Slopeside Magic for Every Generation
Can you picture it? Rosy-cheeked children bundled up in cozy layers, teenagers who’ve (finally) put down their phones, parents relaxing, grandparents laughing, and the dog quietly snoozing. The whole family all gathered round a fire and chatting about the day’s adventures on the slopes.
The memories made together are truly beyond compare.
Here at The Astrid, we’re convinced that the best way to make lasting memories with children is on a snowy mountainside. From cautious first attempts to ski, to picking them up each time they stumble, to cheering with pride when they complete their first trail – there’s nothing more thrilling than enjoying snowsports with kids.
A family ski vacation will not only have a lifelong impact on your child, but has the potential to create a lasting legacy.
The Enchantment of a Childhood Ski Vacation
The Astrid’s own legacy begins with a bunch of teenagers spending their winter break with a charity-run youth group. This is the setting where a young Myles Sherman fell in love with Steamboat’s slopes for the first time.
At only 16, Myles saved up his own money to join the winter camp and got tickets for the lift as part of the deal. Myles and his friends strapped on their rented skis and had a blast carving the slopes for the very first time.
It was during this incredible experience on the mountain that Myles developed an affinity for Steamboat Springs. Over the years, Myles returned with his children, then grandchildren, before embarking on creating the most luxurious residential community Steamboat has ever seen.
There’s something almost magical about the power of a ski vacation in your youth. We’ve made this detailed guide to help you create the most incredible slopeside memories with your young guests.
Snowsports School
Private snow sports lessons for kids as young as three years old are available at Greenhorn Ranch Learning Center. The friendly instructors will guide your little snow shredder onto beginner-friendly pitches.
Children ages three to six years old can enjoy full-day ski experiences from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. The day includes lunch, plenty of time for snow play, crafts, and group ski lessons.
The center also offers weekly seasonal ski and snowboard programs for kids aged five to 17 years old.
Group lessons for teenagers and adults are available, as you’re never too old to try snowsports for the first time!
Child Friendly Slopes
Steamboat is a premier family friendly ski destination thanks to its range of green runs that are perfect for novice skiers (and aren’t boring for seasoned snow sports enthusiasts!) This resort is the ideal choice for multigenerational snow adventures because its famed Champagne Powder® snow is perfect for learning to ski.
Our favorite green runs for children include:
- Swinger – This quiet run is an ideal place for kids to practice their carve turns because it’s often overlooked by skiers walking to the base area.
- Rough Rider Basin – This is a ski run like nothing you’ve seen before. Encourage your young guests to embrace Steamboat’s ranching town roots as you ski through a mini-town. This area is filled with pretend cowboy saloons, a sheriff’s office, a jail, and a general store! This trail features lots of small jumps for kids to practice on, guaranteeing plenty of giggles.
- Why Not – True to its name, this run is ideal for kids who are feeling spontaneous! Why not take the Gondola up to the top of Mount Werner and ski gently down the trail, stopping to read wildlife signs along the way. Arrive back at base for a quick rest before heading to the next slope.
- Broadway – This unmissable run has small jumps, perfect for young skiers to practice their new moves! The family photo opportunities along this run are unmatched – with incredible views in every direction, you’ll definitely want to bring a camera.
- Lil’ Rodeo – This fantastic snow sports park features entry-level boxes, jumps, and half pipes for your little adrenaline junkies! The kids will leave here feeling like superheroes.
Snow Sports Gear Rentals
Switchback Sports provides rentals of the latest equipment for a variety of winter activities. From skis and poles, snowboards, and boots, your little powder prodigy will be fully decked out and ready to hit the slopes. We’re proud to have an exclusive partnership with the Switchback Sports team who will be kitting out The Astrid’s residents with the freshest gear in our private ski locker room.
Mountainside Action Photography
Immortalize the memory of your vacation with stunning action shots of the whole family shredding the pow! For the very best photography in Steamboat Springs, look no further than Fresh Prints. This team of talented photographers are located at the top of the gondola during ski season, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Private shoots for groups or individuals can be booked in advance.
Après-Ski for the Whole Family
No immersion into ski culture would be complete without introducing your young guests to après-ski. The Range Food & Drink Hall is located in Steamboat Square, and is the perfect place to grab a drink and refuel after many active hours on the slopes.
Four eateries are spread across two floors, with ample indoor and outdoor seating. On the first floor, guests can order using a QR code on their phone, or at one of the easy-to-use kiosks, and then pick up their food at the relevant window. The second floor offers full-service dining, with wait staff taking your order and delivering food to your table.
Family groups are sure to find something everyone will enjoy! Chose from classic pizzas, to flavorsome ramen, mouthwatering sandwiches, and tasty tacos – a childhood favorite!
The Perfect Family Friendly Ski Vacation in Colorado
It’s no wonder that Steamboat Springs is a must-go vacation destination for families. There’s no better place in Colorado for children to start their snow sports journey than on beginner-friendly runs covered with snow so good it’s famous worldwide!
The incredible opportunities for creating multigenerational memories is just one of the reasons that Steamboat sees families returning season after season. Our luxury ski homes at The Astird are built with family and community at the center. We provide a home-away-from-home experience for families like yours so that you can visit Mount Werner’s slopes every winter (and all year-long!)
We’re committed to helping members of The Astrid community create the most incredible memories in Steamboat Springs, which is why our bespoke concierge service starts before you step through our doors.
To join our community, simply provide us with your name and email address. By doing so, you’ll be invited to join our exclusive mailing list. As part of this list you’ll gain access to insider information, behind-the-scenes content, and a highly personalized email experience reserved only for members of The Astrid community.
