Planning your family’s first ski trip? Stowe, VT, might just be the perfect destination. With comprehensive ski and snowboard programs, including group and private lessons, Stowe Mountain Resort caters to beginners of all ages. Here’s everything you need to know to make your family ski adventure a success.
Ski and Snowboard Programs
Stowe Mountain Resort offers a variety of ski and snowboard programs designed to accommodate all skill levels. These include:
- Group Lessons: Perfect for beginners, these lessons provide professional instruction from experienced instructors.
- Private Lessons: Tailored to individual needs, private lessons offer personalized attention and faster progress.
- Seasonal Programs: For those looking for a longer commitment, seasonal programs offer ongoing instruction throughout the season. Registration for the 2025-2026 season begins in late August, with early registration available for returning participants.
- Specialty Programs: These programs focus on specific skills or interests, providing a unique learning experience.
Each lesson includes professional instruction. Full-day children's group lessons may include lunch. Check the lesson details to verify inclusions, as lift tickets and rentals are typically not included. However, you can add these at a discounted rate when purchasing a group lesson. Alternatively, you may bring your own equipment.
All lesson participants must have a valid season pass or lift ticket and ski or snowboard equipment. Passes are available for purchase here.
How kids learn to ski
Preparing for Your Ski Trip
Weather conditions can vary, so dressing in layers is essential. Remember to include warm clothes, goggles/sunglasses, and sunscreen. The resort will not cancel lessons due to weather if it remains operational.
Read also: Winter Season at Stowe
Special Needs and Dietary Requests
Stowe Mountain Resort strives to accommodate dietary needs and offers different options when possible. When registering for child group lessons, you can inform the staff of any drug or food allergies. Parents of children with severe food allergies or dietary restrictions are encouraged to send appropriate lunches and/or snacks with their children.
Gratuities and Cancellations
Gratuities for instructors are not a requirement but are appreciated. Changes or cancellations must be made in advance of your lesson date by contacting the Ski & Ride School. For multi-day lessons, a cancellation fee of 50% of the cost of the first lesson applies.
Finding the Perfect Accommodation
When planning a family ski trip, finding the right accommodation is crucial. A suite-like setup with a kitchenette is ideal for families with small children. While "ski in, ski out" locations may seem appealing, they may not be necessary for newbie skiers. Focus on finding a comfortable location that is not too far from the ski area and has easy access to restaurants and convenience stores.
The Village Green Condos offer a perfect setup for families. These units typically feature a kitchen, living space, bedrooms, and baths. A mudroom/foyer is a great addition for storing wet gear. Parking is conveniently located, and check-in is hassle-free with a lock box system.
Exploring Stowe Mountain Resort
Stowe Resort, particularly the Spruce Peak area, has undergone significant renovations, making it a fantastic destination for families. The Village offers stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and a spacious cafeteria. The Spruce Peak area features three chair lifts with beginner and intermediate terrain. There’s also an ice skating rink and a toy and candy shop with free family programs.
Read also: Learn to Snowboard at Brian Head
The Spruce Camp Base Lodge provides a comfortable space for families, with registration desks located on the lower floor and free lockers available.
How kids learn to ski
Renting Equipment and Purchasing Passes
To save time, register for ski school, reserve rental equipment, and buy ski passes online in advance. Pick up rentals after 3 pm to avoid charges for that day. While the kids’ rental equipment was through the Stowe Resort, my husband and I accidentally rented our equipment from a different place a few doors down called Tru North (so easy to click on a link online and wham, you’re somewhere else and you didn’t even know it LOL). Tru North allows you to return equipment at the end of the day and pick it up the next morning, labeled with your name.
First Day on the Mountain
Arrive early to avoid parking issues and long lines. The Over Easy Gondola provides access to the Spruce Peak Base Area, where ski school meets. Ski school programs typically run from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, with snacks and lunch provided in a separate dining space. Start beginners in the appropriate group based on their experience level. Even with limited prior experience, children can quickly progress to riding chair lifts and skiing down green circle trails.
Dining Options
Stowe offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes. Piecasso is a popular pizza place with a mini arcade, while The Whip and The Backyard offer takeout options with kid-friendly menus. Order early, as wait times can be up to 2 hours during busy weekends.
Additional Tips
- Stroller Friendly: Stowe is very baby-friendly, with babies in strollers and carriers throughout the resort.
- Nursing Pod: A dedicated nursing pod is available in the Spruce Base Camp Lodge.
- Coffee Mug Friendly: Enjoy your cup of joe slope-side.
- Restrooms: Restrooms with diaper-changing areas are available.
- Parking: Limited pay-by-the-hour parking is available at Spruce Peak, with free parking at the Mansfield Mountain base area and access to the Over Easy Gondola.
- Food: Outside food is allowed but only in designated areas.
- Dress Code: Children age 14 and under must wear a winter sport protective helmet while participating in ski & ride school. Helmets are recommended for all skiers and riders of any age. Ski goggles and sunscreen are also recommended.
With careful planning and preparation, your family’s first ski trip to Stowe can be a resounding success.
Read also: Learn to Snowboard: Crystal Mountain