Winter Park has officially been crowned the most family-friendly ski resort in North America, according to the latest OnTheSnow Visitors' Choice Awards for the 2025-26 season. Based on feedback from thousands of skiers and snowboarders who utilize the OnTheSnow platform, the resort earned its top ranking by balancing high-quality terrain with a robust menu of off-slope programming.
According to author Spencer Spellman, the rankings are derived from user reviews and ratings across several categories, including terrain variety, après-ski atmosphere, and overall family appeal. Visitors consistently highlighted the resort's ability to cater to multiple skill levels, making it a reliable destination for multi-generational travel.
Why Families Choose Winter Park
The resort’s commitment to non-skiing activities appears to be a major driver of its popularity. Families visiting the resort can take advantage of various unique experiences, such as:
- GlowNight snow tubing
- Ice skating
- Guided nature snowshoe tours
- Snowcat and s’mores excursions
Beyond the activities, the resort offers a free gondola service that transports families to a mountaintop lodge. This venue serves as a hub for live music, dining, and scenic views, providing a convenient way to socialize after the lifts close.
Educational Programs
A cornerstone of the resort's family appeal is its ski and ride school. OnTheSnow users noted that the school offers a wide range of instructional formats, including private lessons, multi-week programs, and specialized skills clinics, allowing children and adults to progress at their own pace.
What Visitors Are Saying
User feedback provided to OnTheSnow underscores long-term loyalty to the resort. One reviewer, Traci, noted that her children learned to ski at the resort and continue to return after two decades. Another user, Kevin, pointed to the "great value and variety" as the primary reasons his family selects the resort for their annual winter vacations.
2025-26 Visitors’ Choice Award Highlights
The OnTheSnow awards recognized several other resorts across North America for their specific strengths:
- Best Overall Resort: Banff Sunshine
- Best All-Mountain Terrain: Jackson Hole
- Best Terrain Park: Copper Mountain
- Best Après-Ski: Telluride
- Best Ski Area for Beginners: Purgatory
- Best Small Ski Area: Wolf Creek
OnTheSnow continues to collect data from the skiing community and encourages visitors to submit reviews regarding their recent mountain experiences to help shape future rankings.
