As a family of surfers living in sunny Florida, we’re no strangers to early mornings, wetsuits, and riding waves together. But this year, my husband and I decided to trade the beach for the mountains and take our two young daughters, ages three and four, on our first-ever skiing and snowboarding adventure as a family.
Destination?
The stunning Park City, Utah, with its snow-covered peaks and cozy alpine charm.
Staying at the luxurious Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, we found ourselves in for an unforgettable family experience.
A Warm Welcome to Winter
Upon arriving at Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, we were welcomed by a friendly staff and a cozy, lodge-like atmosphere that immediately made us feel at home.
Our suite was spacious with views of the snow—a refreshing and exciting change from the oceanfront views we're accustomed to.
One of the standout features was the in-room gas fireplace, a perfect enhancement for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, while also providing an ideal space for drying all of our gear.
We avoided the hassle of off-site rentals by being professionally fitted for skis and snowboards right at the resort by Skis On The Run - a service we greatly appreciated!
Watching our daughters try on tiny ski boots was both adorable and hilarious, and their enthusiasm was infectious.
Westgate also provides a dedicated ski locker room to take care of your gear. This added convenience means you don't have to carry heavy equipment back to your room. The hotel, situated at the base of Canyons Village, offers an unparalleled ski-in/ski-out experience, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all guests.
🎿 Hitting the Slopes: Park City Resort 🎿
One notable aspect of Park City that distinguished our experience was the location of the bunny slopes.
Situated mid-mountain at an elevation of 8,000 feet, they are reached via a gondola ride which adds an element of adventure and anticipation to the journey.
The girls absolutely adored this scenic ascent up the mountain, taking in the stunning vistas and the crisp mountain air.
We were fortunate enough to capture their genuine reactions and expressions of joy!
The Ski School program at Park City Mountain was a perfect way for the girls to get started on the mountains. The Sweet Pea Magic Carpet, located at the summit of the Red Pine Gondola was a perfect playground for their first time skiing.
The girls were already carving and turning within the first hour of their lesson. It turns out that their surfing skills gave them a fantastic edge on the slopes. Catching waves helped them catch some serious ski vibes!
🎿 A Family Snow Day - Deer Valley Resort 🎿
On the second day, we embarked on a brief drive to Deer Valley Resort.
While the girls honed their skills with “pizza” stops and mini turns, my husband and I transitioned from snowboarding to skiing, as this resort exclusively caters to skiers.
Luana's instructor guided her down a beginner run aptly named "Candy Land," which was perfectly suited to her skill level. It was wonderful observing the girls experience the joy of "Surfing the Mountains" for the first time.
🎿 Utah's largest indoor/outdoor pool 🎿
After the slopes we warmed up our tired muscles. The Westgate Park City Resort & Spa boasts Utah's largest indoor/outdoor heated pool
The girls loved swimming beneath the screen that connects to the outdoor section of the pool. And did I mention the jacuzzis?! The outdoor jacuzzis are so toasty, making them ideal for relaxation on chilly winter days ❄️❄️
🎿 Sleigh ride @ Jordanelle State Park 🎿
The horse-drawn wagon rides at Jordanelle State Park provided an enchanting journey through one of the finest displays of Christmas lights in the region.
Thanks to @rockymountainoutfitters, we had an unforgettable friends-and-family experience that truly brought the Christmas spirit to life.
If you’re looking for a Winter Wonderland in Utah, this is an absolute must-see! ❄️🛷🎄
Restaurants Experienced During Our Stay:
Drafts Burger Bar
Edge Resturant
Dos Olas Cantina
Midway Mercantile
Escala Provisions Company
Riverhorse
Red Banjo Pizza
🎿 Reflections on the Journey 🎿
Our first ski trip as a family was more than just a vacation—it was a lesson in adaptability, patience, and finding joy in new experiences.
Watching our daughters’ confidence grow with each run down the hill was as rewarding as catching fun waves.
Park City proved to be the perfect destination for all skill levels, offering plenty of family-friendly activities, breathtaking scenery, and a welcoming atmosphere. The Westgate Resort added a touch of luxury and comfort that made the trip even more special.
Whether you’re beach dwellers like us or seasoned snow adventurers, a trip to Park City promises memories that will warm your heart, no matter how cold the weather!
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