers your adventurous little ones a host of kiddie-tailored tree runs like Skateboard Alley, Prospector Trail and Hidden Highway. Kids love zipping down Snowmass’ tree trails, which are meant to give kids (and parents) a feeling like a roller coaster ride and the sense of exploring the wilderness.
The 25,000-square-foot childrens’ facility was built by the same design studio that created Universal Studios and numerous children’s museums. Featuring a playground, ski school, rental shop with kids gear, a puppet theater, charming cubbies and plenty of tables for arts and crafts and enjoying cookies, the Treehouse in Snowmass is a one-stop-spot for kids, and you won’t find anything comparable at other ski resorts. The Treehouse Kids’ Adventure Center also includes cafeteria and Colorado-state licensed daycare for children ages eight weeks to four years old. Interactive rooms include The Bear Den, where the daily puppet shows take the stage, and the forest-themed Beaver Lodge playroom, where skiing and science lessons are wrapped up into an unforgettable experience for kids.
The new Elk Camp Gondola mid-station lodge is not only an incredible new on-mountain restaurant where families can enjoy a gourmet lunch or hot chocolate break together, it’s also host of one of Snowmass’ newest, and most popular, weekly events. Every Friday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. during the winter months, Ullr Nights transforms the Elk Camp area into a family-friendly party. Kid’s love the s’mores and hot chocolates by the bonfire, ice skating on the pond, ski biking and sledding hill, while parents will enjoy relaxing with a glass of wine while listening to the live music. Ullr Nights at Elk Camp only costs $10 for adults and $5 for children age four to 12 (kids ages 3 and under are free). And don’t forget it’s always free for kids six and under to ski at Snowmass and the other three Aspen Snowmass mountains.
For families with a need for speed, the Children’s Race Arena and NASTAR race course are awesome setups. Kids and parents, alike, race down a dual, or side-by-side, course. At the finish line, an announcer calls out the times and allows kids to feel like Lindsey Vonn or Bode Miller. The Race Arena is located between Dawdler and Scooper, two runs the entire family will love.
Most of the Snowmass family restaurants are located at the Base Village and Snowmass Mall. Slice, a pizza joint, and the Snowmass Bakery share the rustic red barn in the Base Village and are two great options for a quick and easy family meal. If you’re looking for an evening activity combined with dinner, head to Snowmass’ new bowling alley, which features a great menu which will delight kids and parents alike. For an after-dinner sweet treat head to the The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in the Snowmass Mall.