Christmas ski trip with the 3 kids
 

Hi skiiers.. We are planning a Christmas ski trip with our three children, ages 16, 12 and 10. They have never skied before. Would love suggestions on unique and wonderful ski resorts in the West with great ski programs for first timer kids. We love special places to stay that are not your standard hotel/motel but unique... Thanks so much for any advice...

Keep in mind your kids have ten times the energy you do and will wear you out. Don't try to keep up.

My vote goes to the Canadian Rockies.

When I was about 15, our parents took us to Sun Valley at Christmas. The Sun Valley Lodge is heavenly -- so much character -- and fun activities at Christmastime (such as the corny ice skating show on the outdoor rink at the Lodge, and the torch parade down the mountain.) It might be easier to stay at a ski in/ski out place such as Snowbird in Utah. It lacks charm, but it is a good place for families. If $$ is no object, how about the Stein Eriksen Lodge at Deer Valley, Utah? The food there is incredible, the instructors are great, and they groom all of the runs. The whole mountain is not that tough -- only 2 or 3 true black diamond runs -- so it's nice for beginners. The snow in Utah and Colorado is so powdery and light -- much easier to ski in than other places. Another great place is Mammoth Mountain in California. That's where I learned to ski. Nice program for kids and great instructors. Have fun!

You had 20+ responses to your earlier post. Just click on you name to find it.

We love Winter Park. It's low key, has a great ski school. Our favorite place to stay is Timber House Lodge; breakfast, afternoon snacks and dinner are included, which makes it very relaxing for mom. They drive you to the hill in the morning and you can ski in or be picked up in the agfternoon.

I've heard good things about Angelfire in New Mexico as far as families and "tamer" slopes go.