Family Fame

Families flock here for hassle-free, hillside accommodation where little ones cruise right to their doorsteps. Night skiing, stunning hot pools on the slopes (for lodging guests) and a Disney-like daily array of children’s activities are big draws. Adults can also indulge in spa treatments, a one-day, introductory heli-ski trips for intermediate to advanced skiers or special lesson programs like “Chicks on Sticks.”

Top Runs

With 1152 ha (2,847 acres) of terrain and a vertical drop of 1,220 m (4,000 ft.), this resort offers 115 ski trails from long, groomed cruisers to “back country-style” expert runs and deep powder. Best for beginners (up to age seven): Campbell’s Canyon, Horseshoe or Triple Traverse across to Outrider & Boomerang. For intermediates (ages eight to 12): ski Rollercoaster and Old-Timer to the base, or detour to Little Dipper and the Sun Bird Chair. Blue runs in the Founder’s Ridge area are fun for first tracks on fresh snow. For keen teens (and experts): ski anything in Taynton Bowl with its former heli-ski terrain of chutes, bowls and glades, or check out the Extreme Dream Zone.

Family Eats

Photo by Ray Schnerch.

Affordable: slope-side chalets, townhouses and condos have kitchens where you can cook your own meals. Or, in the resort village, check out 50 burger combos at Jackpine Pub, including ones topped with macaroni and cheese, or even a brownie! Try cheesy delights at Mile High Pizza, or Carrick’s Italian fare. Splurge: après-ski fondue of cheese, meat and chocolate at Summit Hut on top of Panorama Mountain. Ski down by guided torchlight.

Ski School

The Panorama Snow School, new in 2011, offers lessons for all abilities and ages, privately or in groups.

Real Deals

Check out the “Sensational Family Package,” which can offer five nights accommodation, lift tickets, hot pools and free breakfast. Twice-daily shuttle buses to Calgary International Airport mean car rentals aren’t required.

Après-ski, Family-style

Choices are endless. Hot pool bingo, jewelry-making parties, a tobogganing and tubing areas, movie nights and chocolate fondue, snowshoeing at nearby Greywolf Nordic Centre, ice skating on Lake Windermere, karaoke and snowmobiling.

This month, WestJet flies to Calgary 79 times daily from 34 Canadian, U.S. and international cities.

Related links:

Ultimate Ski Guide Survey

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