Utah is home to some of the best ski resorts in Utah for families, offering incredible slopes and family-friendly amenities for a fun and memorable ski vacation. Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, finding the right resort with family-friendly amenities can make all the difference. At Red River Adventures, we specialize in providing unforgettable outdoor experiences in Utah, from guided rock climbing and rafting in the summer to ice climbing and guided backcountry skiing in Salt Lake City in the winter. We have years of expertise in Utah’s outdoor industry and a deep knowledge of Utah’s incredible landscapes. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ski resorts in Utah for families, from top-notch ski schools to exciting off-slope activities for all ages.
Top Family-Friendly Ski Resorts in Utah
These ski resorts offer the best experience for families, with a range of accommodations, activities, and services designed to make your family ski vacation as enjoyable as possible.
1. Deer Valley Resort
Why it’s great for families: Deer Valley Resort is known for its world-class service and offers a variety of family-friendly features, including dedicated children’s ski schools and daycare facilities.
Location: Park City, Utah
Family-Friendly Features:
- Top-rated ski school with programs for all ages and skill levels.
- Free ski valet services and easy-to-navigate beginner slopes.
Fun Fact: Deer Valley is one of the few ski resorts in the country that is ski-only, meaning no snowboarding is allowed, making it ideal for families focusing on skiing.
2. Brighton Ski Area
Why it’s great for families: Brighton Ski Area is known for its affordability and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers excellent terrain for beginners and intermediate skiers, making it perfect for families of all skill levels.
Location: Big Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Family-Friendly Features:
- Free skiing for kids aged 10 and under, which is a big draw for families.
- Brighton’s terrain park is a favorite for teenagers looking for extra adventure.
Fun Fact: Brighton is often recognized for its relaxed vibe and is one of the few resorts in Utah where every lift offers access to beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain.
Family Ski Vacation Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your family ski vacation in Utah is smooth and fun for everyone:
1. Take Advantage of Family Ski Schools
Many Utah resorts offer family ski packages that include lessons for both kids and adults. Booking ski school in advance can help everyone improve their skills while allowing parents to take time for themselves on the more advanced slopes.
2. Choose Accommodations with Family-Friendly Amenities
When booking accommodations, look for resorts or lodges that offer extra perks like kids’ clubs, game rooms, or even ski-in/ski-out access to make transitions from the slopes to your room as easy as possible.
3. Choose a Few Other Winter Activities to Introduce Your Kids To
While skiing is the main attraction, many Utah resorts offer other winter activities that can enhance your family vacation. Snowshoeing, sledding, tubing, or ice climbing are great alternatives or additions to skiing. These activities provide a break from the slopes and are an exciting way to introduce your kids to the joys of winter in different ways.
Off-Slope Activities for Families
1. Snow Shoeing
Many family-friendly resorts, like Solitude Mountain Resort, offer snowshoeing as an additional outdoor activity. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to explore Utah’s snowy landscapes at your own pace.
Fun Fact: Snowshoeing is a low-impact activity, making it ideal for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure.
2. Ice Skating
Most major resorts, including Snowbird and Sundance Mountain Resort, have outdoor ice skating rinks, perfect for families looking for a fun activity off the slopes.
Fun Fact: At some ice rinks, kids can use “skating aids” to help them glide. You might see little ones holding onto a penguin or seal-shaped helper—these tools give them extra stability as they learn to skate.
3. Ice Climbing
For adventurous families, ice climbing is a thrilling way to experience Utah’s winter in a completely different way. Red River Adventures offers half-day guided ice climbing in Salt Lake City for kids 8 and older, making it an exciting and unique winter activity that everyone in the family can enjoy.
Fun Fact: Ice climbing not only builds physical strength but also teaches kids teamwork and perseverance, making it a fun and educational activity.
From ski schools to off-slope activities, Utah is home to some of the best ski resorts for families. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort with all the amenities or a more laid-back, kid-friendly environment, Utah has something to offer every family. Plan your family ski vacation in Utah today and enjoy an unforgettable experience on the slopes.