A family ski trip is the kind of holiday that feels both active and indulgent, time together learning (or honing) a skill gives families a sense of shared adventure that is hard to match elsewhere. Ski resorts are generally easy to navigate, lessons are structured and safe, and kids gain confidence & build resilience each day on the snow. Many resorts offer ski-in, ski-out access so mornings are simple and stress-free with little ones.

After a day on the slopes you can settle into hot pools, enjoy fireside hot choccies, dining, or explore the village.

Many travellers describe a snow holiday as the perfect mix of outdoors, relaxation and luxury comforts. It is a type of trip where families reconnect, create standout memories and enjoy the pleasure of trying something new together.

Now that you have decided on a Family snow holiday, you are probably wondering which ski resorts are best for families? Here are just a few of the most popular ski resorts for Australian Families. These resorts are loved due to lesson quality, terrain design, snow reliability and easy resort navigation.

Japan offers exceptional snow quality, purpose-built family-friendly resorts and highly rated ski schools.
⦁ Naeba: Ideal for families wanting convenience, gentle beginner areas and indoor attractions such as the Naeba Prince entertainment facilities.
⦁ Tomamu: A favourite for families who want modern hotels, huge kids' snow parks, a real ice village and an indoor wave pool for no snow days. Tomamu has the perfect blend of dining, winter activities and powder.
⦁ Appi Kogen: Known for its wide groomers, reliable snow and resort-style ski-in, ski-out access. Appi is ideal for skiers who prefer a quieter resort.
⦁ Niseko: With four interlinked ski areas, plenty of powder and even more dining, Niseko has 'something for everyone' in all areas. With Ski-in, ski out available, you can choose apartments, resort or hotel style accommodation to suit any dynamic or price point.

Canada is popular for its long season, excellent childcare services and high-standard ski schools, as well as many resorts having "Kids Ski Free" offers.
⦁ Banff & Lake Louise, Alberta: Three resorts on one lift pas plus an Earlybird Kids Ski Free offer, giving families variety and plenty of gentle terrain. Plenty of winter activities suitable for families.
⦁ Sun Peaks, British Columbia: A purpose-built village with ski-in, ski-out convenience and quiet, confidence-building slopes. Kids Ski Free Earlybird offer.
⦁ Whistler, British Columbia: A world-class destination for families who want premium experiences, varied terrain and outstanding kids programs, which are the ultimate way to progress your kids ski ability.
⦁ Panorama, British Columbia: Ski-in, ski-out accommodation options including slope side hot pools, dedicated learning area & plenty of more advanced terrain for parents. Pano have incredible value earlybird offers (up to 50% Off), including Kids Ski Free, making it a great option for families.

The United States have plenty of resorts to choose from, many are easily added to a larger US itinerary!
⦁ Aspen Snowmass, Colorado. Four mountains covered by one lift pass, extensive terrain for every ability and top tier childcare services. In 2025 Aspen also included a kids ski free promotion, making it a great choice for families who enjoy luxury and variety.
⦁ Vail Ski Resort, Colorado: Extensive terrain, including an excellent ski school and beginners areas. Vail is a very walkable, pedestrian friendly set up, with a variety of accommodation options in both Vail and Lionshead. There is plenty to explore off the slopes, including lots of shopping and dining.
⦁ Mammoth Mountain, California: Easily accessible from LA, Mammoth has decent terrain, excellent ski school and plenty of family-friendly winter activities.

New Zealand is great for a close-to-home ski trip, and perfect for shorter school holiday trips.
⦁ Queenstown: Great for mixed ability families with Coronet Peak and The Remarkables offering broad groomers and excellent beginner zones, and with Cardrona only a short drive away offers even more terrian.
⦁ Wanaka: Cardrona is widely considered one of the most family-friendly resorts in New Zealand thanks to its layout, dining options, terrain parks and relaxed atmosphere.

Decide what is important to you (and your family)!

Terrian: What level or terrain does you family need? If it's your first time, choose a resort with genuine beginner terrain! Look for resorts with wide, gentle learning slopes close to the village. The right terrain reduces chance of injury, and helps build confidence faster.

Book lessons in advance: Ski schools book out months ahead, especially during Australian and New Zealand holidays. Pre-booking ensures your children start at the right level and progress smoothly.

Ski-in, ski-out accommodation: Families appreciate the convenience of walking straight onto the snow. It cuts down on daily logistics and leaves more time for skiing and relaxing. Do you want the ease of ski-in ski-out access, or are you happy to save on location and maybe spend less and walk a little or use shuttles?

Check snow reliability for your travel month: Japan and Canada tend to offer peak conditions from late December to mid March. New Zealand peaks from late July to early September, but can vary in early or late season.

Layer your clothing: Temperatures vary throughout the day. Focus on thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, neck warmers and good gloves rather than bulky jackets.

Consider the evenings: Not all resorts are built equal when it comes to night time activities! Do you want fireworks and live music into the night, or a hot chocolate by the fire and early to bed.

Allow rest days: Ski holidays can be energetic. A midweek rest day helps avoid fatigue and makes lessons more effective. Choose destinations with hot springs, tubing, snow play, indoor waterparks or cultural attractions. This makes rest days enjoyable for kids and adults.

What is the best age for kids to start skiing? 
Most resorts accept children from three years for group lessons. Some offer private lessons for younger children.

Which ski destinations are easiest for beginners?
Tomamu, Sun Peaks, Banff, Naeba, Cardrona and Appi Kogen are among the easiest for families learning to ski due to gentle gradient terrain and clear resort layouts.

When should Australians book a family ski holiday?
Six to ten months in advance is ideal, especially during school holidays. Ski-in, ski-out rooms and popular lesson times fill quickly.

Is Japan or Canada better for first-time family skiing?
Both suit beginners! Japan is often chosen for its soft, dry snow, shorter travel time and excellent value. Canada offers a longer season, larger resorts and high-quality instruction and all the quintessential winter activities. It’s worth comparing both to see which better suits your family's needs!

What is the best month for family ski travel?
January to March for Japan. December to March for Canada and the USA. Late July to early September for New Zealand.

Are ski holidays good for non-skiers?
Yes. Resorts often include hot pools, snow tubing, scenic gondola rides, spa experiences, wildlife tours, shopping and dining. Tomamu, Whistler and Aspen are particularly good for mixed ability groups.

A family ski holiday is a memorable blend of adventure, comfort and shared experiences. Australians most often choose Japan, Canada, the USA and New Zealand for dependable snow, quality lessons and resorts that make life easy for parents. When planning your first trip, choose gentle terrain, book lessons early and consider ski-in ski-out accommodation. Add in non-ski activities, and the whole family will enjoy a rewarding winter escape.

Image Credits: Image 1: Tomas Cohen © Vail Resorts. Image 2: Hoshino Resorts TOMAMU, Ice skating. Image 3: Sisters in Sun Peaks, Marni Shaw. Image 4: Aspen Snowmass Ski School, credit Sam Ferguson. Image 5: Tubing in Naeba. Image 6: Whistler Skiers, Tourism Whistler & Justa Jeskova. Image 7: Tubing in Banff, Shannon Martin. Image 8: Lesson in Niseko.