A family ski vacation is often a special tradition filled with warm memories for kids, parents and grandparents alike. There’s nothing quite like flying down the perfectly groomed runs of your favorite resort to feel like a kid again yourself, and no experience more heart-warming than to see the excitement of little ones who conquer their first real green run.

Planning family ski vacation, however, can often be difficult, from finding the right lodging and coordinating ski school to simply keeping everyone happy and entertained. These tips can help you plan a seamless and hassle-free family ski vacation for everyone involved — from your 72-year-old parents to your 2-year-old toddler:

1. Sign up for ski school early. Ski school sells out, particularly during popular times. Since most resorts require that you make ski school arrangements personally (rather than through a concierge), it’s a good idea to sign up as soon as you have chosen your resort. Before you enroll, ask about the class size, instructor experience and what other activities they might participate in. Learn more about ski school in the Park City area at: Deer Valley Resort | Park City Mountain Resort | Canyons Resort

2. Choose a professionally managed vacation rental.   Of course we’re biased on this, but we have sound reasoning. When you rent through VRBO or another DIY rental venue, your lodging doesn’t have to meet any standards for cleanliness or safety. With a professionally managed rental company, you know your sheets have been industrially cleaned, safety inspections have been completed, and you have a point of contact in case something goes wrong — even if it’s just trouble with your TV remote. When you’re on a family ski vacation with the whole gang, we think the peace of mind is worth it.

3. Utilize your private concierge. If your accommodations include a private concierge, your entire vacation is instantly more seamless. From making dinner reservations to stocking your kitchen before you arrive, a concierge can take care of the little things so you have more time to relax with your family. When booking your accommodations, ask about the extra services that come with your lodging. You might be surprised by what you can cross off your family ski vacation “to do” list.

4. Choose a comfortable “home base.” When traveling with a large group of all ages, chances are good that not everyone will feel like hitting the slopes everyday, and at some point your kids, your parents and even you will feel the need to have a moment alone. Choosing accommodations that offer space and privacy will keep even the closest family members from stepping on each other’s toes. Private homes with full kitchens, game rooms, movie libraries and WiFi access will ensure that anyone who feels like staying home from the slopes or a dinner out with the family will still be comfortable and entertained. Here are a few recommended lodging options at each of Park City’s ski resort:

Deer Valley Resort

The Laughing Ranch at 6434 Silver Lake

Two king master suites, five total bedrooms and a “Kids Only” play room make The Laughing Ranch at Deer Valley Resort a great choice for a family ski vacation. Ski-out access is for advanced skiers only, but complimentary shuttle service takes kids and less experienced skiers directly to the base for ski school or to Silver Lake Village for beginner and intermediate runs. More family-friendly Deer Valley lodging.

Park City Mountain Resort

435 Park Ave. - Old Town Park City

This 4-bedroom Park Ave. home sleeps 14 people and features a relaxing den, hot tub, kids’ bunk room and flat-screen TVs throughout. Located a block from the center of town, 435 Park Ave is perfectly situated to allow older kids the freedom to explore Main Street without needing a vehicle. More lodging near Main Street Park City.

Canyons Resort

This 6-bedroom villa features two master suites and sleeps 16 people. Guests enjoy a hot tub, theater with stadium recliner seating and a spacious den with a wet bar and pool table. A rental car is recommended for this home, although complimentary shuttle service is available. More lodging at Canyons Resort.

2350 Red Pine Villa at Canyons Resort

For more advice on planning a family ski vacation to Park City and what accommodations will best fit your needs, call 1-877-773-1117 or e-mail reservations@resortswest.com.

Planning a Park City ski trip with the guys doesn’t have to mean sub-par accommodations. Not that the tiny condo you rented in college doesn’t carry a certain amount of nostalgia, but  now that you can afford to do it right, it might be time to nix the pull-out sofa and find Park City lodging where you and everyone else in your group can enjoy space and privacy. This year, take advantage of the time you spend with friends on the slopes by renting a truly mancation-worthy mountain home, complete with  a hot tub, pool table and easy access to skiing or snowboarding.  

These spectacular Park City vacation rentals and lodge condos will ensure that your trip is just as epic off the slopes as on: 

9 Colony

A basketball court, theater and game room? Yes, really. This home does have it all, including ski-in/ski-out access.

Ski or snowboard access to Canyons Resort is less than 100 yards from your door at this 17,000 square-foot alpine residence. Relax in the theater, play a game of ping-pong, or take advantage of the indoor basketball court. This is the ultimate Canyons vacation rental.

27 Belle Arbor Home 

A luxurious home with a pool table, hot tub and ski access to Deer Valley Resort across the street.

This 5-bedroom ski home features a spacious den with a pool table and wet bar, a private outdoor hot tub with scenic mountain views and access to Deer Valley’s Silver Dollar ski run right across the street.

544 Rossi Hill

Enjoy easy access to both Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort from this centrally located townhome. Main Street is less than half a mile away.

 The restaurants, bars and entertainment venues on Park City’s Main Street are less than half a mile from this townhome on Deer Valley Drive. This home is also centrally located less than five minutes by bus from both Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. Each of the three bedrooms features a private bath and TV.  Amenities also include an iPod docking station and, of course, a private hot tub.

Black Bear Lodge

Rustic lodging in Silver Lake Village, complete with a private hot tub and easy access to the slopes.

 Walk to the slopes of Deer Valley Resort from these 2-bedroom slope-side condos, conveniently located in Silver Lake Village. You can also walk to fine dining restaurants and après-ski hot spots for a drink, including the new Cena Lounge. Black Bear Lodge condos feature rustic dècor, private hot tubs, balconies and access to the on-site fitness center.   

For more Park City lodging options, contact us at 1-877-773-1117 or reservations@resortswest.com.

All guests of Resorts West receieve daily housekeeping, complimentary shuttle service and private concierge service to arrange everything from stocking your kitchen upon arrival to arranging a day of heli-skiing.

These Deer Valley lodging options offer space, comfort and unique amenities for the perfect getaway with friends. Your private concierge with Resorts West can arrange spa treatments, yoga, ski rentals and other luxurious services for an unforgettable retreat.

10153 Deer Crest Villa

Private ski access, outdoor fire pits, spectacular views and luxurious suites for everyone in your group.

 The ultimate in luxury, this 8,000 square-foot Deer Valley vacation rental sits on a private ski trail in the gated community of Deer Crest. Featuring four king suites, including three with private fireplaces,  these accommodations are a splurge you’ll be glad you made. Relax in the private hot tub and sauna, grab a bottle from the wine room, enjoy a movie in the grand theater, or simply lounge in the den to catch up with fiends and take in the views.

The Grand Lodge

The newly constructed Grand Lodge features ski-in/ski-out access, sauna and fitness center.

The Grand Lodge is one of the newest properties at Deer Valley Resort, complete with hardwood floors, granite countertops, gas fireplaces and relaxing balconies. Soak in the oversized hot tub, lounge on the ski beach or take advantage of the state-of-the-art fitness center when you’re not catching the on-site chairlift right out your front door. After a day on the slopes, Resorts West’s complimentary shuttle service lets you enjoy a hassle-free night on Park City’s Main Street for fine dining and live entertainment.

33 Belle Arbor Home

Spacious bedroom suites, easy ski access and a hot tub with a view -- everything you need to enjoy a relaxing retreat!

8719 Paintbrush Home

This unique home is perfect for gals with a sense of adventure. A custom elevator, private hot tub and ski access out the back door make this home as convenient as it is comfortable.

This color home rests mountain-side at Deer Valley Resort’s Empire Pass area. Sleeping 12 guests comfortably, this 5-bedroom chalet is the perfect place for a reunion of friends, complete with spacious living areas and gourmet kitchen. Bright decor, a custom elevator, ski-in/ski-out access and a spacious hot tub make this home one you’ll want to call yours year after year. 

All guests of these homes receive complimentary shuttle service, daily housekeeping and private concierge service.  Contact Resorts West at 1-877-773-1117 or e-mail reservations@resortswest.com to learn more about services and accommodations offered.

An après dinner for two at a quiet slope-side restaurant, breathtaking scenery and a private balcony to soak it all in. What isn’t romantic about a ski vacation? Resorts West offers more than just Deer Valley accommodations to help you plan the perfect romantic escape. Our Private Concierge staff can have your favorite bottle of wine and all your favorite foods waiting for you when you arrive; they can reserve dinner for two at a unique Park City restaurant and even arrange activities like sleigh rides, hot air ballooning or a scenic helicopter ride over the Wasatch mountains. These Deer Valley lodging options offer the best accommodations for romantic getaways:

Silver Strike Lodge

Ski-in/ski-out lodging, luxury accommodations and unparalleled service await you at this Deer Valley Lodge.

Enjoy the very finest in décor at the Silver Strike Lodge with private balconies, hardwood floors, plush bedding and luxurious jetted baths. The lodge offers a ski beach area with an outdoor fire pit, an oversized hot tub with waterfall and ski-in/ski-out access to Deer Valley Resort’s perfectly groomed runs. These luxury condos are tucked away in Empire Pass for breathtaking views and unparalleled privacy.  

5 Northside Home

Privacy, luxury and comfort define this exceptional Deer Valley home.

This slope-side home, nestled in Deer Valley Resort’s Empire Pass, offers a spacious master suite with a gas fireplace, beautiful home theater with recliner seating, and a relaxing private hot tub. Ski right out your back door and return to stunning accommodations with breathtaking views at this romantic private residence.

3127 Deer Crest Home

3127 Deer Crest features private ski-in/ski-out access and luxurious details

Ski-in/ski-out access to the private Pioche trail, a private hot tub, sauna, steam room and stunning views of the Jordanelle Reservoir make 3127 Deer Crest Home the perfect retreat for a romantic getaway. Tucked away in the gated Deer Crest community at Deer Valley Resort, this stunning home offers a relaxing, romantic oasis filled with unique amenities. Enjoy a movie in the theater, complete with ”love seat” sofas; play a lighthearted game of pool; relax in the sauna or simply lounge in the massive master suite. Resorts West’s private concierge service will ensure you won’t have to lift a finger.

To plan your Deer Valley getaway, contact a reservations agent at 1-877-773-1117 or e-mail reservations@resortswest.com. You can also view more Deer Valley lodging options online.

Watching your kids get their first taste on the ski hill is often a special experience, right up there with the hot cocoa moments and cozy nights watching the snow fall that often define family ski vacations.  Finding the right accommodations  can make all the difference when it comes to making your vacation seamless and easy, from having enough space to choosing a hassle-free location. These ski homes are great Deer Valley lodging options for families traveling with kids who want both comfort and convenience. Resorts West makes your vacation even easier by providing private concierge service, complimentary shuttles to ski school and daily housekeeping — for when you want to make s’mores in the kitchen.  

Black Diamond #121 - Snow Park  

The Black Diamond Lodge: literally slope-side.

Located right on Deer Valley Resort’s ”Wide West” beginner ski hill, this 3-bedroom Deer Valley condo offers ski-in/ski-out access for the whole family! Ski or walk right to ski school, ticketing offices, dining options and other amenities of Deer Valley’s base. The condo itself offers a kids’ bunk room, hot tub, Blu-Ray player and two king suites for the adults in your group. This condo sleeps 9 people.

Black Bear Lodge – Silver Lake

Black Bear Lodge at Silver Lake Village: Walk to lifts and dining.

This mountain lodge is an exceptional value for its convenient location at Silver Lake Village. Walk to the  lifts at Deer Valley Resort for access to a variety of terrain, including a mix of greens and blues, or take the Silver Lake Express to Deer Valley’s base for beginner hills and ski school. (A Resorts West shuttle can take you to the base for early morning classes.) The Black Bear Lodge features a heated outdoor swimming pool, cozy atmosphere and walking access to family-friendly dining.

12 Bellemont Home – Silver Lake

Ski right out your back door at 12 Bellemont in Deer Valley.

This 5-bedroom home sleeps 19 guests, making it a perfect option for families traveling together, particularly if the kids are a little older. Nestled on Deer Valley Resort’s Silver Dollar ski run, this beautiful home offers direct ski-in/ski-out access to a beginner-blue run that green skiers can feel confident in trying. Silver Dollar is a loop off the green Success run, so skiers end on Success! Advanced skiers will love easy access to the base and central lifts to all kinds of challenging terrain, including the double-black Daly Chutes. After a day on the mountain, 12 Bellemont welcomes guests with an entertainment room, pool table, wet bar, hot tub, and TVs in every bedroom.   

For additional properties or more advice on planning your family ski vacation, please contact Resorts West’s reservations team at 1-877-773-1117 or e-mail reservations@resortswest.com

With ski school open at Deer Valley Resort and the 2011-2012 season just around the corner,  now is the perfect time to secure lodging for a Christmas ski vcation in Park City.

Rustic charm and a convenient location at Silver Lake Village (not to mention perfectly groomed runs and short holiday lift lines) make Black Bear Lodge the perfect setting for an unforgettable family vacation — and that’s only the tip of the snow-covered iceberg. Here are 6 more reasons to make this mid-mountain retreat your family’s slope-side home away from home this Christmas:

1. Your holiday lasts longer. Located less than 45 minutes from Salt Lake International Airport, Black Bear Lodge accommodations allow you to enjoy more time on the slopes — and less time in a shuttle.

Airport to lift line: 45 minutes

Fully stocked and waiting for your arrival!

3. The “stocking stuffers” aren’t bad, either. If stunning views, cozy gas fireplaces and private hot tubs aren’t enough to make your holiday, Black Bear Lodge offers a heated swimming pool, fitness center and  inviting lobby. Resorts West adds daily housekeeping, concierge service and complimentary shuttle service throughout your stay for a seamless holiday vacation.

Pool and oversized hot tub heated year-round

4. A Chrismtas elf greets  you at your front door…Well, close enough. A private concierge greets you upon arrival so you can check in right at your condo. Your concierge will also show you how to operate the most important amenities, including TV remotes and hot tub jets.

Welcome to your check-in desk

5. Silver Lake Village is just as charming as the North Pole – without the jet lag. Walk to ski lifts; lounge at the Silver Lake ski beach; find something special at a European-style boutique; enjoy lunch at a gourmet restaurant, or simply sip a cocktail at one of many après hot spots.

Shop, dine or simply relax at the "ski beach"

 6. Park City is at your fingertips. Colored lights on snow-covered trees…carolers crooning in costume…candy shops churning out holiday confections…these are all reasons to experience Park City over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Resorts West’s complimentary shuttle service takes you from Black Bear Lodge to Main Street, located just three miles away, for fine dining, live family-friendly entertainment, shops, galleries and one magical experience.  

Main Street Park City is less than three miles away.

Resorts West offers the finest accommodations at Black Bear Lodge with personalized services for a seamless ski vacation. To reserve your holiday lodging, contact us at 1-877-773-1117 or reservations@resortswest.com

With another month to enjoy skiing in Park City, there’s plenty of time to plan a long weekend on the slopes. Consider these five reasons to grab your family or friends and hit the mountains for some spring powder:

1. Lodging Specials: Enjoy a 4th complimentary night when you stay three nights at select lodge condos and townhomes in Deer Valley and Park City. Choose from ski-in ski-out condos in Empire Pass, finely appointed Silver Lake properties and slope-side condos in Park City.

2. Free Lift Ticket: As long as you’re enjoying an extra day, why pay for lift tickets, too? The Park City Chamber offers a free lift ticket when you book three nights at select lodging in late spring.

3. Free Live Music: Enjoy live outdoor music at Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons  during aprés ski. Families can attend the Canyons’ outdoor concerts on Saturday afternoons, starting at 3 p.m., whether they skied at the resort or not. Music presented by the Silver Star Café also runs on Thursdays, starting at 2:30 p.m.

4. Winter Storms, Summer Sun: March is known for its snow storms, but warm weather and blue skies peek through for some of the best days of the year. With an average snowfall of 19.7 inches, March sets April up for spectacular spring skiing with warm days and great snow pack.

5. More to Do – Ski one day, play a round of golf the next. With Salt Lake in such close proximity to Park City, the opportunities to combine winter and summer activities — from road biking to fly-fishing to lounging on the ski beach – are endless.

Get a 4th Complimentary Night at:

Silver Star at Park City

Black Bear Lodge

Town Pointe Condos

Silver Strike Lodge

Call 1-877-773-1117 for details and additional properties!

Spring skiing enthusiasts looking for a final thrill on the slopes can now stay in luxury at select Deer Valley and Park City properties with a complimentary 4th night from Resorts West.

As Canyons Resort extended its ski season to April 17, Resorts West has extended its spring special, which includes a fourth free night at select condos for all stays of three nights or longer, to reservations with arrival dates from March 19 to the end of April. The special includes properties at the ski-in ski-out community of Silver Star at Park City, the luxurious slope-side Ironwood townhomes in Deer Valley, and select ski-in ski-out condos at Deer Valley’s Silver Strike Lodge and Grand Lodge. All condos and townhomes in the thriving hub of Silver Lake Village are included as well.

With more than three feet of fresh snow in the last week, Park City has experienced incredible March conditions so far, with even more snow expected in coming weeks. In addition to luxury lodging, Resorts West offers comprehensive services to ensure a seamless getaway, no matter how spontaneous your vacation. Enjoy concierge service, daily housekeeping and complimentary shuttle service.

Featured Spring Properties:

The 2011 FIS Freestyle World Cup returns to Deer Valley and Park City Mountain Resort next week with four days of flips, twists, moguls and contact competition. Julian Marley will perform at the opening ceremony on Feb. 2 in a live celebration on Park City’s lower Main Street. Ryan St. Onge, Emily Cook and Hannah Kearney are among returning Olympians who will compete.

Wednesday, February 2

Thursday, February 3

Friday, February 4

Saturday, February 5