Top Winter Break Outdoor Activities for Kids in Vail
Winter break is the perfect time to escape to the mountains, and Vail offers an abundance of outdoor activities to keep kids entertained and engaged with the winter wonderland around them. Our guide features the best outdoor activities for children, combining adventure, fun, and a dose of fresh mountain air. With this guide, families can make the most of every snow-covered day in Vail.
1. Skiing and Snowboarding Lessons for Kids
Vail is world-renowned for its skiing, and it provides beginner-friendly slopes along with professional instruction geared specifically for children. The Vail Ski & Snowboard School offers classes that focus on building skills and confidence, ensuring safety and enjoyment on the slopes.
Benefits of Ski Lessons
- Instructors are trained to teach children in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand.
- Class sizes are kept small for more personalized attention.
- Kids can join age-appropriate groups, making it easy for them to make new friends and have a memorable experience.
Whether they’re beginners or already comfortable on skis, these lessons cater to all skill levels, making them a top choice for families visiting Vail.
2. Snow Tubing Adventures at Adventure Ridge
Adventure Ridge, located at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola, is an adrenaline-filled snow park that offers more than just skiing. Snow tubing is a hit among kids and provides thrills without requiring any prior experience.
What to Expect
- Multiple lanes of varying speeds allow kids of different ages and bravery levels to enjoy the excitement.
- Conveyor lifts make it easy for children to ride back up the hill after each thrilling slide.
- Tubing sessions last for about an hour, ensuring kids have plenty of time to enjoy the activity.
3. Ice Skating at Vail Square Ice Rink
The Vail Square Ice Rink offers a magical ice-skating experience that’s perfect for families. Located in Lionshead Village, this outdoor rink provides a scenic backdrop and cozy atmosphere for children to glide and twirl.
Why It’s a Must-Do
- Skate rentals are available, making it convenient for families who don’t bring their own.
- The rink is smaller, allowing kids to feel safe and comfortable.
- Parents can enjoy nearby cafes while watching their kids skate.
Skating is a low-impact activity that’s suitable for children of all ages, making it a wonderful choice for an afternoon in Vail.
4. Snowshoeing and Hiking for Young Explorers
For families seeking a more relaxed way to enjoy Vail’s winter landscape, snowshoeing and hiking trails offer a refreshing outdoor experience. Many trails are beginner-friendly, and gear rentals are available throughout the area.
Snowshoeing Highlights
- Trails like Gore Creek and Booth Falls offer stunning scenery, wildlife, and views of snow-covered forests.
- Guided tours provide a safe way to explore trails that might be unfamiliar to beginners.
- This activity is ideal for kids who enjoy a slower, immersive experience in nature.
Snowshoeing gives families a unique opportunity to discover the winter landscape, offering both exercise and the chance to spot native wildlife.
5. Dog Sledding Rides in the Rockies
Dog sledding combines adventure with an educational component, allowing kids to interact with and learn about the energetic sled dogs. Guided tours are available with experienced mushers who manage teams of well-trained dogs.
What Kids Will Love
- Being part of an exciting and historical winter sport.
- Riding alongside beautiful dogs and learning about their role in winter exploration.
- Safe, guided tours make it a family-friendly activity suitable for younger kids.
Dog sledding tours take families into secluded areas of the Rockies, providing a memorable experience that will stay with them long after the trip.
6. Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides for a Magical Evening
A horse-drawn sleigh ride through Vail’s snowy landscape is a wonderful way to wind down and enjoy the beauty of winter. Evening rides offer families a cozy, scenic experience complete with blankets and sometimes even hot cocoa.
Features of the Sleigh Ride
- The gentle pace allows kids to take in the snowy surroundings without any need for physical activity.
- Sleighs are comfortable, and the experience is appropriate for all ages.
- Parents and kids alike can appreciate the nostalgia of this winter activity.
7. Snowmobiling for Thrill-Seeking Families
Snowmobiling is ideal for families with older children and teens. The Backcountry Snowmobile Tours in Vail offer an adventure-packed experience through vast snow-covered landscapes and scenic mountain vistas.
Why Snowmobiling Stands Out
- Tours are led by experienced guides familiar with the terrain, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
- Families can choose between double and single snowmobiles based on comfort level.
- The adrenaline and speed make it a thrilling option that’s hard to match.
8. Outdoor Scavenger Hunt in Lionshead Village
For a break from fast-paced activities, an outdoor scavenger hunt provides a fun way to explore Lionshead Village. Vail’s public spaces are decorated with winter art and displays, making it an engaging challenge for young kids.
What Makes It Fun
- Kids get to explore and discover hidden spots while learning about Vail’s winter traditions.
- The scavenger hunt combines exercise and mental engagement, suitable for children of all ages.
- Many shops and cafes in the area offer winter-themed treats, perfect for rewarding young scavenger hunters.
With these activities, families can fully immerse themselves in the magical winter landscape of Vail, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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