Our first family ski trip was perfectly timed for the Family Day long weekend a couple of years ago. As the kids were entering their tween and teen years, we knew it was time to find winter activities that felt more engaging, fun, and just a little more challenging. Tobogganing down small neighbourhood hills was slowly losing its charm.

Fortunately, I managed to snag one of the few remaining rooms at Hidden Valley Ski Resort in Huntsville and was thrilled that it lined up with the holiday weekend.

Our family ski trip turned out to be exactly what we needed — a chance to step away from our routines, reconnect with the kids, and simply be together for a few days.

I always look forward to these pockets of time outside the city, away from the usual busyness of home life, soaking in that warm, fuzzy feeling that only comes from uninterrupted family time. It had also been years since I’d been skiing — long before kids were in the picture — so returning to the slopes as a family felt both nostalgic and wonderfully full circle.

We were lucky to book a family room (for 5) that was spacious enough for all of us and our mountain of gear, which meant we didn’t have to split into two rooms. Even better, the location was incredibly convenient — we could literally cross the road and ski straight to the lifts.

Fancy it was not. Warm and cozy it absolutely was.

First-Time Skiers & Proud Parent Moments

We knew this trip would be special because it marked a big milestone: the kids’ first time alpine skiing. Despite a chilly start, the day warmed up nicely and turned into a very pleasant introduction to the sport.

After just a few runs on the bunny hill, they surprised us by confidently heading over to the green runs. I, on the other hand, was quickly reminded how much I do not love steep hills.

By our final ski day (and night!), the kids had progressed enough to tackle an easy blue run — and they did it with confidence. Watching their determination and willingness to try something new made us incredibly proud.

Of course, the fun came with a side of sore knees, tired muscles, and gentle reminders that we are… not as young as we once were. But it was worth every ache.

A Snowy Start (and a Windy One)

The kids loved alpine skiing so much and our first trip to Hidden Valley Ski Resort gave us the confidence to later tackle the bigger slopes at Blue Mountain.

We were lucky to have fresh snow that weekend and wasted no time kicking things off with night skiing. The views were beautiful, but the ski lifts came with some seriously windy, icy gusts that reminded us very quickly… winter was not messing around.

The following day, however, was absolute perfection — blue skies, fresh snow, and temperatures hovering right around zero. We couldn’t have asked for better conditions on the slopes.

Sunday brought a very different vibe. Brutally cold temperatures had us bundled to the max and waiting in long lines for various activities — including an uncomfortably long 30+ minute wait in –25°C weather just to try snow tubing.

To be honest, the tubing at Blue Mountain itself was a little disappointing… but the real fun came from experiencing the adventure (and the discomfort!) together. Thankfully, we found plenty of other highlights, including the evening coaster ride, which was a big hit — even in the dark. We did have a great tubing experience this year on another very cold winter weekend at Snow Valley (Barrie). You can read more about this weekend trip here.

We also made our way back to the mountainview outdoor skating trail for a second visit that day, this time for a magical night skate. The trail was beautifully lit, and a cozy bonfire welcomed skaters as they laced up and warmed their hands. It was one of those simple, quietly memorable moments.

A Family Weekend Well Spent

This trip was certainly a memorable one — from cold showers and fully booked hot tubs to the inevitable falls, bumps, and bruises. But there were also thrills, plenty of chill, and most of all… many hills.

There was still so much more we wanted to do, which simply means one thing: we’ll have to come back to Blue Mountain again soon.

As we wrapped up the weekend, I couldn’t help but feel grateful — for the snow, the shared experiences, the laughter, and the memories made somewhere between the cold fingers and tired legs.

This trip reminded me that family time doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes it’s a little cold, a little chaotic, and still exactly what everyone needs.

What We Learned from Our First Family Ski Trips

After our first trips to Hidden Valley Ski Resort and later to Blue Mountain, we quickly realized that family ski getaways are equal parts magical and humbling. There’s nothing quite like watching your kids gain confidence on the slopes — but there’s definitely a learning curve (for everyone involved!).

Between forgotten gear, sore muscles, and a few “we should have packed that” moments, we picked up some helpful lessons along the way. If you’re planning your own family ski trip, here’s the checklist we wish we had the first time around.

Family Ski Trip Checklist

⛷️ What to Wear on the Slopes

• Waterproof ski jacket, a ski jacket would be ideal as it has handy pockets for small personal items but also a convenient pocket for your ski pass which you will use often to board the ski lift
• Snow pants
• Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• Warm mid-layer (fleece or light sweater)
• Wool or thermal socks (bring extras!)
• Waterproof ski gloves or mittens
• Helmet (often required for kids)
• Neck warmer or balaclava
• Warm hat for off the slopes
• Ski goggles or sunglasses

Lesson learned: Cotton is not your friend in winter. Stick with moisture-wicking layers whenever possible.

⛷️ What to Pack for the Day

• Lip balm (cold + wind = very dry lips)
• Sunscreen (yes, even in winter!)
• Hand warmers (game changer on cold lift rides)
• Small backpack or sling bag
• Water bottles
• Easy snacks for hungry kids
• Tissues (for those inevitable sniffly noses)
• Phone portable charger

Lesson learned: Hand warmers are absolute lifesavers in bitter cold and windy conditions. We quickly discovered this the day we stood in line for snow tubing — and wished we had packed more. One important tip: check the expiry dates before you go. A few of ours were past their prime and never warmed up… not exactly what you want when temperatures are plunging!

⛷️ First-Time Family Ski Tips

• Start on the bunny hill and take your time
• Book lessons if it’s your kids’ first time (worth it!)
• Arrive early to avoid long rental lines
• Take breaks before everyone gets overtired
• Don’t overpack your schedule — leave room for cozy downtime
• Check the weather and wind conditions the night before

Lesson learned: The best ski days are paced, not rushed.

⛷️ Bonus Tip: Plan One “Just for Fun” Activity

This could be as simple as heading into town for a cozy meal, planning a relaxing winter hot tub dip (we didn’t end up doing this — and honestly, I was a little relieved because it was so cold that weekend!), or warming up with hot chocolate in the Village. Sometimes the après-ski moments end up being the memories everyone talks about long after the trip is over.