Planning a family ski trip? The concerns are real: Will the mountain be too challenging? Will the kids enjoy it? Can everyone find their groove?
At Sun Valley Resort, the answer is yes. And it all starts with the mountains.
Everyone Deserves Their Ideal Ski Trip
The best family ski trips happen when nobody has to compromise—and Sun Valley is designed around exactly that idea.
With not one but two mountains, Sun Valley offers terrain suitable for every ability level. Children and beginners can build confidence on Dollar Mountain's welcoming slopes, while more experienced skiers and riders explore everything Bald Mountain has to offer. Whether you're all skiing together or splitting up to challenge yourselves or take lessons, everyone gets the experience they came for.
Built For Families
While Sun Valley's main attraction, Bald Mountain, offers 3,400 vertical feet of diverse terrain and leg-burning groomers, Dollar Mountain is what makes Sun Valley ideal for families. A perfect learning mountain with 628 vertical feet of terrain, including 16 runs and 5 lifts across 296 skiable acres, it offers world-class skiing and riding without the big mountain intimidation.
The terrain flows naturally from magic carpet, to easy greens, to confidence-building blues, and even offers a variety of terrain park features. Families can explore together while kids progress at their own pace. Nonexistent lift lines, a relaxed atmosphere, and clear sightlines from the base mean parents can watch their kids ski even during lessons.
SKI Magazine recently named Sun Valley one of "The 10 Best Ski Resorts in the West for Family Vacations" specifically highlighting Dollar Mountain's family-friendly terrain.
Adding to the fun, the new Sunny's Adventure Park brings a playful twist to Dollar Mountain and is perfect for families. Skiers and riders of all ages can weave through colorful tunnels, tap interactive features, and high-five Sunny the Bear as they navigate the course. The whimsical artwork and approachable elements turn skill-building into an adventure, giving families a creative way to explore the mountain together.
Lessons For The Whole Crew
Great instruction needs the right environment. Dollar Mountain delivers both—safe enough to build confidence, fun enough to keep kids coming back.
The Sun Valley Ski & Ride School focuses on making skiing enjoyable, not just technical. Kids learn through games and activities in group lessons, or get personalized attention through private instruction tailored to their skills and goals. As they improve, lessons move from Dollar to Bald Mountain, letting everyone progress naturally.
While kids are in lessons, adults have plenty of options too. Choose from private lessons, group workshops for all ability levels, or multi-day ski and ride camps throughout the winter.
Moms, if you're looking to boost your confidence in a supportive environment, check out the EdgeWise Women's Ski Camp (March 7-9, 2026) for three days of expert coaching and camaraderie designed to take your skills to the next level.
Exclusive Perks For Our Guests
Sun Valley doesn't just accommodate families—we make your entire vacation easier and more affordable.
The Kids Ski Free program means children 12 & under ski free with a skiing adult when you stay three or more nights in Sun Valley Resort lodging. Resort lodging guests also enjoy complimentary storage for skis, poles, and boards at all mountain base areas—simply drop off your gear and pick it up the next day instead of lugging it to and from the mountain.
After skiing, head to Sun Valley's outdoor heated pools and hot tubs. It's a simple way to unwind and let tired muscles recover while the kids burn off any remaining energy.
Family-Friendly Dining
Sun Valley's dining scene is perfect for families, offering a wide array of kid- and adult-friendly fare. Konditorei serves locally roasted coffee, European pastries, and hearty breakfasts to fuel up for your ski day. Village Station delivers comfort food in a casual atmosphere. The Chocolate Foundry makes any afternoon special with hot chocolate and sweet treats after a day of winter adventures.
Even elevated dining experiences like The Roundhouse, perched mid-mountain with spectacular alpine views, warmly welcome families for lunch and dinner.
Beyond The Slopes
Sun Valley offers plenty of family-friendly winter activities beyond just skiing and riding. Ice skate under the stars at the Outdoor Ice Rink. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered trails. Head indoors to the Sun Valley Lodge Bowling Alley & Arcade, or catch a movie at the Opera House.
Plan Your Family Ski Trip
Sun Valley Resort is built around what families actually need: terrain where everyone can ski at their level, instruction that makes learning enjoyable, guest perks that save money and hassle, and a resort culture that genuinely welcomes kids.
Dollar Mountain is the foundation—the place where beginners gain confidence and families ski together without anyone holding back or being left behind. Combined with everything else Sun Valley offers, it's why families return year after year.
Ready to create your own family ski tradition? Plan your Sun Valley trip today.
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