3 Ski Resorts the Experts Book While Everyone Else Goes to Aspen
Ski Resort
Planning a family ski trip is one of the best ways to make winter memories together—fresh mountain air, cozy fires, hot chocolate breaks, and plenty of time on the slopes. The key to a stress-free ski vacation? Choosing the right resort with family-friendly terrain, reliable ski schools, and convenient lodging. Below are five of the best family ski resorts, along with curated recommendations on where to stay for the ultimate winter escape.
1. Park City Mountain Resort - Utah
As one of the largest ski areas in the United States, Park City offers miles of beginner-friendly trails, outstanding ski schools, and some of the best intermediate skiing around. Its charming downtown makes off-the-slopes time just as fun.
Recommended Places to Stay
Montage Deer Valley — A luxury option offering excellent kids’ programs and slope-side daycare.
Grace Peak Perks:
Upgrade at time of booking for guest rooms and suites, subject to availability. Upgrade on arrival for residences, subject to availability.
Daily breakfast credit of $90 per bedroom, served in the restaurant and via in-room dining (credit is non-cumulative)
$100 USD equivalent Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay, applicable towards food & beverage, spa services, or activities and rentals in Compass Sports. (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early check-in / Late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Pendry Park City — In heart of Canyons Village - just steps from the slopes of Park City Resort and Canyons Village entertainment.
Grace Peak Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Hyatt Centric Park City — Condo-style suites with kitchens, perfect for longer stays.Grace Peak Perks:
Welcome amenity provided upon arrival.
Daily complimentary full breakfast at a hotel restaurant for up to two guests.
Property credit (value varies by property).
Priority for room upgrade (response within 24 hours of booking, subject to forecasted occupancy).
Early check-in/late check-out/connecting rooms (response within 24 hours of request, subject to forecasted occupancy).
2. Whistler Blackcomb — British Columbia, Canada
Whistler is a bucket-list ski destination for many families thanks to its massive terrain, world-class ski school, and lively pedestrian village. There’s something for everyone here, from gentle greens to challenging alpine bowls.
Recommended Places to Stay
Nestled at the base of Whistler Mountain, Fairmont Chateau Whistler is renowned ski destination. This luxury hotel offers ski-in, ski-out access.
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom, served in the restaurant
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Breathe in the fresh mountain air at The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, a charming luxury hotel tucked away in the Coast Mountains. Wander around Whistler and explore the Olympic Village. The hotel offers upscale amenities that make any visit to Whistler extra special.
Welcome amenity
Complimentary breakfast daily for two guests per room
Early check-in and late check-out (when available)
Complimentary upgrade (if available at check-in)
$100 hotel credit
The Four Seasons Resort Whistler is a shore walk to Blackcomb Mountain*s ski lefts or a short shuttle ride to Whistler Mountain and Whistler Village - 15min walk to the main village and 3min walk to the upper village. The resort offers a full-service spa, fitness center, an outdoor pool and three heated whirlpools. Guest can enjoy an array of winters sports as well as warm-weather outdoor adventures including golf at 3 nearby champion courses. The Four Seasons Ski Concierge offers complete winter sports support. The Four Seasons Whistler combines a spectacular setting with inuitive service that will make every stay memorable.
Daily breakfast for 2
100USD hotel credit for rooms or 200USD for suites & private retreats
Room upgrade to next category (subject to availability)
Early check-in, late check-out (subject to availability)
3. Smugglers’ Notch — Vermont
Often ranked the #1 family ski resort in the East, Smugglers’ Notch is beloved for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and top-notch kids’ programs. It’s designed with families in mind, offering ski lessons, tubing, game rooms, and more.
Recommended Places to Stay
Smugglers’ Notch Resort Condos
The most convenient option, with kitchens and door-to-door shuttle service.
Topnotch Resort (nearby in Stowe)
A luxury alternative with a spa and indoor pool, ideal for families in the majestic mountainside destination in Stowe Vermont. It blends the gracious charm of a ski lodge with the luxurious amenities of a world-class resort. This 120 acre resort offers endless activities in this quintessential New England destination.
Finding a hidden gem ski resort is one thing. Getting there with the right chalet, the best ski-in ski-out access, a private instructor lined up, and dinner reservations at the mountain restaurant everyone's talking about? That's where I come in.
As a luxury travel advisor, I've spent years learning the resorts that don't make the front page of travel magazines — and building the relationships that get my clients access to the experiences that make a ski trip truly unforgettable. The private guides. The properties that sell out six months before the season opens. The transfers that make the whole journey feel seamless from the moment you land.
Whether you're planning a romantic couples escape, a family ski week, or a group trip with friends who take their powder seriously, I'll handle every detail so you arrive ready to ski — not stressed from planning.
The best ski seasons book up faster than most people realize. If you have a trip in mind for this winter or next, now is the time to start.