Top Ikon Pass Destinations for Families
When it comes to family-friendly destinations, the Ikon Pass stands out with several exceptional options. Aspen Snowmass in Colorado is renowned for its family-oriented amenities, including dedicated kids’ ski areas and diverse off-slope activities. Aspen Snowmass comprises four mountains—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—each catering to different skill levels and interests. Buttermilk is particularly famous for its beginner-friendly slopes and the Hideout Children’s Center, making it an ideal choice for families with young children. With an elevation of 9,900 feet (3,018 meters), Buttermilk ensures ample snowfall and excellent skiing conditions throughout the season.
Aspen Snowmass
– Name: Aspen Snowmass
– Address: 100 Elbert Lane, Snowmass Village, CO 81615
– Customer Service Phone: +1 970-923-1227
– Public Email: info@aspensnowmass.com
– Official Website: Aspen Snowmass
Mammoth Mountain in California offers a fantastic family experience with its extensive beginner terrain and family-friendly events. Spanning over 3,500 acres (1,416 hectares) of skiable terrain, Mammoth Mountain is famous for its long season, often staying open well into June. This allows families ample time to plan their visit. The resort features a range of activities such as snow tubing, scenic gondola rides, and the Woolly’s Adventure Summit, which includes a tubing park and snow play area.
Mammoth Mountain
– Name: Mammoth Mountain
– Address: 10001 Minaret Road, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
– Customer Service Phone: +1 800-626-6684
– Public Email: info@mammothresorts.com
– Official Website: Mammoth Mountain
Steamboat Resort in Colorado is another family favorite, known for its western hospitality and family-friendly atmosphere. Steamboat offers a Kids Ski Free program, where children 12 and under can ski for free with a parent or grandparent. The resort also features the Outlaw Mountain Coaster, the longest coaster in North America, stretching over 6,280 feet (1,914 meters) and providing fun for the whole family.
Steamboat Resort
– Name: Steamboat Resort
– Address: 2305 Mount Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
– Customer Service Phone: +1 970-879-6111
– Public Email: info@steamboat.com
– Official Website: Steamboat Resort
Winter Park Resort in Colorado is perfect for families with beginner skiers. It boasts a variety of gentle slopes ideal for learning, along with the Sorensen Park beginner area and the Discovery Park, which are dedicated to beginners and children. Winter Park also offers a range of family-friendly events throughout the season, including s’mores nights and fireworks displays.
Winter Park Resort
– Name: Winter Park Resort
– Address: 85 Parsenn Road, Winter Park, CO 80482
– Customer Service Phone: +1 970-726-5514
– Public Email: guestservices@winterparkresort.com
– Official Website: Winter Park Resort
Big Bear Mountain Resort in California is another great choice for families. Located in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear offers a range of activities beyond skiing, such as snowshoeing, zip-lining, and alpine slides. The resort’s Grizzly Ridge Tube Park is a hit with kids, offering multiple lanes of high-speed tubing fun.
Big Bear Mountain Resort
– Name: Big Bear Mountain Resort
– Address: 880 Summit Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
– Customer Service Phone: +1 844-462-2327
– Public Email: info@bigbearmountainresort.com
– Official Website: Big Bear Mountain Resort
Kid-Friendly Activities at Ikon Pass Resorts
Many Ikon Pass resorts offer kid-friendly activities beyond skiing and snowboarding. Steamboat Resort in Colorado features the famous Steamboat Springs Hot Springs, where families can relax and unwind after a day on the slopes. The resort also offers horse-drawn sleigh rides and a Family Fun Night with games, face painting, and a glow stick parade.
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows in California is known for its adventure center, which includes tubing, mini snowmobiles, and an indoor climbing wall. The resort also offers a range of family-friendly dining options, including the famous Wildflour Baking Company, renowned for its delicious cookies and baked goods.
Deer Valley Resort in Utah offers luxurious amenities and a range of activities for families. The resort’s Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater hosts a series of concerts and events throughout the winter, providing entertainment for all ages. Deer Valley also offers complimentary ski storage and a ski valet service, making it easy for families to manage their equipment.
Copper Mountain in Colorado features the Critterland play area, designed specifically for young children. The area includes tubing lanes, a snow maze, and a mini snowcat ride, providing hours of entertainment for little ones. Copper Mountain also offers free snowshoe tours and a Woodward Copper indoor training facility with trampolines and foam pits.
Steamboat Springs Hot Springs
– Name: Old Town Hot Springs
– Address: 136 Lincoln Ave, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
– Customer Service Phone: +1 970-879-1828
– Public Email: info@oldtownhotsprings.org
– Official Website: Old Town Hot Springs
Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
– Name: Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
– Address: 1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146
– Customer Service Phone: +1 800-403-0206
– Public Email: info@squawalpine.com
– Official Website: Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows
Deer Valley Resort
– Name: Deer Valley Resort
– Address: 2250 Deer Valley Drive S, Park City, UT 84060
– Customer Service Phone: +1 435-649-1000
– Public Email: info@deervalley.com
– Official Website: Deer Valley Resort
Copper Mountain
– Name: Copper Mountain Resort
– Address: 209 Ten Mile Circle, Copper Mountain, CO 80443
– Customer Service Phone: +1 866-841-2481
– Public Email: info@coppercolorado.com
– Official Website: Copper Mountain
Diverse Activities at Ikon Pass Resorts
Ikon Pass resorts provide a wide range of activities for all ages, ensuring that every family member finds something to enjoy. Snowshoeing is a popular activity at many resorts, offering a peaceful way to explore the winter landscape. Aspen Snowmass in Colorado offers guided snowshoe tours that take you through scenic trails with stunning mountain views. These tours are suitable for all ages and provide an excellent opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Ice skating is another fun activity available at several Ikon Pass destinations. Mammoth Mountain in California has an outdoor ice rink where families can enjoy skating under the stars. The rink offers skate rentals and lessons, making it accessible for beginners. Similarly, Winter Park Resort in Colorado features an outdoor ice rink in the heart of its village, providing a picturesque setting for family skating.
Dog sledding is a unique and thrilling experience offered at select Ikon Pass resorts. Steamboat Resort in Colorado offers dog sledding tours that take you through the scenic Yampa Valley, providing a memorable adventure for the entire family. These tours are led by experienced mushers and their team of enthusiastic sled dogs, making for an unforgettable experience.
Deer Valley Resort in Utah is known for its luxurious spa services, offering parents a chance to relax and rejuvenate. The resort’s Stein Eriksen Lodge features a world-class spa with a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments. For a unique experience, try the alpine hot stone massage, which uses heated stones to melt away tension and stress.
Steamboat
Resort
– Name: Steamboat Resort
– Address: 2305 Mount Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
– Customer Service Phone: +1 970-879-6111
– Public Email: info@steamboat.com
– Official Website: Steamboat Resort
Dining Options at Ikon Pass Resorts
Dining options are plentiful at Ikon Pass resorts, catering to all tastes and preferences. Tremblant in Quebec offers a charming village with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining. The resort’s La Forge Bistro-Bar & Grill is a popular spot, known for its delicious burgers and stunning views of the mountain. For a more upscale dining experience, visit Le Shack, which offers a range of gourmet dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Aspen Snowmass in Colorado features a variety of dining options, including the popular Elk Camp Restaurant. Located mid-mountain, Elk Camp offers a range of fresh, locally sourced dishes, along with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The restaurant also hosts Ullr Nights, a family-friendly event with live music, bonfires, and snow tubing.
Mammoth Mountain in California offers a range of dining experiences, from quick bites to gourmet meals. The resort’s Mountainside Bar & Grill is a great spot for families, offering a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring American classics. For a unique dining experience, visit Parallax, an on-mountain restaurant accessible only by snowcat, offering a gourmet dining experience with panoramic views.
Tremblant
– Name: Tremblant Resort
– Address: 1000 Chemin des Voyageurs, Mont-Tremblant, QC J8E 1T1, Canada
– Customer Service Phone: +1 888-738-1777
– Public Email: info@tremblant.ca
– Official Website: Tremblant Resort
Best Time to Visit Ikon Pass Destinations
The best time to visit Ikon Pass destinations depends on your family’s preferences and priorities. For optimal snow conditions, mid-winter months like January and February are ideal. During this time, the snow is typically at its best, providing excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. However, these months can also be more crowded, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
If you prefer fewer crowds and milder weather, consider visiting in early December or late March. Early December offers the excitement of the start of the ski season, with fresh snow and festive holiday decorations. Late March, on the other hand, often brings warmer temperatures and longer days, making it an ideal time for families to enjoy spring skiing and other outdoor activities.
For families looking to experience the unique events and festivals hosted by Ikon Pass resorts, planning your visit around these special occasions can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. Steamboat Resort in Colorado hosts the annual Winter Carnival in February, featuring parades, fireworks, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Similarly, Aspen Snowmass in Colorado hosts the Bud Light Spring Jam in March, a multi-week event with concerts, competitions, and on-mountain parties.
Tips for Saving Money on Ikon Pass Trips
Saving money on Ikon Pass trips can be achieved through various strategies. One of the most effective ways to reduce costs is by booking accommodations early. Many resorts offer early booking discounts, allowing you to secure better rates and availability. Additionally, consider traveling during off-peak times, such as midweek or non-holiday periods, to benefit from lower prices on lodging and lift tickets.
Another way to save is by taking advantage of package deals that include lift tickets, lodging, and other amenities. Mammoth Mountain in California frequently offers family packages that bundle lift tickets with lodging and dining credits, providing significant savings. Similarly, Winter Park Resort in Colorado offers packages that include lift tickets, rentals, and even lessons, making it easier to plan your trip and stay within budget.
Utilizing the Ikon Pass itself can also help you save money. The pass provides access to multiple resorts, allowing you to explore different destinations without purchasing additional lift tickets. For families planning multiple ski trips throughout the season, the Ikon Pass offers excellent value and flexibility.
Planning a Multi-Destination Trip with the Ikon Pass
Planning a multi-destination trip with the Ikon Pass is a great way to explore different resorts and experience a variety of terrains and activities. To make the most of your trip, choose resorts that are within close proximity to each other. For example, you can combine a visit to Aspen Snowmass and Steamboat Resort in Colorado, as they are relatively close and offer diverse experiences.
Another excellent combination is Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows and Mammoth Mountain in California. Both resorts are located in the Sierra Nevada mountains and offer a range of activities for families. By planning your trip to include multiple destinations, you can maximize your Ikon Pass and create a memorable adventure for the whole family.
When planning a multi-destination trip, consider the logistics of transportation and accommodations. Renting a car can provide flexibility and convenience, allowing you to explore the surrounding areas and travel between resorts at your own pace. Additionally, many resorts offer shuttle services and transportation options, making it easy to get around without a car.
Best Accommodations at Ikon Pass Resorts
The best accommodations at Ikon Pass resorts vary depending on your family’s preferences and needs. For a luxurious and convenient stay, consider ski-in/ski-out lodges that provide direct access to the slopes. Deer Valley Resort in Utah offers several ski-in/ski-out options, including the Stein Eriksen Lodge and the St. Regis Deer Valley, both
known for their upscale amenities and exceptional service.
For families looking for more space and flexibility, vacation rentals and condos are a great option. Aspen Snowmass in Colorado offers a range of rental properties, from cozy condos to spacious homes, providing the comfort and convenience of a home-away-from-home. Many rental properties also offer amenities such as kitchens, laundry facilities, and private hot tubs, making them ideal for families.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations, consider staying in nearby towns or villages. Mammoth Lakes, California offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, all within a short drive of Mammoth Mountain. Staying off-site can often provide significant savings, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to activities and experiences.
Mammoth Lakes
– Name: Mammoth Lakes Tourism
– Address: 2520 Main St, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
– Customer Service Phone: +1 800-845-7922
– Public Email: info@visitmammoth.com
– Official Website: Mammoth Lakes
Maximizing Your Ikon Pass Experience
To maximize your Ikon Pass experience, it’s essential to plan your visits around the included resort access and special events. Utilize the Ikon Pass app to stay informed about real-time updates on lift status, weather conditions, and event schedules. The app also provides information on dining options, resort maps, and other useful resources to help you make the most of your trip.
Take advantage of the passholder discounts on dining, rentals, and lessons. Many resorts offer special deals for Ikon Pass holders, such as discounted lift tickets for friends and family, dining discounts, and reduced rates on equipment rentals and ski lessons. These discounts can add up quickly, providing significant savings throughout your trip.
Special Deals and Discounts
Ikon Pass often offers early bird discounts and special promotions for passholders. Keep an eye on their website and subscribe to their newsletter for the latest deals. Additionally, some resorts provide discounts on activities and dining for Ikon Pass holders. For example, Steamboat Resort in Colorado offers passholders discounts on snowmobile tours, horseback riding, and other winter activities.
Many Ikon Pass resorts also participate in loyalty programs and reward schemes, allowing you to earn points and benefits with each visit. These programs often include perks such as free nights, complimentary upgrades, and exclusive access to events and experiences. Be sure to enroll in these programs to maximize your benefits and enhance your overall experience.
Additional Amenities at Ikon Pass Resorts
When choosing an Ikon Pass resort, look for additional amenities that can enhance your family’s experience. Ski schools and lessons are essential for families with beginners, providing professional instruction and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the slopes. Aspen Snowmass in Colorado offers a renowned ski school with programs for all ages and skill levels, including private and group lessons.
Rental shops and equipment services are also crucial, providing convenient access to high-quality gear and ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure. Many resorts offer on-site rental shops with a wide range of equipment, including skis, snowboards, and safety gear. Mammoth Mountain in California features multiple rental locations throughout the resort, making it easy to find the right equipment for your needs.
On-site childcare services can be a game-changer for families with young children. These services allow parents to enjoy some time on the slopes or at the spa while knowing their children are in good hands. Deer Valley Resort in Utah offers a licensed childcare center with a range of activities and programs for children, providing peace of mind for parents and fun for kids.
FAQs
What are the best activities for kids at Ikon Pass resorts?
Many Ikon Pass resorts offer a variety of kid-friendly activities beyond skiing and snowboarding, such as snow tubing, ice skating, and adventure centers with mini snowmobiles and indoor climbing walls.
How can I save money on Ikon Pass trips?
Booking accommodations early, traveling during off-peak times, and taking advantage of package deals that include lift tickets, lodging, and other amenities can help you save money on Ikon Pass trips.
What is the best time to visit Ikon Pass destinations?
The best time to visit Ikon Pass destinations depends on your family’s preferences. For optimal snow conditions, visit in January or February. For fewer crowds and milder weather, consider early December or late March.
What are some family-friendly accommodations at Ikon Pass resorts?
Family-friendly accommodations at Ikon Pass resorts include ski-in/ski-out lodges, vacation rentals, and condos. Resorts like Deer Valley in Utah and Aspen Snowmass in Colorado offer a range of options to suit different needs and budgets.
How can I make the most of my Ikon Pass?
To maximize your Ikon Pass, plan your visits around the included resort access and special events. Utilize the Ikon Pass app for real-time updates and take advantage of passholder discounts on dining, rentals, and lessons.
Are there any special deals for Ikon Pass holders?
Ikon Pass often offers early bird discounts and special promotions for passholders. Many resorts also provide discounts on activities and dining for Ikon Pass holders, and participate in loyalty programs with additional perks.
By carefully planning your trip and taking advantage of all the Ikon Pass has to offer, you can create unforgettable family memories at some of the best winter destinations. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying the après-ski activities, the Ikon Pass opens up a world of adventure and fun for the whole family.
