Colorado Mom Reveals Skiing & Snowboarding Tips for Saving Money with Kids

Planning Your Family’s Ski Season in Colorado

As the winter season approaches, it's time to start thinking about the best ski passes for your family, especially if you have children. While skiing can be expensive, there are several ways to save money and make the experience more affordable for everyone. With a little planning, families can enjoy the slopes without breaking the bank.

Kyana Miner, a Colorado mom and influencer with over 31,000 followers on Instagram, knows the importance of budget-friendly family adventures. With four children aged six to 13, she frequently shares her family's experiences exploring the state and encourages others to find ways to enjoy outdoor activities on a budget.

"Skiing as a family of six can get quite pricey," said Miner. "Families are always looking for ways to save, and taking advantage of ski passes is one of the best strategies."

Recommended Ski Passes for Families

Miner recommends two specific passes that can help reduce costs. The Epic SchoolKids Colorado Pack is a free program available for kindergartners through fifth graders. It provides four days of skiing or snowboarding at five resorts, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Crested Butte. Registration for this pass typically opens in the spring and remains open until the end of September.

Another option is the Colorado Ski Country USA pass, which allows skiers and snowboarders in kindergarten through sixth grade to explore 19 Colorado resorts. This pass offers four days of access at each resort, totaling 76 days of skiing for around $70. Sales for this pass usually end in January, so it's important to act quickly.

Additional Tips for Saving Money

In addition to using these passes, Miner suggests looking for packages that combine lodging and lift tickets. These deals often provide better value and help families maximize their spending.

Many resorts also offer their own programs or discounts for children. For example, some mountains provide free or discounted passes for kids, particularly for those aged four and under. It's always a good idea to check with the specific resorts you're interested in visiting to see what options they may have.

Timing and Location Matter

Miner emphasizes the importance of planning early. "Now is the time to start locking in your lodging and deciding where you want to go," she said. Waiting until later in the season can lead to higher prices and fewer options.

She also recommends hitting the slopes during the week, when prices are often lower compared to weekends or holidays. Smaller resorts can also be a great option, as they tend to offer more affordable rates and sometimes even free or discounted passes for children.

Gear Rentals and Other Cost-Saving Strategies

Renting gear is another way to save money, especially for younger children. Miner highlights that places like Christy Sports offer free kids' ski rentals when you rent adult gear for four days. She also advises against purchasing gear for children until they are teenagers, as they often outgrow their equipment quickly.

"Renting children's gear is always the best choice," said Miner. "You don’t want to keep repurchasing gear every season. Waiting until they’re older, when they stay in a size longer, is the best time to invest in quality equipment."

Exploring Smaller Resorts

Smaller resorts can provide an excellent alternative to the larger, more crowded ones. They often offer similar quality skiing and snowboarding at a fraction of the cost. For instance, Winter Park is just a short drive from Denver and can be a great spot for a day trip, helping families avoid extra lodging expenses.

By taking advantage of available passes, planning ahead, and considering smaller resorts, families can enjoy the thrill of skiing without the high costs. With the right approach, every child can experience the joy of the slopes.