5 Vermont Ski Resorts for Families
THE ULTIMATE WINTER FAMILY VACATION
By Nicole Feliciano
Vermont’s 20 ski areas may share snowy peaks and postcard-worthy villages, but each offers a distinct family experience. These five resorts showcase the many ways to experience a Vermont winter together. Some cater to thrill-seeking kids who never seem to run out of energy, while others invite families to slow down and savor Vermont’s small towns.
Jay Peak
Tucked just five miles from the Canadian border, Jay Peak is known for receiving more natural snowfall than any other resort in the east. A virtual snow globe, Jay offers skiers a challenge and a chance to go big. You won’t find candy cabins or posh gondolas, but you’ll find terrain that lights kids’ imaginations on fire and a ski school that sticks. Home to Vermont’s only indoor water park, the Pump House, Jay Peak has a well-earned reputation for fun. In addition to the slides, wave pool and lazy river, the resort also has a climbing center, cinema, and ice arena. With all these ways to play, it’s easy to see why families return year after year.
SKI + RIDE
Jay Peak receives a seasonal average of 390 inches, making it one of the snowiest places in Vermont. While no one can guarantee a powder day, with these eye-popping snow totals, your family has pretty good odds of experiencing a powder day here. With 81 trails, 100 acres of glades, and 2,153 feet of vertical, Jay offers plenty of opportunities for families to grow their skills. Here’s the thing: falling in powder is a lot more fun than sliding on ice.
The resort’s terrain-based learning program introduces beginners to skiing through playful features, gentle terrain, and intentionally designed progression zones. Lessons begin indoors on a carpeted slope before moving to surface lifts, beginner chairs, and eventually the larger mountain. At the end of the day, parents receive a progress report detailing what their child learned and skied, a small touch that reflects Jay’s commitment to developing lifelong skiers.
WHERE TO STAY
Jay Peak’s remote location is part of its charm. With heavy and frequent snowfalls, many families book rooms right at the mountain and leave the car parked for the duration of their stay. The resort’s network of pedestrian walkways, tunnels, and complimentary shuttles makes it easy to move between the mountain’s two base areas without navigating the snowy roads.
Families looking for maximum convenience might book Hotel Jay, which offers direct access to the Pump House Indoor Waterpark. For a more traditional slopeside experience, Tram Haus Lodge sits at the heart of Tramside and places guests steps from the lifts, restaurants, and Taiga Spa.
Travelers looking for value can explore the Stateside Hotel and Condominiums, located near ski school and the Mountain Kids Adventure Center. Spacious condos and vacation rentals are also plentiful, making Jay a strong choice for multigenerational trips and larger family gatherings. Wherever you stay, the goal is the same: park the car, settle in.
Things to Do
Jay Peak may be known for its legendary snowfall, but it also offers one of the most impressive collections of off-slope activities in the east. The centerpiece is the Pump House Indoor Waterpark, a year-round attraction featuring waterslides, a lazy river, a surfing simulator, and indoor-outdoor hot tubs. It’s the perfect antidote to tired ski legs or a windy day when the mountain isn’t cooperating.
Families can also spend time at the Ice Haus skating arena, tackle climbing challenges at Clips & Reels, catch a movie, or revisit childhood favorites in the arcade. For those who prefer quieter adventures, the resort’s Nordic Center offers miles of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails through the snowy woods.
FOOD & SHOPPING
Jay Peak’s dining scene delivers exactly what most families are craving: warm, satisfying comfort food. At Tramside, Miso Hungry serves ramen and rice bowls made with Vermont-sourced ingredients, while The Foundry offers cozy sit-down dining with favorites like grilled cheese and tomato soup. Over at Stateside, Howie’s delivers classic diner fare.
For quick breakfasts, snacks, and grocery essentials, the resort’s Provisions Store stocks everything from coffee and pastries to pasta.
Shopping is limited, but that’s part of Jay’s appeal. The on-mountain shops carry the essentials, from forgotten mittens to replacement goggles, ensuring families can stay focused on the adventures that brought them north in the first place.
Bolton Valley
Family-owned since opening in 1966, Bolton Valley is the kind of mountain that gets kids outside and keeps them there. Perched at Vermont’s highest base elevation (2,100 feet), the resort is a favorite of local families and generations of Burlington-area students who have learned to ski here. A stay at Bolton Valley will leave your family with stronger ski skills, but more importantly, a deeper love of winter and the woods.
SKI + RIDE
The DesLauriers family has been part of Bolton Valley since the mountain opened, and that family-run spirit still shapes the experience today. This isn’t a business; it’s a belief system.
For families, the lift-served mountain offers plenty to explore, with 300 skiable acres, 71 trails, six lifts, and 1,704 feet of vertical. The terrain is easy to navigate and lift tickets are well priced. Start on the Wilderness Lift for mellow glades before moving to the steeper terrain off Vista.
Bolton is also the place to try something new. With extensive night skiing, 100 kilometers of Nordic and backcountry terrain, and a strong partnership with Vermont Adaptive, Bolton makes outdoor adventure feel both expansive and welcoming. Families can even rent a Pulk sled to take the littlest family members out on the cross country trails (the rental comes with a blanket to keep kids warm).
WHERE TO STAY
To fully embrace the Bolton Valley experience, stay slopeside. The Inn at Bolton Valley sits in the heart of the resort’s small ski village, making it easy to walk from breakfast to the lifts without ever moving the car. Accommodations range from traditional hotel rooms to spacious condominium-style units, giving families flexibility for both weekend escapes and longer stays.
Beyond skiing, guests have access to Ralph’s Rec Center, home to an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness center, and a growing lineup of games and activities.
Another option is nearby Waterbury. The historic Old Stagecoach Inn has rooms that can accommodate families of four. Built in 1826, the inn places guests within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and cafés, and under 20 minutes from Bolton’s slopes.
THINGS TO DO
While families can easily spend a weekend enjoying the resort’s lift-served terrain, the real magic lies at the Nordic and Backcountry Center. Bolton is one of the few places in the east where kids can rent backcountry gear, making it an ideal destination for adventurous families.
The resort’s backcountry network spans more than 1,500 acres and connects to the Mount Mansfield State Forest, the largest wilderness area in Vermont’s state forest system. For those curious about uphill travel, private lessons, guided introductory clinics, and group tours are offered throughout the winter, helping newcomers safely learn the basics of backcountry skiing which involves mastering the skill of putting skins on and off your skis or splitboard.
Food & Shopping
The standout is Miso Curry in the Timberline Lodge, where the Japanese Hearty Curry loaded with root vegetables is the perfect antidote to a cold Vermont day. At the main base area, Miso Kome serves warming broths and rice balls near the fire pit. The village store stocks essentials like milk, cereal, frozen pizzas, and snacks for families staying on the mountain.
For more variety, head to nearby Waterbury. For dinner, Prohibition Pig is worth seeking out. Known locally as “Pro Pig,” the restaurant serves some of the best barbecue in Vermont, including duck fat fries and generous family-style platters. Families with younger children should aim for an early dinner (or takeout), as the restaurant gets busy in the evening and tables can be hard to come by. When it’s time for a treat, locals head to Hender’s for pastries, espresso, and famously gooey cinnamon rolls. Just down the road, the iconic (and indoors) Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour is a perfect way to ride out a storm.
Bridgeside Books offers a thoughtfully curated children’s section and books by local authors and it’s conveniently connected to The Bidwell, a new cafe with housemade ice cream.
Middlebury Snowbowl
For families who want to explore an independent mountain that is steeped in college history, map a trip to Middlebury Snowbowl. Middlebury College owns and operates this mountain in a way that makes skiing and riding part of the fabric of the town. Nestled in the Green Mountains, this budget-friendly ski area combines excellent snow with welcoming terrain. Generations of local families (from professors to coaches to maintenance crews) have learned to ski here, and visitors are quickly welcomed into the fold.
SKI + RIDE
Middlebury Snowbowl’s 17 trails and 1,000 feet of vertical offer a mix of beginner-friendly terrain and steep runs with a “just right” spot for every age and ability. Kids ages five and under ski free, and the dedicated Discover Center learning area is positioned away from the main slopes, giving beginners a safe place to build confidence. Meanwhile, older kids can enjoy a little independence exploring the mountain while parents relax knowing the compact layout makes it easy to stay connected. College students might be taking a PE class or serving in volunteer roles on the ski patrol. The mountain is also home to Middlebury College’s celebrated Division I NCAA ski program. It’s not unusual to see elite racers sharing a lift with first-time skiers and snowboarders from their art history class.
At the heart of the resort is the Starr Shelter, where an enormous wood-burning fireplace welcomes skiers in from the cold. Affordable snacks, hot chocolate, and a steady stream of local families create the kind of down-to-earth atmosphere that feels rare in modern skiing.
For families looking to improve their skills, the three-day Holiday Camps are an exceptional value, providing children ages 5 to 12 with three hours of instruction each day. And the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down—night skiing is offered Wednesday through Friday, giving families the chance to experience Vermont’s winter magic under the lights. Visitors staying in town can also take advantage of the free Snow Bowl Shuttle, making it easy to get to the mountain without worrying about winter driving.
Where to Stay
One of the most charming choices is a stay at the Robert Frost Mountain Cabins in nearby Ripton. Just a few miles down the road from the Snowbowl, this family-run spot offers seven rustic cabins, a fully equipped kitchen, and two bedrooms. Lodge guests also have access to a hottub, game room, and sleds.
Families who prefer full-service accommodations may want to stay in downtown Middlebury, about 20 to 25 minutes from the Snowbowl. The Courtyard by Marriott Middlebury sits in the town’s commercial corridor and offers a predictable, budget-friendly stay with familiar amenities and the opportunity to redeem hard-earned hotel points. Travelers looking for a strong sense of Vermont character should consider the historic Middlebury Inn instead. Welcoming guests since 1827, the handsome property overlooks the village green and places visitors within walking distance of locally owned shops, restaurants, and cafés.
THINGS TO DO
A visit to Middlebury Snowbowl isn’t limited to downhill skiing. Just up the road, Rikert Outdoor Center offers more than 30 miles of Nordic skiing and snowshoe trails. Rentals and lessons are available for those new to Nordic skiing or snowshoeing. Before heading out, pick up a nature identification card from the trail center shop and challenge your family to spot local trees, animal tracks, and wildlife along the way.
Just minutes from the Snowbowl, the Robert Frost Interpretive Trail invites families to slow down and explore Vermont’s literary heritage. Open year-round, the accessible boardwalk trail features excerpts from Frost’s poetry along the route. The celebrated poet laureate spent decades living and writing in Vermont, drawing inspiration from the state’s forests, fields, and quiet rural beauty. It’s an easy outing that pairs outdoor exploration with a dose of culture.
Families interested in wildlife might enjoy Otter View Park on the Weybridge-Middlebury town line. The Otter Creek Audubon Society hosts monthly guided walks in partnership with the Middlebury Area Land Trust, and bird lovers can download a free e-book and checklist to help identify and track species spotted during their visit. The park offers a peaceful way to experience Vermont’s natural beauty beyond the ski slopes.
FOOD & SHOPPING
Ripton Country Store stocks everything from live bait to ice cream. Families needing a larger grocery run will find chain grocery stores closer to the Courtyard by Marriott and Middlebury’s commercial corridor.
For a cheerful coffee break, head to Little Seed COFFEE ROASTERS, a sunny café just off Middlebury’s main street. Otter Creek Bakery is a local favorite where everything is made in-house. The signature Otter Paws make an especially sweet post-ski treat.
For dinner, Middlebury offers several easy family wins. American Flatbread brings its beloved Vermont pizza magic to town with wood-fired, handmade pies made from natural and organic ingredients. Order something adventurous, like bacon, apple, and cheddar, or keep it classic with the Medicine Wheel, topped with tomato sauce and cheese. Mad Taco is another strong choice, especially for families craving bold flavors. Their house-smoked meats make the smoked pork belly nachos memorable, while the well-priced kids’ menu keeps younger diners happy.
Smugglers’ Notch
Few resorts have devoted themselves to family skiing as completely as Smugglers’ Notch. Known affectionately as “Smuggs,” this northern Vermont destination has spent decades refining a simple idea: make skiing work for families. The result is a resort where beginner terrain is thoughtfully designed, ski school is exceptional, and activities continue long after the lifts stop spinning. It’s easy to see why generations of families return year after year.
SKI + RIDE
If Smugglers’ Notch has a superpower, it’s teaching people how to ski. From the Sir Henry’s Learning and Fun Park to Burton’s innovative Riglet Park for young snowboarders, every detail feels intentionally designed for families.
Kids progress naturally from magic carpets to chairlifts, eventually graduating to Morse Highlands, one of the best beginner and intermediate learning zones in Vermont. Long, gentle runs give new skiers room to practice without feeling overwhelmed, while attentive instructors and small touches like progress reports at the end of lessons help families stay engaged in the process.
More advanced skiers will find plenty to explore on Sterling and Madonna mountains, where steeper terrain, glades, and classic New England trails provide a satisfying challenge. But what truly sets Smuggs apart isn’t its expert terrain. It’s the way the mountain helps children, parents, and even grandparents build skills together, creating confident skiers.
WHERE TO STAY
Unlike many Vermont ski resorts, Smugglers’ Notch isn’t built around a central hotel. Instead, families stay in condominium-style lodging spread throughout a self-contained village. Once you park your car, you’ll forget about it for the rest of your stay.
Most condos include full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and plenty of space to spread out after a day on the slopes. Larger units on North Hill offer additional privacy and mountain views, while village accommodations place families within easy walking distance of lessons, dining, activities, and the main base area.
What makes Smuggs unique is how seamlessly everything works together. Kids can move between ski school, the FunZone, evening activities, and family events without complicated logistics.
Things to Do
With more than 100 activities offered throughout the season, it’s easy to fill a long weekend, or even a full week, without hearing the phrase, “I’m bored.”
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore 30 kilometers of Nordic skiing and snowshoe trails, stroll the fairy-lit Enchanted Winter Walk, or join one of the resort’s famously creative family activities. One favorite is “I-Did-A-Sled,” where families build homemade sleds from cardboard and duct tape before racing them down the hill. The results are unpredictable and hilarious.
Inside, the FunZone offers climbing walls, laser tag, arcade games, and plenty of opportunities to burn off energy. Evenings tend to be slower paced, with movie nights, trivia contests, campfires, and s’mores bringing families together after a day outdoors.
FOOD & SHOPPING
The dining options at Smuggs are convenient, kid-friendly, and designed to keep everyone fueled for another day on the mountain.
Perk! is the go-to stop for coffee and breakfast, while Ben & Jerry’s is practically a required visit, especially since the waffle cones are made fresh on-site. Around the village you’ll find casual restaurants, cafeterias, and grab-and-go options that make it easy to keep hungry skiers happy without overcomplicating the day.
Many families take advantage of their condo kitchen and cook breakfast or a quick pasta dinner. Plan a grocery stop before arriving to save money and make mornings significantly easier.
If you’re venturing beyond the resort, Full Send serves excellent pizza and Lot Six Brewing is an elevated brew pub that welcomes kids.
Mount Snow
Located in Vermont’s Deerfield Valley region, Mount Snow is one of the first major ski resorts travelers driving from New York, Connecticut, and southern New England encounter, making it a popular choice for weekend getaways and school break adventures. From child care and thoughtfully designed learning terrain to convenient lodging and a lively base area, the resort focuses on the factors that can make family ski trips successful.
From friendly ambassadors at the drop off loop, to building world class terrain parks, Mount Snow offers options for your family to carve out the perfect on-snow experience in a setting that’s as relaxed or exciting as your family desires.
SKI + RIDE
With 86 trails, 20 lifts, and one of the most extensive snowmaking systems in Vermont, Mount Snow excels at helping families maximize their time on snow. The resort’s learning area is tucked away from the main mountain, creating a safe and welcoming environment for beginners.
As skills improve, families can spread out across the mountain’s four distinct base areas. Wide, well-groomed cruisers make Mount Snow especially appealing to intermediate skiers, while the North Face offers steeper terrain for those looking for a challenge. The mountain is also home to Carinthia, one of the premier terrain park systems in the east, with dedicated beginner-to-advanced features spread across 100 acres.
WHERE TO STAY
Families with children in ski school often opt to stay slopeside at the Grand Summit Hotel thanks to the convenient location. Located at the main base area, it allows families to walk to lessons, lifts, and child care without worrying about parking or shuttles. The outdoor heated pool and hot tubs are a welcome reward after a day on the mountain, and many rooms include kitchenettes.
For a more luxurious Vermont experience, the historic Hermitage Inn offers elegant accommodations on 112 acres near Haystack Mountain. Travelers seeking value can explore the Inn at Mount Snow. Located just minutes from the resort and on the Moover shuttle route, the inn offers comfortable rooms, thoughtful amenities like board games, free healthy snacks, and tasty breakfast buffet (included in the room fee), and easy mountain access at a more approachable price point. It hits the sweet spot between convenience and affordability.
THINGS TO DO
Mount Snow understands that not every family member wants to ski from first chair to last. One of the most popular off-slope activities is tubing. Located just behind the Grand Summit Hotel, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
For those looking to explore beyond the resort, Prospect Mountain Nordic Center offers more than 30 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails, along with rentals and lessons for beginners. Families who already have snowshoes can also access the scenic Cross Town Trail system.
Food & Shopping
There are a few strong options just off the access road. Start your day at Coffee Barn Café, a longtime favorite for espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods before heading to the slopes.
For lunch or a casual dinner, Snow Republic serves elevated comfort food in a family-friendly atmosphere complete with board games and a pool table. Families looking for a memorable night out might want to try North Star Pizza, a local institution featuring six bowling lanes, an arcade, and crowd-pleasing pizzas that make everyone happy after a long day on the mountain.
One of Mount Snow’s greatest strengths is its proximity to Wilmington, with its classic wooden storefronts. No trip to Wilmington is complete without a stop at Bartleby’s Books, an independent bookstore known for championing Vermont authors and illustrators. Nearby, River Valley Market is perfect for stocking up on Vermont cheeses, local products, and provisions for families staying in vacation rentals.
About This Partnership
Nicole Feliciano is the founder of The Ski Moms, co-host of the award-winning The Ski Moms Podcast, and a travel writer who spends her winters chasing snow across the globe. Based in Vermont’s Mad River Valley, she helps families discover unforgettable mountain adventures, hidden gems, and the best ways to enjoy life on snow. A late-in-life skier with more enthusiasm than technique, Nicole logged more than 100 days on snow last season and is always planning her next ski trip.