Summit County Kids Winter Fun

Colorado winters are the stuff kids' memories are made from, given all the mountains, forests, skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and backcountry opportunities that take the kids into the Summit County wilderness.

Overview

Winter is no time to leave the kids at home. Make sure to bring the camera to capture all the moments of snowballs fights, snowshoe races, tubing and, of course, the skiing.

Kid Friendly Winter Activities

Skiing
Skiing is one of the most popular activities in Summit County, and for good reason. The terrain varies from beginners' hills to expert terrain, enough to challenge the kids, and maybe even push the adults.

Ski Resorts
The four ski resorts in Summit County all have facilities to help introduce kids to the sport, or to help them take it to the next level. These year-round resorts make sure kids have fun with their parents, and take care of them for a little grown-up time as well.

Snowboarding
Kids are drawn to snowboarding like moths to light, so why fight it? The resorts have runs for the entire group and terrain parks for the kids to socialize with other snowboarders to learn some of the new moves.

Hut Ski Trips
Getting out into the backcountry doesn't mean leaving the kids behind. Cross country ski or snowshoe into one of these rustic huts, filled with some creature comforts, like a wood stove to keep you warm and heat up the hot chocolate. Just don't forget the marshmallows.

Night Skiing
Sometimes kids need a little extra time on the mountain, so why not take them out to Keystone for those extra hours? The adults can appreciate the sunset views while the kids hone their skills in the A51 terrain park.

Backcountry
For those kids who really want to get out there, the Summit County backcountry couldn't be a better opportunity. Learning avalanche and winter safety from trained professionals is a great educational experience, on top of the journey itself.

Cross Country
Even young kids can quickly pick up the techniques needed for cross country skiing. They love the gliding motion of the flatlands and the challenge as they learn how to skate up the hills.

Snowmobiling
While the kids may not be able to drive until they're 15, riding with an adult (over 18) is still a great opportunity to have fun in the Colorado backcountry in a safe way.

Dog Sledding
This historic method of transport is a unique experience for kids. Learning how to drive a sled, or simply riding in it, will be an experience not easily be forgotten.

Sleigh Rides
Hop on a horse-drawn sleigh for either a quick tour or a full dinner affair, complete with a moonlight ride to finish the evening.

Snowbiking
Sometimes, the younger they are, the quicker they learn it. Snowbiking may be a new sport on the mountain, but that doesn't stop the kids from enjoying it just as much as the more traditional sports.

Snow Tubing
This is fun for the entire family, from the youngest to oldest. Sledding down the hill on a tube can be an exhilarating activity, especially since the lifts take you right back up to try it all over again.

Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a sport that participants, from the youngest kids to the oldest, inherently know because the technique is so similar to walking. Right foot, left foot, right up the mountainside or past icy riverbeds.

Ice Skating
What better way to bring out the rosy cheeks and smiling faces of the kids than a couple hours on the ice! Whether it's hockey, figure skating, or simply being on the ice with the entire family, don't forget to try this out while in the area.

Rentals & Fees

Kids' require such a collection of things to bring that it's often easier to simply rent them upon arrival. However, each activity is different, so inquire at the specific companies for prices.

Hire a Guide

Lessons are important for kids to learn the appropriate techniques to continue progressing. Most sports offered in the area have instructors who can help them improve in as little as a single lesson.

A guided tour, whether it be snowshoeing, hut-to-hut, snowmobiling or something else entirely, takes all the planning and stress out of the process. All you need to do is show up and have fun! 

Check with the outfitters and guides listed here to determine which is the best fit for you and your family. 

Safety Precautions

• Never attempt an activity that is beyond the capability of the least experienced member of your group.
• Follow the guide’s instructions.
• Always wear the appropriate safety gear for the particular activity.
• Remember that children tire more easily than adults do – don’t leave your patience at home!