It's that time of year again when I spend hours online looking for an affordable place to bring the kids skiing. Trust me, it's not easy. And I've been tempted to give up on the idea altogether, but these deals look seriously promising.
Start Here
Make sure to check out LIftopia.com first. The discount site partners with more than 250 resorts worldwide. Just this morning I found savings of up to 50% at Magic Mountain, in Vermont, and 35% in Park City, Utah for a four day trip at the end of January. Ski.com is another winner and offers deals on airlines, lodging, and even lift tickets around the globe.
Keystone, Colorado
This is a hard one to believe, but kids age 12 and under can ski and snowboard free all day, every day at Keystone, with no blackout dates. All you have to do is stay a minimum of two nights at one of the mountain's various accommodations, which range from luxe chalets to simple condos.
Breckenridge, Colorado
There are quite a few buy-2-nights-get-the-third-one-free deals, but I’m partial to Breck for a Buck, which offers a savings of up to 25%. When you book 2, 3, 4, or 5 days of lodging and lift tickets, you’ll get the next day free. The only downer? Blackout dates apply and available dates are off-peak.
Canyons, Utah (pictured)
If your kids like to do mountain activities besides skiing, check out the Family Adventure Package at the Canyons. Depending on your room type, you can get up to $200 a night (the lowest being $50) towards snowshoeing, sleigh rides, dogsledding, zip line tours, and more.
Sugarbush, Vermont
East coast skiing has been a little icey this year, but I'm hoping things will turn around. If your kids are just starting out on the slopes, check out Sugarbush’s First Timer To Lifetimer program. Sign them up for a three-lesson package ($225), and they’ll get to ski free for the rest of the season.
Clara Sedlak is a mother of two and Special Projects Editor at Travel + Leisure. Follow her on Twitter at @csedlak1.
