SPRING SKIING
While the snow conditions have been fantastic this winter, tourism at mountain resorts has been hit hard by the recession. Many are trying to salvage the season by offering everything from free lift tickets to extra nights, so visit sites like Ski.com and Kayak.com for family-friendly bargains, and inquire about last-minute deals before booking. Note: If you reserved earlier at a higher rate, try to negotiate for the package currently on offer.
Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Lakes, California
This relatively hidden gem is now served by Horizon Air, which means you no longer have to drive five or more hours from L.A. to enjoy some of the most varied, spectacular skiing and snowboarding on the planet. Ask about Lift & Lodging packages, and stay at the centrally located Village Lodge, where you're minutes from the gondola and kids 6 and under always ski free. Fuel up on massive stacks of pancakes at the Stove (644 Old Mammoth Road, 760-934-2821) and then let kids shred in Adventure Zones and "mini" terrain parks. A sled tour through the Sierra Mountains with Mammoth Dog Teams is a must. (800-626-6684)
Snowbird
Snowbird, Utah
It's definitely not Aspen (no furry boots or Prada stores here), and that's exactly why families and low-key locals love this mountain and its understated neighbor, Alta. Located in the stunningly beautiful Wasatch Mountains, "the Bird" is just 29 miles from the kid-friendly Salt Lake City airport (the expedited security lines for families and the play areas are pluses). It's hard to beat the avalanche-proof Cliff Lodge & Spa with its on-site ski instruction, massive outdoor pool, and basement game room, plus sweeping canyon views from the Aerie Lounge & Sushi Bar. Current offers include Ski Free, from $135 per day (based on double occupancy with two lift tickets included). For more charm, head one mile up the road to skiers-only Alta, where the homey Alta Lodge offers a kids' program, and guests 18 and under stay free in April (800-232-9542).
Okemo
Ludlow, Vermont
This family-owned-and-operated mountain is just down the road from the sprawling Killington Resort and offers excellent terrain on a smaller scale. Book a Ski & Stay package (802-786-5366) and request slope-side accommodations (802-228-4041). Check out the nearby Woodstock Inn & Resort (800-448-7900), where kids can learn to snowboard at the small-but-special Suicide Six, cross-country ski, or explore quaint covered bridges. Don't miss the hearth-baked pizzas at the Prince & the Pauper, cozying up by the inn's enormous fire, or watching spectacular glass-blowing at Simon Pearce (1760 Quechee Main Street in the Historic Mill, Queechee, 802-295-1470).
Honorable Mentions
West Coast:
Northstar-at-Tahoe, California
Grand Targhee, Wyoming
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Whistler-Blackcomb, British Columbia
East Coast:
Smuggler's Notch, Vermont
Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
Sugarloaf, Maine
Mont Tremblant, Quebec
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