Local parents share some of the coolest places around Columbus for winter family fun. Whether you're a family of experienced skiers, or you're looking to try out a new sport, we've got you covered with great Columbus-area ski resorts. Use our interactive map to find the best ski resort near you. And if we're missing your family's favorite place to hit the slopes, please add it below to share it with other Columbus-area families!
If you're looking for even more winter family fun, don't miss our list of the best sledding or snow tubing spots around Columbus.
Mad River Mountain
Full-day lift tickets start at $49/adult, $39/child
Tubing is $25/person
Must be at least 42" to tube
Katie G.: Mad River Mountain is known as Ohio's largest winter resort. Located in central Ohio, there are 20 trails and 12 lifts to the top of the 1400+ foot mountain. With an expansive snow making system, you'll often find snow. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are available to people of all ages and abilities and rentals are available on site. Warm up in the lodge and enjoy a snack or lunch in the cafeteria or Mad River Loft Bar and Grill. AvalancheTubing Park has 10 lanes stretching 1000 feet.
Snow Trails
Katie G.: Spend the day at Snow Trails where you and the family can enjoy skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. This family-run resort is located in Mansfield, and offers fresh and man-made snow on the slopes. There are several trails available for all skill levels. The resort features 4 triple chairlifts, 2 double chairlifts, 2 ski conveyor carpet lifts, 1 tubing conveyor carpet, and a terrain-based learning area perfect for beginners. Lessons are available for all skill levels and equipment can be rented at the resort. Take a break and visit one of the several dining options for a snack or drink.
Boston Mills & Brandywine
Katie G.: Boston Mills and Brandywine are two ski resorts located minutes from each other just South of Cleveland. There are 18 trails and 15 lifts combined at both resorts offering plenty of slopes perfect for every skier. Boston Mills and Brandywine serve skiers and snowboarders of all ages and levels of expertise. Each resort has at least one terrain park. Lessons, equipment rentals, changing areas and lockers are available. Take a family break at the lodge for a nice warm bowl of soup, pizza, soda or other refreshments.
Perfect North Slopes
Katie G.: Located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, Perfect North Slopes offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Trails at Perfect North range from beginner to difficult and terrain parks allow skiers to perfect their tricks. Equipment rentals are offered on site and lessons are available for skiers (ages 4+). The main lodge offers food and drinks and a ski shop to stock up on the latest ski gear.
Alpine Valley
Katie G.: Located in Northeast Ohio, along the Ohio Snowbelt, Alpine Valley is a skier's dream resort with over 120 inches of fresh snow on average each year. They offer skiing, snowboarding and polar blast snow tubing. Beginners through advanced skiers can hit one of the 9 trails at Alpine Valley. Lessons, equipment rentals, changing areas and lockers are available at the lodge. Grab a bite to eat, a warm beverage or just take a break by the fire after you hit the slopes.
Primary photo: Lex Valishvili on Unsplash
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