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Winter is a great season for fun adventures and weekend getaways with kids. If you’re looking for one of the best winter vacations for outdoorsy families, these snowy destinations are sure to please all ages. Those ready to hit the slopes can consider thrilling destinations like Banff or Park City. Winter is also the perfect time to visit national parks in Utah and Arizona, where the season’s cooler weather makes for ideal hiking conditions. Whether skiing, dog-sledding, or snowshoeing, these kid-friendly winter vacations promise joy and memories that will last a lifetime! Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best winter destinations in Canada and the United States for families.
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Best Winter Vacations with Snow
Playing in the snow is undoubtedly one of the best parts about winter with kids! Winter travels can mean snowboarding in fresh powder, hiking along snowy trails, or learning a new winter sport like snowshoeing or cross-country skiing! Indeed, planning a trip to enjoy the snow a little bit more makes for one of the best winter vacations for families. Keep reading to learn where to go for kid-friendly snowy adventures this winter.
Banff + Lake Louise, Alberta
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies in Banff and Lake Louise with a winter getaway filled with outdoor adventures! From thrilling ski slopes to enchanting horse-drawn sleigh rides, this area offers tons of fun activities for families, making it one of the best winter vacations with snow!
In Banff, start your trip meandering the beautiful downtown area. It is the perfect spot for exploring local shops or sipping hot cocoa in charming cafes. Then, bundle up for a dog sledding experience! Kids will delight in racing across fresh snow and meeting the dogs. Book your experience with Kingmik Dog Sled Tours, or with Snowy Owl Dog Sled Tours if you’re closer to Spray Lakes. Alternatively, you can explore the area by horse-drawn sleigh with Banff Trail Riders at Warner Stables in Banff. Or, Brewster Stables at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Afterward, elevate your adventure with panoramic views from the Banff Gondola.
Then, plan at least one day to explore Banff National Park. Lake Louise offers families a truly unforgettable experience. Together, you can glide across this iconic frozen lake (get rentals at Chateau Mountain Sports)! Then, you can also embrace the thrill of winter sports, like skiing and snow tubing at Lake Louise Ski Resort, against a stunning mountain backdrop. Not to mention many opportunities for hiking and snowshoeing. As one of the best winter family vacations in Canada, you’ll find everything you need here to fill your itineraryÂ
Family-Friendly Hotels in Banff + Lake Louise
Finally, if you’re wondering where to stay with kids in Banff and Lake Louise, we have a few ideas for you. Firstly, we adore Basecamp Suites Banff! Located inside Banff National Park, it offers guests uniquely private accommodations made for adventure! For 10% off all Basecamp properties, use our discount code: Kidswhoexplore.
Outdoor families will also love Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Fairmont Banff Springs, and The Rimrock Resort Hotel. Alternatively, some families may prefer Tunnel Mountain Resort, Hidden Ridge Resort, or Moose Hotel & Suites. With so many great resort options, no wonder this ranks as one of the best winter vacations for families!
Jasper, Alberta
Next on our list of the best winter vacations with kids is Jasper! Families are drawn to the enchanting winter landscapes in Alberta, where the Canadian Rockies come alive in snowy splendor. Plus, Jasper offers plenty of family-friendly activities in the winter, including hiking, horse-drawn sleigh rides, skiing, winter festivals (like Jasper in January!), and much more.
The extensive trail network transforms into a snowy playground for all ages, inviting families to explore winter wonderlands on foot, snowshoes, or cross-country skis. Start your exploration at the iconic Maligne Canyon Icewalk. Here, you can impress kids (ages 6+) with views of frozen waterfalls and fun trails surrounded by towering limestone walls. You can still explore other parts of Jasper National Park with younger kids. From hiking to biking, many trails are still accessible in the snow! Alternatively, those seeking an adrenaline rush can check out Marmot Basin. It offers exciting skiing and snowboarding opportunities suitable for all skill levels. Families can also enjoy the magical experience of dog sledding through snow-covered forests, adding a touch of Arctic charm to your winter getaway in Canada with kids. Finally, lace up those skates and glide across Pyramid Lake together!
When you need a reprieve from the cold, visit Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives. Or, enjoy the evening views at the Jasper Planetarium. It is home to the Rockies’ largest telescope!
Family-Friendly Hotels in Jasper
When you’re ready to book your stay in Jasper with kids, there is no shortage of great options, including Pyramid Lake Lodge, The Crimson, Chateau Jasper, and Miette Mountain Cabins. Families also like staying at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and Whistlers Inn. Then, check Vrbo to find a home rental that fits all your needs for a great family stay!
Whistler, British Columbia
Discover Whistler’s outdoor wonders with kids! Nestled in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, this area is renowned for its world-class skiing. You can begin each day with thrilling ski runs (or book lessons to learn new skills!). And then end each day fireside with a cozy mug of hot cocoa. In fact, Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski area in North America! For family fun, the Bubly Tube Park is a favourite. Plus, you can’t miss the Fire & Ice Show, happening every Sunday throughout the winter months!
As one of the best winter weekend getaways for families, this alpine village transforms into a winter paradise. Whistler offers plenty of shopping, top-notch restaurants, and more. When you’re ready for more outdoor fun, find the outdoor skating rink at Whistler Olympic Plaza. Alternatively, take a ride on the magical Peak 2 Peak Gondola for awe-inspiring views of the valley below. Then, the area offers snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and winter zip-ling. Need an indoor activity? Plan a day at the Indoor Rock Climbing at The Core or Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre. No wonder Whistler is one of the best winter vacations for families!
Family-Friendly Hotels in Whistler
Ready to book your trip? There are several excellent hotels in Whistler for families. In particular, outdoor adventure families love Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel by Paradox and Pan Pacific Whistler Village Centre, both located in the main village. You can also consider The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, First Tracks Lodge, and Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa. Finally, check Vrbo for home rentals that fit your family’s needs.
Québec City, Québec
Charming city streets meet endless outdoor adventures when you visit Québec City with kids! With its picturesque snowy landscapes and captivating European-inspired architecture, this historic city is a year-round delight. However, it is simply magical during the winter! Start your visit by wandering through Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don’t miss the yummy treats along Rue de Petit Champlain, like maple taffy on snow. Then, head to Terrasse Dufferin, where you can see the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and slide down the toboggan run.Â
Around town, there are also several ice skating options for families, including nearby forest skating trails. As one of the best winter destinations with snow, you will find Jacques-Cartier National Park just 30 minutes from Old Québec. The park offers picturesque snowshoeing and hiking for all ages. Closer to the city, Parc de la Chute‑Montmorency is another excellent place for winter hiking. If the weather cooperates, you can even take a ride along the cable car for an epic view! Then, if you want to go skiing or snowboarding, Mont-Sainte-Anne Ski Resort is only about 30 minutes away. Finally, when you’re ready to head inside, add Parc Aquarium de Québec, Musée de la Civilisation, or Musée Huron-Wendat (in nearby Wendake) to your itinerary.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Québec City
Wondering where to stay in Québec City with kids? As one of the best winter vacations for families, there are several great options! Families love Hilton Quebec, Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Hôtel Palace Royal, and Le Capitole Hôtel – all of which offer pools. For a fantastic location, Quebec City Marriott Downtown and Royal Dalhousie are two more great options. Finally, don’t forget to check Vrbo for rental homes offering all the amenities your family needs.
Canmore
We can’t talk about the best kid-friendly winter vacations without mentioning Canmore! In the winter, this town in Alberta comes alive with snowy fun. The town’s cozy atmosphere, coupled with its proximity to Banff National Park, makes Canmore a perfect destination for families this winter. Surrounded by the stunning Canadian Rockies, this area offers a wealth of winter activities that cater to all ages, including hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, curling, and horse-drawn sleigh rides at Boundary Ranch.
Firstly, families can lace up their winter boots and explore snowy trails together! With hiking options ranging from leisurely to more challenging treks, plenty of options exist for all skill levels. Start with Grotto Canyon Trail, which offers a winter ice walk. Plus, most trails showcase breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks! Then, the Canmore Nordic Centre is a hub for winter sports. To start, it offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Alternatively, try curling at the Canmore Curling Club. In Canmore, you can also try ice skating on the frozen ponds, or embarking on a dog sledding excursion. Nakiska Mountain Resort and Lake Louise Ski Area feature snow tubing parks for even more kid-friendly fun.
When you’re ready to warm up inside, you can’t miss The Chiniki Cultural Centre or the Canmore Museum.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Canmore
Book one of the top kid-friendly hotels to enhance your experience at one of the best winter vacation destinations for families! We wholeheartedly recommend the Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre. They offer an indoor heated pool and hot tub that families will love! Not to mention, seasonal fire pit & s’mores and on-site dining. For 10% off, use our discount code: KWE10.Â
Then, Basecamp Resorts Canmore and Basecamp Suites Canmore are two more great options that we love for their family-friendly staff and modern amenities. Plus, you can also consider Northwinds Hotel Canmore and Basecamp Lodge Canmore. For 10% off all Basecamp properties, use our discount code: Kidswhoexplore.
Breckenridge, Colorado
In Colorado, Breckenridge is undoubtedly one of the best winter vacations with snow in the USA. From skiing and winter hiking to alpine coasters and hidden trolls, Breckenridge has a lot to offer outdoor adventure families this winter. Even better, it’s only about 90 minutes from Denver!
Families interested in skiing or snowboarding can make their way to Breckenridge Ski Resort. They have specific family zones and well-marked, more accessible areas for new skiers. Then, with five peaks and four terrain parks available, there are plenty of options, no matter your experience or skill level. Notably, Peak 8 and Peak 9 have plenty of trails for beginners, plus fun Kids’ Adventure Zones. Alternatively, there’s ice skating at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena for non-skiers. Or, try sledding at Carter Park! Snowmobiling, an alpine coaster, dog sledding, and sleigh rides are also available in the area.Â
If you plan to hike, kids will delight in saying HI to the Breckenridge Troll, located on the Trollstigen Trail. Or, get stunning mountain views while hiking Iowa Hill Mine Trail, a 0.6-mile loop. Then, Lower Sawmill and Snowflake Trail Loop, Saphire Point Trail, and Riverwalk Center Breckenridge are also great options with kids. Need just one more activity to fill your days? Families can learn more about the area at the Mountain Top Children’s Museum.  Undoubtedly, Breckenridge is one of the best winter vacations for families!
Family-Friendly Hotels in Breckenridge
Looking for family-friendly hotels in Breckenridge? Try One Ski Hill Place – Peak 8, a ski-in/ski-out lodge at the base of Peak 8. Alternatively, Grand Colorado on Peak 8 and Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center are two more wonderful options offering ski-in/ski-out access for families. For something a little more rustic, book Mountain Thunder Lodge.
Park City, Utah
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City offers several exhilarating outdoor activities for families. Not to mention, it is one of the best winter destinations for families! Start your visit by exploring the Park City Main Street Historic District, featuring lovely shops, restaurants, and the Park City Museum. Then, those looking to lace up can find ice skating options at the Resort Center Ice Skating Rink (located inside The Lodge at the Mountain Village).
As one of the best winter vacations with snow, add skiing or snowboarding to your Park City itinerary! In fact, Park City Mountain Resort has runs that cater to all skill levels looking to hit the slopes. If you are not interested in skiing or snowboarding, try snow tubing at Woodward Park City. Here, you will find some of Utah’s longest tubing lanes, suitable for kids aged 4 and up. Plus, kids will love the Mountain Coaster. Imagine the thrill of winding through a snowy winter landscape! After spending all day outside, indulge in a unique dining and sleigh ride experience at the Snowed Inn Sleigh Co. Restaurant.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Park City
Looking for hotels in Park City with kids? Start with Hyatt Centric Park City. It offers a shuttle service, as well as ski-in/ski-out access and an outdoor pool. Alternatively, Lodge at Mountain Village, Washington School House Hotel, Westgate Park City Resort and Spa, and Marriott’s MountainSide are also family-friendly hotels in the area. Finally, Waldorf Astoria Park City is another excellent option for families visiting Park City with kids!
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
A list of the best winter vacations for families would be incomplete without mentioning Lake Tahoe! Lake Tahoe is divided into two areas, North and South. North Lake Tahoe is more nature-focused, while the South Shore offers more nightlife and entertainment. Located on the California-Nevada border, this area is filled to the brim with natural beauty, opportunities to ski and snowboard, and much more winter fun. Want to hit the slopes first? Palisades Tahoe, Northstar California Resort, and Heavenly Mountain Resort stand out as premier ski destinations, catering to all skill levels. Alternatively, Sierra-at-Tahoe Resort is another favourite among families on a budget or those traveling with beginner skiers.Â
If you’re looking for even more winter activities to keep kids entertained, consider adding snowshoeing, hiking, or cross-country skiing to your agenda. Snow tubing at SugarBowl’s Sugar Rush is another great option with kids! Then, don’t miss taking an aerial tram ride tram to the top of Palisades Tahoe or Heavenly. The views are sure to impress kids of all ages! After your daily outdoor adventures, warm up with hot cocoa while exploring Heavenly Village in South Lake Tahoe. It is a charming area filled with shops, restaurants, and more. There is even an outdoor skating rink here! Finally, if you need an indoor activity or two, consider KidZone Museum or The Discovery!
Family-Friendly Hotels in Lake Tahoe
When planning a trip to Lake Tahoe with kids, research where you want to stay. There are many options, including South Lake Tahoe, Squaw Valley, and Truckee. Each area has its own pros and cons for families. For hotels in South Lake Tahoe, consider family-friendly properties like Marriott’s Timber Lodge, Beach Retreat & Lodge at Tahoe (offers a shuttle to Heavenly Ski Resort), or Hilton Vacation Club Tahoe Seasons Lake Tahoe. Then, in Squaw Valley, families like staying at The Village at Palisades Tahoe Lodging or Everline Resort and Spa. Finally, in Truckee, take a look at Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel, SpringHill Suites Truckee, and Hampton Inn & Suites Tahoe-Truckee.
Grand Marais, Minnesota
Located in Northern Minnesota, just 90 minutes south of Thunder Bay, Grand Marais is a haven for family-friendly winter adventures. Start your visit by strolling through the charming downtown area. Here, you will find a variety of shops, restaurants, and a stunning Lake Superior harbor. Kids will love skipping frozen rocks across the open water or ice (depending on when you visit). Families who enjoy outdoor adventures are easily impressed by the many winter activities offered in Grand Marais, from hiking near frozen waterfalls and snowshoeing to alpine skiing and dog-sledding.Â
This area features some of Minnesota’s best hiking. And, during the winter months, families will love hiking snowy trails at places like Cascade River State Park, Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Oberg Mountain, and Grand Portage State Park – to name just a few. As one of the best winter vacations with snow in the USA, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, fat tire biking, and ice skating are also available here. Alpine slopes are also available at Lutsen Mountains. Want to try something unique with your kids? Check out the open curling sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the Cook County Curling Club. Alternatively, Points Unknown offers an outstanding dog sledding experience for all ages. Finally, after a long day of exploring together, curl up with a card game, a good book, or a bit of conversation around a cozy fire.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Grand Marais
Looking for a place to stay in Grand Marais with kids? If you’re planning to ski, Lutsen Resort is the best option! Then, Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior is another fantastic option nestled along Lake Superior. As one of the best winter family vacations on a budget, there are plenty of affordable hotel options here, too! Consider the Best Western Plus Superior Inn or the Grand Superior Lodge. Finally, families also like staying at East Bay Suites, Thomsonite Inn, Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters, and Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill.
Anchorage, Alaska
Families embrace the winter wonderland of Anchorage, Alaska. Every year, it transforms into a snowy paradise during the colder months! Anchorage offers a lovely blend of outdoor adventures, from hiking and snowshoeing to dog sledding. In fact, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, families can explore the city and its epic trail system for days on end!
As one of the best winter vacations with snow in the USA, start your trip on skis or snowboard at one of the nearby alpine resorts like Hilltop Ski Area. When you’re ready to hike along snowy trails with kids, consider Eagle River Nature Center, Byron Glacier Trail, and Reflections Lake. You’ll also find ample opportunities to snowshoe and cross-country ski around the area! Then, experience the joy of ice skating on Westchester Lagoon. Or, attend one of the thrilling events at Fur Rendezvous Festival, Alaska’s largest and oldest winter festival. It celebrates Alaska’s winter culture with events like snowshoe softball and dog sled races! If you’re looking to take your own dog sledding trek, there are plenty of options in Anchorage for families. Finally, time your visit right; you may even see the northern lights during your trip.
When you need an indoor day, consider adding Anchorage Museum, Alaska Native Heritage Center, or Alaska Aviation Museum to your agenda. Families also enjoy exploring the Alaska Zoo and Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center together.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Anchorage
Looking for a place to stay in Anchorage with kids? Consider The Lakefront Anchorage, Sheraton Anchorage Hotel & Spa, Marriott Anchorage Downtown, and Alyeska Resort. Alternatively, many families also like Residence Inn by Marriott Anchorage Midtown, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Anchorage Midtown, Hampton Inn Anchorage, and Staybridge Suites Anchorage (offering family suites!).
More of the Best Winter Vacations for Families
While not solely focused on fun in the snow, these winter vacations still offer a lot of wintery fun for families! These three destinations offer hiking and other outdoor activities in cooler weather (and maybe a bit of snow). Beat the summer heat of Utah and Arizona by making one of these destinations your next winter vacation with kids.
Sedona, Arizona
As one of the best winter vacations in the US, families find winter in Sedona, Arizona, filled with fun outdoor adventures. Known for its iconic red rock formations, Sedona’s winter charm lies in its mild temperatures, creating an ideal setting for families to explore the stunning landscapes, on foot or on horseback.
The area’s extensive trail system offers various options for all ages, from easy treks to more challenging day hikes. If you’re ready to hit the trails, families typically like Fay Canyon Trail, Birthing Cave Trail, Cathedral Rock, West Fork, Seven Sacred Pools, and Eagle’s Nest Trail Sedona – to name just a tiny sample of the many options! For a more challenging hike, Bell Rock Pathway is a 7-mile round-trip hike with up-close views of the iconic rock formations! Of course, Devil’s Bridge Trail is an iconic option. Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock are also top experiences in Sedona with kids.Â
Beyond hiking, Sedona’s winter allows for other thrilling outdoor activities, such as jeep tours, hot air balloon rides, mountain biking, and stargazing under the clear desert skies. Then, you can learn about local indigenous communities at Montezuma Castle National Monument (full accessible trails here, too!) or the Palatiki National Heritage Site. Plus, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is one of the most popular things to do in Sedona. Finally, just 20 minutes from Sedona, Trail Horse Adventures offers horseback riding in Dead Horse Ranch State Park.Â
Finally, it is also worth noting that Sedona is only about 2 hours from the Grand Canyon, another kid-friendly winter destination on this list!
Family-Friendly Hotels in Sedona
Looking for kid-friendly hotels in Sedona? Try Adobe Gran Villas for a Pueblo-style accommodation. Those needing budget hotels in Sedona will enjoy Courtyard Sedona by Marriott, Amara Resort and Spa, and Junipine Resort, among other places. Finally, Enchantment Resort and L’Auberge De Sedona both offer luxury stays with kid-friendly amenities. With so many great options, you’ll quickly see why Sedona is one of the best winter vacations for families.
Utah National Parks
Families adore Utah’s Big 5 National Parks during the winter months for a captivating outdoor experience with mild temperatures. With fewer crowds and a dusting of snow, the red rock landscapes of Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks take on a serene and enchanting ambiance. Choose any one of the parks, or mix and match a few, for one of the best winter vacations for families!
During your Utah adventures, embark on winter hikes, exploring iconic trails without the summer heat or crowds. In Zion National Park, some trails may be closed, but generally, you can still explore The Narrows, Angels Landing, Weeping Rock Trail, and the lower Emerald Pool Trail, among other popular trails. Then, head to Arches National Park, where the iconic arches can still be viewed without the crowds! Most trails will remain open, including The Windows, Double Arch, and Landscape Arch.Â
Featuring cooler weather due to its elevation, Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos will also be dusted in snow! Here, families can trek along trails like Rim Trail, Queens Garden, and Bristlecone Loop. Plus, Bryce Canyon National Park usually holds an annual Winter Festival in February (President’s Day weekend). Of course, Canyonlands and Capitol Reef offer their own thrilling trails and viewpoints.
Winter also offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in designated areas. Not to mention, ranger-led programs that bring the parks’ natural wonders to life. Regardless of which Utah national park you choose, check in with a ranger about weather conditions before heading out for the day. Winter is a quieter, more intimate time to visit, from the awe-inspiring Delicate Arch in Arches National Park to the slot canyons of Capitol Reef. Undoubtedly, it is an ideal winter vacation for families who want to connect with nature and each other in the heart of Utah.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Utah
As one of the best winter family vacations on a budget, there are plenty of low-cost accommodations in Utah to help you explore one or more of these national parks! Near Bryce Canyon National Park, consider Ruby’s Inn. Then, staying in Springdale is a great option for hotels near Zion National Park, as many offer shuttle service to the visitor’s center. Consider Cable Mountain Lodge, SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park, and The Zion Mountain Ranch, among other great options. Then, many families enjoy Cougar Ridge Lodge, located near Capitol Reef National Park in Torrey. Finally, near Arches and Canyonlands, Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Hyatt Place Moab are two very kid-friendly hotels in Utah.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
While part of the national park closes in the fall, the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park remains open during the winter months. And, it is one of the best winter vacation spots with kids! Even though you’ll need to skip the north rim, there are still plenty of fun outdoor adventures to enjoy in the winter. Plus, you’ll enjoy mild weather, breathtaking snow-capped views of the canyon, and smaller crowds during your visit! Not to mention, reservations are much easier to secure during the winter season.
When you arrive, have your kids connect with a Ranger to receive their Junior Ranger packet. This activity-filled document is an excellent way for them to learn about and explore Grand Canyon National Park. Plus, those who finish will be rewarded with a badge! When you’re ready to hike, Rim Trail, Bright Angel Trail, and Trail of Time are great winter options. In addition to hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding are also fun winter activities to enjoy together. If it snows during your trip, don’t worry too much about driving. Two of the park’s shuttle routes continue to run throughout the winter.Â
Family-Friendly Hotels near Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
As one of the best winter weekend getaways for families, plenty of hotels near Grand Canyon National Park are ideal with kids. Generally, families love booking El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge, Maswik Lodge, and Yavapai Lodge.
Let's Explore
We hope you found this post on the best winter vacations for families helpful in planning your adventures. Whether you’re looking for the best winter family vacations in Canada or the best sun-soaked US destinations, one thing is sure – you and your kids are bound to make endless memories together this winter.
