Skiing with Kids at Squaw Valley

With it’s steep runs, sweeping views of the lake, and laid back California vibe, Squaw Valley is truly a bucket list resort. Locals take their out-of-town friends here for the iconic skiing and unbeatable apres. Now that Alpine Meadows and Squaw Valley are on the same ticket, this mega resort has over 6,500 acres. There’s a reason why Squaw Valley, home of the 1960 Olympics, is known as one of the top North American Ski Resorts. But what about your family? We’re here to tell you that Squaw Valley will become one of your family’s favorite resorts. Offering terrain for every member of your family, an unforgettable apres experience in the Village, and that California charm that we all love so much, your family will fall in love with this mountain.

Where to Stay

Ski in, ski out? Heated outdoor pools? Rooms for every budget? While there are a handful of lodging options at Squaw Valley, we recommend staying at either the Squaw Valley Lodge or the Resort at Squaw Creek to make things as easy as possible for your family. The Squaw Valley Lodge is a budget friendly option with ski in, ski out access and an outdoor heated pool. Some condos even offer fully equipped kitchens! If you’re looking for luxury, you’ll want to check out the Resort at Squaw Creek, which was rated as one of the Top 50 Best Resorts in North America. You’ll love how easy it is to get the family out the door and on the base area each day, but your kids will love the outdoor pools and hot tubs. Wherever you decide to stay in Squaw Valley, we will be honored to show up at your door to deliver everything you need to ski for your trip, and even give you a custom boot fitting.

Where to ski

While Squaw Valley certainly delivers on that steep and challenging terrain that you might be craving, even the newest skiers in your group will find plenty of fun runs to learn on. A tram ride up the mountain brings beginners to plenty of green runs (and sweeping views of the lake and valley below). If you have beginners in your family, we recommend heading to High Camp at the top of the tram to find the most mellow green runs on the mountain. Bailey’s Beach, Mountain Meadow, and Belmont are the lifts that you’re newest skiers will want to spend most of their time. This is where you’ll also find beginner terrain parks! Is it your little one’s very first time ever on skis? If you have some ​“first-time-ever’s” in your group, take a moment and help them get acquainted with the feeling of sliding around on their skis at the base of the mountain, at the SnoVentures zone. The series of magic carpets and first-time-ever lifts will leave your little one feeling confident and ready to ride the aerial tram up to the beginner lifts at High Camp. 

Ski School and Childcare

I mean, sure, you could teach your little ones to ski, but we like to leave it to the pros. This is your vacation after all! Squaw Kids has a massive ski school program, with offerings for every level and age of skier. Wanting to learn with your kids? Check out the unique programs like Teaching Tykes, that where parents and kids can learn together. Squaw Valley knows the first day of ski school can feel intimidating, especially at a large resort. They’ve put together a guide to help you with your first day of ski school, so you make sure your little one (and you!) are prepared and know what to expect. While the resort does not offer childcare, several of the hotels have programs for kids as young as 4 years old, or can recommend childcare services in the area. 

Family Friendly Apres

The Village at Squaw Valley is the ultimate party zone for families. The fun only begins with the live music, bustling bars and restaurants, and the shops. Your kids are going to love the rock climbing wall, the Skyjump Trampoline, and most especially, SnoVentures. SnoVentures has a series of mini lifts and magic carpets, where your little ones can go sledding, snow tubing, and even ride mini snowmobiles! Want the party to begin before you even get back to the base of the mountain? High Camp has its own apres scene, with an ice skating rink, and even hot tubs (hot tubs open in March).

Family Discounts

Squaw Valley wants to offer your first day of skiing on them if you fly into town on the same day. All you have to do is bring your boarding pass from your morning flight and you can ski free for the rest of the day. If you’ll be skiing multiple days at Squaw, you might want to check out the Tahoe Super 4 Pack. Any chance you already have an Ikon Pass? You are in luck! Ikon pass holders have unlimited access to Squaw Valley. Oh! We almost forgot to mention: children 4 and under always ski free at Squaw! 

A Few Tips For Skiing With Kids 

Skiing with your kids and raising lifelong ski buddies can be super rewarding. Instead of focusing on accomplishing technical goals, keeping it lighthearted and playful, and not being shy about heading inside for a cookie when a break is a recipe for a great time. If you’re having fun, they usually have fun, and after a day of high fives and cold toes, you’ll both have earned a treat. Head into lodge at High Camp at the top of the aerial tram and order a locally made sugar cookie for your little one and a round of hot cocoas for you both.

We are looking forward to seeing you at Squaw Valley and helping you get set for the mountain. Make your reservations here to have your gear delivered right to your door. 

Is Squaw Valley already checked off your list? Let Ski Butlers take care of you at one of our other locations around the world. See you on the slopes!