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Aspen Family Vacation — Snow, Ski, & Fun

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10 Mar 2023
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Outdoor Activities

Get ready to experience the ultimate family ski vacation in Aspen! This winter wonderland offers endless opportunities for fun and adventure for both kids and adults alike. The natural beauty of Aspen provides the perfect backdrop for your family to explore and play, while the array of children's activities and education programs will keep your little ones entertained and engaged throughout your stay.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of planning the perfect Aspen family ski vacation? Don't worry, we've got you covered. We've compiled a list of resources to ensure that your vacation is not only enjoyable but also stress-free. So buckle up and get ready to create unforgettable memories with your family in Aspen

SKIING WITH THE FAMILY IN ASPEN

With four ski areas encompassing Aspen Snowmass, it’s sure to be a perfect fit for you and your family. The mountains are connected by a free skier bus system enabling the drop-off children at ski school at Buttermilk or Snowmass while parents ski at Aspen or Aspen Highlands. 

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING LESSONS AT BUTTERMILK

Buttermilk is favored as a family destination in Aspen because of its smaller size, open slopes, and generally milder grades. It is well-known for its range of lessons, catering to beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. 

For children, Buttermilk has its newest facility, The Hideout, which is a play-and-learning area that's perfect for kids ages 2 ½ to 6 years old. The Hideout is an ideal space for young children to learn and play while parents hit the slopes. With an integrated approach to learning, children can enjoy fun games and activities while developing their ski skills. The Hideout is staffed by experienced instructors who are passionate about teaching children how to ski in a fun and safe environment.

Buttermilk Mountain also has a range of ski terrain suited to children of all skill levels. Beginners can take advantage of the easy groomed runs while advancing skiers can tackle steeper blue runs. Buttermilk's exceptional terrain parks offer features for all ages and abilities, allowing kids to challenge themselves and learn new tricks.

Learn more about ski and snowboard lessons at Buttermilk

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING LESSONS AT SNOWMASS 

We also recommend Snowmass as a family mountain due to the number of family-friendly options like the Elk Camp Gondola, Fanny Hill, and a variety of skiing terrain. 

There’s also fun to be had at Base Village and The Collective. Beginner and children’s lessons are a Snowmass specialty; there are private lessons featuring a magic carpet area at The Treehouse

ON-MOUNTAIN KID-FRIENDLY FEATURES

Take advantage of Aspen’s kid-friendly features available on each of the four mountains. Look for the painted wooden character cutouts lining kid-friendly tree trails. That way w taking runs with the kids, you won’t miss any extra adventure. 

At Buttermilk, seek out the log tunnel on Devil’s Gut off of Westward Ho, twist and turn on Mr. Bill, or enjoy Larkspur’s World’s Longest Tree Trail. Visit the newly reconstructed Fort Frog, a frontier-themed structure that includes lookout towers, a twisty slide, a rope bridge, a warming hut, and more. 

In Snowmass, don’t pass on the chance to visit the Bat Cave along Hi di Hi Woods and meet miners on Prospectors' Trail off Adams Avenue. You’ll also see some fun creatures beneath you near the “Hot Chocolate Factory” while riding the Village Express.

CHILDCARE IN ASPEN SNOWMASS

Aspen Snowmass is home to two of the best childcare facilities in North America — Buttermilk’s The Hideout and the Treehouse Kids Adventure Center at Snowmass. Kids from 8 months to 4 years of age will explore an interactive environment under the supervision of state-licensed childcare providers and a licensed registered nurse.

Lunch and snacks are provided to children, allowing parents to dine on their own without having to break for feedings.

WINTER FAMILY FUN IN ASPEN

Do you need a break from skiing, but still crave adventure and exploration? A family ski vacation in Aspen can include so much more than hitting run after run. 

Here are some of our favorite family activities in Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley. 

ICE SKATING TOGETHER

Rent ice skates and take some turns around the Silver Circle Ice Rink near CP Burger in downtown Aspen. Grab a milkshake, burger, and fries, too! Go indoors to skate at Lewis Ice Arena in Aspen. Or spin around the ice at Snowmass Town Park or at the Collective in Snowmass’ Base Village.

WATER SLIDE AND LAZY RIVER 

If you need to get warm and relax for a while, stop by the Aspen Recreation Center (known to locals as the ARC) and let the kids enjoy the twisty water slide, lazy river, and multiple interactive pool features. 

Parents can float nearby, watch from the hot tub, or take turns in the sauna and steam room while the littles enjoy the pool.

TUBING AND SLEDDING

Take the family tubing at Snowmass’ Elk Camp Meadows, or visit one of the many local sledding hills. You’ll find the most popular hill at the ARC — the Whoa Nelly Sledding Hill

TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY 

Get your tickets for the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster at Snowmass, and wind through the trees at high speed on an elevated track. It’s a delightful way to break up a day on the slopes and make sure everyone’s smiling. 

THE COLLECTIVE

Besides ice skating, The Collective in Snowmass offers a number of indoor activities, located in a building adjacent to the ice rink in Base Village. The Limelight Snowmass boasts a five-story, glass-enclosed climbing wall that allows self-belay. 

The whole family can enjoy taking photos in the Selfie Den, and you’ll also find a game room, which includes a colorful ping pong attraction.

PLAN YOUR ASPEN FAMILY SKI VACATION

One of the biggest choices to make when planning your family ski vacation is where to stay in Aspen. Conveniently located downtown, the Aspen Square, is just steps away from the gondola. 

Our condominium hotel features are both luxurious and practical for a family vacation with fully-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, daily housekeeping, and more. 

When you are finished with a day on the slopes, enjoy our outdoor pool and hot tub. These amenities are heated and open year-round.

Contact the concierge at Aspen Square to plan your next family vacation in Aspen. Call (970) 925-1000 and let us assist you!