Ski vacations for families worth the flight in the U.S. and beyond

Head to the mountains for a ski holiday. Here are five ideas to consider.

Beaver Creek, Colorado

Winter trips to this Colorado mountain town offer an invigorating blend of high-altitude adventure, luxurious amenities and quality family time. After an action-packed day of skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing or Nordic skiing, be on the lookout for the warm chocolate chip cookies served each afternoon, a long-standing Beaver Creek tradition. Later, relax while strolling through the charming town where high-end shopping and culinary options beckon. For an extra special dining experience, an open sleigh-ride to Beano’s Cabin or Allie’s Cabin won’t disappoint. The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek’s ski-in, ski-out accommodations simplify the parental ground game. Located just steps from the ski school, an on-site ski rental shop, and a signature ski concierge, guests will also appreciate access to luxurious baby products, complimentary s’mores kits by the outdoor fire pit, family board games and kid-specific spa treatments at the Exhale Spa.

MORE INFO hyatt.com; beavercreek.com; colorado.com.

Sun Valley, Idaho

It’s a winter wonderland serving up more than 2,000 skiable acres nestled within Idaho’s Smoky and Pioneer Mountains. Two mountains offer families a range of options. Dollar is the perfect playground for beginners, proffering gentle slopes and welcoming groomers. Bald Mountain, considered the crown jewel, stands apart for its 3,400 vertical feet of diverse terrain, challenging descents and exhilarating adventures for the seasoned snow seeker. Check out the resort’s terrain parks for fun features including jumps, rails, and boxes. Beyond the slopes, take a sleigh ride to dinner, ice skate, go bowling, and play arcade games. The resort’s winter camp offers nature adventures, snow yoga and snowshoeing for youngsters.

MORE INFO sunvalley.com

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada

With more than 8200 acres of skiable terrain, the resort is reported to be the largest in North America, and famous for towering peaks, pristine runs and an energetic vibe. Kids and their parents offer a thumbs-up for the specially designed family zones and the Whistler Kids Snow School, plus a tree fort and magic castle. After a day on the mountain, stroll the pedestrian village in search of the perfect memento in one of more than 200 shops. If there is room for more adventure, consider a spin on the free outdoor skating rink, swish down the incline at the tube park or take in the Fire and Ice show. Stay in family-friendly hotels or condos, many of which are ski-in/ski-out, in one of three mountain bases. The resort is part of the Epic Pass network

MORE INFO whistlerblackcomb.com

Keystone, Colorado

Spend your snowy getaway on the slopes of this Rocky Mountain resort you will find tucked away in the White River National Forest. Keystone Resort, the largest ski area in Summit County, offers 3,000 acres of easy-to-expert terrain on three impressive peaks. Look forward to something for everyone in your clan, from gentle groomers, rolling cruisers and steep bumps to gladed terrain and powder-filled bowls. There's a friendly reception center and up-front parking reserved for families, and there are scores of red wagons spread throughout the property to ease the transport of little ones plus gear. Keystone, a Vail Resort and part of the Epic Pass program, is committed to making mountain time memorable for you and your clan. The Kidtopia program offers a range of activities for children including giant snow forts, arts and crafts, ice-skating and scavenger hunts, as well as culinary and musical events. Ask about private ski and boarding lessons for family groups. Kids 12 and younger ski free, with lodging booked through Keystone.

MORE INFO keystoneresort.com

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Head to this capital city in the Sangre de Cristo mountains for a family-friendly adventure. Located just 16 miles from Santa Fe and rising to 12,062 feet, it’s a 660-acre world-class area offering terrain for the most adventuresome powder hounds as well as groomers, glade skiing and a freestyle terrain park. When not on the slopes immerse yourselves in history, culture, a serious art scene and exceptional cuisine. There is a wide range of options that will engage the kids, including hands-on classes, scavenger hunts, museums, climbing walls and chocolate factory tours.

MORE INFO santafe.com; santafe.org