Nearly two feet of snow fell in Buffalo, New York this week (although some of it is melting) and our neighbors to the north (in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula) got blasted with blizzard-like conditions (more than a foot of snow coupled with wind gusts of 40 miles per hour) I guess it means it’s time… to break out the skis. I’m kidding. Well, half-kidding anyway. The majority of the United States is still experiencing fall-like conditions (we are only in the early stages of autumn after all), but the recent snowfall and bone-chilling temperatures (we had wind chills in the teens last night) is making me think of winter and winter time activities—like skiing.
Even if your trees still have all their leaves and your grass is as green as limes, you may consider thinking about a family ski vacation. Nowadays, more and more ski areas are catering to families by offering classes for children of all ages. Some even provide child-care at on-site nurseries for the youngest members of the family. For older children, many (if not all) ski resorts offer half-day and full-day skiing programs. In our area, childrens ski programs typically include instruction, lift tickets, rental equipment, food and supervision. These programs give you the chance to spend time on the slopes alone or with your spouse, knowing that qualified ski instructors are monitoring your child.
If downhill skiing with five kids (all under the age of 12) sounds more like a nightmare than a vacation, consider cross-country skiing. This sport allows you to trade the noisy, crowded lift lines for a day spent shushing through quiet open fields. Cross-country skiing is a great option if your child is scared of the slopes. Most travel brochures will focus on the downhill skiing opportunities available at a specific resort, but by simply inquiring with a resort reservation specialist, you may be surprised how may downhill resorts also offer affordable and family friendly cross country ski packages as well. Most packages include age and size appropriate equipment for younger children. Or, if you are a skilled cross-country skier with an infant your little one can ride in comfort strapped to your back in a pack or tote.
In my next blog I will provide some tips on how to make the most of your family ski vacation.