• Plan a Colorado family ski vacation.wolfcreek, colorado image by Trav from Fotolia.com
  
  Colorado is well known for its numerous ski resorts and winter activities. If you want to combine your next family vacation with outdoor fun, then consider the family ski vacations that Colorado has to offer. Most ski areas offer age-appropriate lessons as well as activities for the entire family.
  
  

Loveland Ski Area

• Forty-five miles west of Denver, Colorado, you will find Loveland Ski Area. The mountain has an average of 400 inches of snow each year with a summit elevation of 13,010 feet and more than 80 percent of its slopes rated as intermediate or advanced. For children, there is a ski and snowboard school for beginners as well as Polar Explorers for intermediate-level children. If the kids would rather play than ski, you can make use of the licensed child care facility on the premises. Accommodations within a short drive of the slopes include hotels, resorts, chalets, cabins and private homes, with many offering "Ski and Stay" packages.
  
  Loveland Ski Area
  Exit 216 Interstate 70
  Georgetown, CO 80444
  800-736-3SKI
  skiloveland.com
  
  

Steamboat Ski Town, U.S.A.

• In north-central Colorado in the town of Steamboat Springs, you will find Steamboat Ski Town, U.S.A. The mountain is home to 365 snowmaking acres with 165 trails, the longest more than three miles. Specifically designed lessons are available for children starting at age 2, with child care available starting at six months. Ski and snowboarding programs just for teens are also offered, such as the "Desperadoes Ski Week," in which your child can spend the entire week with the same instructor and participants. Lodging options of all types are available nearby, and the town of Steamboat Springs offers free transportation from downtown to the ski area and many points in between.
  
  Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation
  2305 Mt. Werner Circle
  Steamboat, CO 80487
  970-879-6111
  steamboat.com
  
  

Winter Park Resort

• Just over an hour northwest of Denver, Colorado, you will find Winter Park Resort. Winter Park has 143 trails, with 3 percent of those rated expert only. Kids can enjoy the group lessons or multi-week classes starting at age 3. The resort has its own "village," where the family can dine, shop and enjoy activities such as ice skating and snowmobiling. Lodging is available at the resort or at nearby hotels, bed and breakfasts, condominiums or private rental homes. Package deals are frequently offered that combine lodging and lift tickets.
  
  Winter Park Resort
  85 Parsenn Rd.
  Winter Park, Colorado 80482
  970-726-1564
  skiwinterpark.com