Enjoying the Slopes with the Kids: A Guide to Skiing in Vail

Skiing is a favorite winter activity that the whole family can enjoy. However, finding the perfect ski resort for your family can be quite a challenge, especially if you have kids. If you’re planning a winter vacation that includes skiing, then look no further than Vail, Colorado. Vail is the perfect family-friendly destination with plenty of slopes, ski schools, and amenities that cater to families. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about skiing in Vail with kids.

Lift Tickets:

Going on a ski trip with your family can be quite costly, especially when it comes to lifting tickets. If you’re planning to visit Vail or any other Vail resorts, we suggest getting the Epic Pass for your family. Kids under four can ski for free, and passes start at $473 for kids under 13 and $929 for those 13 and older. If you’re only skiing for a day or two, a day pass may be a better option. However, if you’re skiing for a week or exploring other resorts, the pass will definitely be worth the investment.

Choose the Right Slopes:

When skiing with kids, it’s important to choose the right slopes. Vail ski resort offers a variety of slopes, ranging from beginner to expert. If you have young children or are skiing for the first time, consider starting with the beginner slopes such as the Lionshead or the Golden Peak, which offer gradual inclines, slow lifts, and easy terrain.

For older kids or more experienced skiers, the Eagle Bahn Gondola offers challenging terrain and a more advanced skiing experience. When skiing, it’s recommended to stick to the left side for Practice Parkway. This area offers a range of green and blue trails. For a more thrilling experience, venture into the woods to explore the Kids Adventure Zones. These zones are clearly marked on the trail map, so don’t hesitate to try out a few. The resilience and confidence your kids will gain from this experience is truly remarkable.

For a thrilling skiing experience, head to lift three (Wildwood Express Lift) and lift four (Mountaintop Express Lift) where you can enjoy breathtaking views and exciting trails. Your children will especially enjoy the green trail of Swingsville, and when they’re ready for more challenges, they can try out the blues such as Cappuccino and Slifers Express. While our kids love exploring the wooded trails, we always exercise caution as some of them can lead to more difficult black diamond trails. Vail is an incredible ski resort suitable for all ages. It was truly remarkable to witness the progress our children made in just one week at Vail.

Enroll Your Kids in Ski Lessons:

Enrolling your kids in ski lessons is another essential step if you’re planning to ski in Vail. The Vail Ski and Snowboard School caters to kids of all ages, and they are designed to help them develop the skills needed to enjoy skiing while ensuring their safety. As it was our kids’ initial experience skiing on the west coast, we deemed it wise to enroll them in some ski lessons. Vail ski resort has excellent ski schools, such as the Vail Ski and Snowboard School, which offers lessons to kids as young as three years old. The instructors come from various parts of the world and are patient, friendly, and knowledgeable, and they ensure that the lessons are fun while teaching your kids proper skiing techniques. Our children joined us after their lessons and their overall attitude and perception of the mountain was life-changing.

Rent Your Gear in Vail:

Renting your skiing gear in Vail is another wise decision for traveling with kids. Save the hassle and cost of bringing your equipment on vacation and rent everything you need in Vail. The ski rental shops offer a variety of gear, including skis, boots, helmets, and poles, for kids of all ages and sizes. In addition, the rental shops are conveniently located near the lifts and ski schools, making collecting and dropping off your gear easy.

Take Advantage of the Family-Friendly Amenities:

Vail is truly a family-friendly destination, and the amenities cater to families with kids of all ages. From on-site childcare services to free concerts and activities, there’s always something for the whole family to enjoy. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, including kid-friendly menus, outdoor hot tubs, and heated pools. After a long day on the slopes, relax and unwind as a family under the stars while enjoying the breathtaking views of the mountain scenery.

Skiing in Vail with kids can be a magical and unforgettable experience for the whole family. With our tips on choosing the right slopes, enrolling your kids in ski lessons, renting your gear, and taking advantage of the family-friendly amenities, you’ll ensure a safe and enjoyable skiing experience for everyone. Vail ski resort has everything you need for a perfect family ski vacation, and with the right planning and preparation, your family will surely have the time of their lives on the slopes.