As a family from Ohio, we know that planning family ski trips with kids means finding resorts that are accessible, kid-friendly, and fun for all ages. From quick weekend getaways to full week-long ski vacations, these destinations offer the best slopes, ski schools, and off-mountain activities for memorable winter adventures.
Best Ski Weekend Trips (2–3 Nights)
Great for quick road trips and first-time family ski getaways.
Holiday Valley, New York
⏱️ Best for: Ski Weekend
Holiday Valley is a favorite for families thanks to manageable slopes, strong ski lessons, and a welcoming ski-town feel.
👉 Read our Holiday Valley ski guide
Peek’n Peak, New York
⏱️ Best for: Best for long day trip or Ski Weekend
Peek’n Peak is ideal for beginner skiers and families wanting a relaxed ski weekend without long travel days.
👉 Read our Peek’n Peak ski guide
Best 4–5 Night Ski Trips
Perfect for families who want more mountain time without committing to a full week.
Mount Snow, Vermont
⏱️ Best for: 4–5 Night Ski Trip
Mount Snow offers a great mix of terrain, strong ski programs, and convenient lodging, making it ideal for a mid-length family ski vacation.
👉 Read our Mount Snow ski guide
Snowshoe Mountain, West Virginia
⏱️ Best for: 4–5 Night Ski Trip
Snowshoe offers the most vertical in the region, a true mountain feel, and plenty to do beyond skiing—perfect for a longer family stay.
👉 Read our Snowshoe Mountain ski guide
Best Week-Long Ski Trips (5–7 Nights)
Best for families planning a true ski vacation with time to explore and recharge.
Okemo Mountain, Vermont
⏱️ Best for: 5–7 Night Ski Trip
Okemo’s family-friendly terrain, excellent ski school, and village-style base make it ideal for longer stays with kids.
👉 Read our Okemo ski guide
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
⏱️ Best for: 5–7 Night Ski Trip
Steamboat’s wide-open runs, top-notch ski school, and relaxed western vibe make it a standout for longer ski vacations.
👉 Read our Steamboat Springs ski guide
Park City, Utah
⏱️ Best for: 5–7 Night Ski Trip
With massive terrain, easy access, and a lively town, Park City works well for families planning a full ski week.
👉 Read our Park City ski guide
Stowe, Vermont
⏱️ Best for: 5–7 Night Ski Trip
Stowe combines classic New England skiing with scenic charm and great off-mountain activities for longer stays.
👉 Read our Stowe ski guide
FAQ: Family Ski Trips With Kids
Q: What are the best ski trips for kids from Ohio?
A: For Ohio families, resorts that are accessible within a reasonable drive or flight with easy access from airport work best. Snowshoe (WV) and Mount Snow (VT) are great for mid-length trips, while Okemo (VT), Steamboat Springs (CO), and Park City (UT) are perfect for week-long family ski vacations.
Q: Is a weekend ski trip worth it for kids?
A: Absolutely! Weekend ski trips are ideal for beginner skiers or families wanting a short getaway. Resorts like Holiday Valley, Peek’n Peak, and Mount Snow offer manageable slopes, ski lessons, and convenient lodging for a fun 2–3 night adventure.
Q: When is the best time to plan family ski trips?
A: January through early March typically offers the best snow conditions. Avoid holiday weeks and try to ski mid week if possible to enjoy smaller crowds and more affordable lodging options.
Q: How long should a family ski trip be?
A: It depends on your family and travel distance: 2–3 nights works well for weekend getaways, 4–5 nights for mid-length trips like Snowshoe or Mount Snow, and 5–7 nights for full ski vacations at resorts like Okemo, Steamboat Springs, Park City, or Stowe.
Q: Do kids need ski lessons?
A: While not required, ski lessons are highly recommended, especially for beginners. Most family-friendly resorts offer excellent ski school programs and group lessons designed for kids of all ages and abilities.
Q: Do we need to stay slopeside?
A: Staying on or near the slopes is convenient but not required. Many resorts offer shuttle service or lodging within a few minutes of the mountain, making it easy for families to access lifts, rentals, and ski school. Sometimes, depending on the ski school location, its actually easier to be on the shuttle route or to drive to the resort.
About Us
We’re a Cleveland-based family sharing firsthand travel experiences and family-friendly destinations across the U.S. Our guides focus on trips that realistically work for families — from weekend road trips close to home to longer 4–7 night adventure, mountain, beach, and ski vacations. Every destination we feature is based on places we’ve personally visited, with practical tips to help families plan trips they’ll truly enjoy together.
