I was not paid or compensated in any way for this post. All opinions are my own and based on my personal experience.
Updated for the 2025–2026 Season
Before we had kids, my husband and I were those people – wake up early on the weekends, car packed, and head up I-70 to chase fresh powder. Once our daughter was old enough to try skiing, we quickly realized that getting kids on the slopes requires a lot more effort, and it can also feel like you need to take out a second mortgage. After years of trial and error while introducing both of our kids to skiing, I’m happy to report: you can absolutely find affordable ways to ski with kids in Colorado – as long as you plan ahead.
If you wait until the snow starts falling to look into ski passes, you’ll miss out on some of the best offers. So whether you’re a local family who skis a few times a season or you’re visiting from out of town and want to give your kids a taste of the slopes, here are my top tips for finding the best ski deals in Colorado with kids.
Take Advantage of “Kids Ski Free” Programs
Ski resorts want to hook kids early, and many offer great incentives to get families on the mountain. If your kids are under 5, skiing is free at Colorado’s top resorts (be sure to confirm in advance). But even older kids can ski for free or at a steep discount – if you know where to look.
Single Mountain Passes
Copper Mountain
Copper Mountain continues to offer one of the best deals around: for every adult season pass purchased, you get a free season pass for kids 15 and under. Not ready to commit to a full season? The Copper 4-Pack is a great option – purchase four ski tickets at a discounted rate, with no blackout dates (yes, even holidays!). Even better, the 4-Pack is available for all ages, not just kids. Learn more about these options on their website.
HOT TIP: Buy your Copper 4-Pack by Sept. 9, 2025 and get a fifth day FREE!
Keystone
Book two or more nights of lodging through Keystone’s website and kids 12 and under ski free – plus you get an extra free ski day for each additional night. No blackout dates, and it’s available all season long.
Keystone is also part of the Epic SchoolKids (more on that below), but if you are looking for additional days on the mountain or skiing during restricted dates, this might be a good option to extend your ski days.
Steamboat Ski Resort
Steamboat’s Kids Ski Free and Grandkids Ski Free programs let kids 12 and under ski free when a parent or grandparent buys a 5+ day adult lift ticket. Bonus: kids also get free rentals for the same number of days. Check their website for full details and restrictions.
Loveland & Winter Park
Both resorts offer free lift tickets with lesson packages (more on that below), which is a great way to combine learning and savings.
Multi-Mountain Passes for Kids
If you want flexibility to explore different resorts, these passes offer your best discounts for kids. Just remember: you must register early—these deals disappear once the season starts.
CSCUSA Kids Ski Passport
What is it?
The Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) Ski Passport gives kids in Kindergarten through 6th grade four days of skiing at a discounted rate at each of 19 Colorado resorts including Copper, Steamboat, Winter Park, Aspen, and more.
- K–2nd grade: $67; 3rd–6th grade: $72
- Available to all kids, not just Colorado residents
- Registration runs August through January
- Must submit a photo of your child/children and proof of age
- Blackout dates apply
Who should get it?
Any family with kids under 12 planning to ski at one or more of the member resorts. The pass also comes with two free days of ski rentals, making it one of the best values out there.
For frequent skiers planning to purchase the Ikon Pass, the kids pass provides access to the same resorts, but keep in mind your kids will only be able to ski four times at each resort.
For people skiing a limited number of days, there is also a Gems Teen Pass and a Gems Parent Pass available for purchase, so this can be an affordable way for the entire family to ski. These passes don’t include all of the resorts on the kids passport, so be sure to check the details before purchasing.
To get started, create an account online.
Epic SchoolKids Colorado Pass
What is it?
The Epic SchoolKids Colorado Pass is a free pass for Kindergarten through 5th graders, offering four days of skiing at each of these resorts: Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Crested Butte.
- Includes one free first-timer lesson and rental package
- Must register in person at Epic Mountain Gear with proof of grade
- Registration opens in spring and closes in fall
- Also available in Utah and Whistler Blackcomb
- Blackout dates apply
Who should get it?
Anyone with kids under 12 planning to ski at Epic resorts who are enrolled in a Colorado school. It’s a no-brainer if you’re already buying any Epic Pass for yourself or planning a trip to one of these mountains.
To enroll for the first time, register online for an appointment at one of the eligible store locations of Epic Mountain Gear.
Should I Buy a Single-Day Pass or a Season Pass?
If you’re wondering whether a season pass is worth it or if you should stick to single-day tickets, here’s the short answer: season and multi-day passes almost always offer better value, even if you only plan to ski a few days.
Many passes come with perks like Buddy Passes (discounted single-day tickets for friends and family), plus lodging and lesson discounts – especially helpful for visitors planning a weeklong trip. The key is to plan ahead. Resorts often offer renewal deals in the spring and special pricing around Labor Day. If you wait until the season starts, expect to pay a premium.
Read my comparison of the most popular ski passes in Colorado.
What Are the Best Options for Ski Lessons and Rentals?
Ski lessons can be pricey, but many resorts bundle them with rentals to make it more affordable. Here are some of the best options:
- Epic SchoolKids Pass and the CSCUSA Kids Ski Passport both include free lessons and rentals for first-time skiers.
- Loveland’s 3-Class Pass offers a great deal on lessons and gives you access to a discounted season pass once you complete the program—available for both kids and adults.
- Winter Park gives you a free lift ticket when you book a lesson.
- For gear, Christy Sports offers season-long rentals, which can be a smart option if you plan to ski multiple times.
- Epic Gear Junior Trade Program lets you buy used gear and trade it in as your child grows – great for families who ski regularly.
More Ways to Save Money Skiing with Kids
Here are a few more tips to stretch your ski budget:
- Look for family ski packages and promotions. Resorts often offer bundled deals, especially if you book early.
- Consider mid-week skiing. Some resorts like Winter Park offer special pricing and it’s less crowded, traffic is lighter, and the overall experience is more relaxed.
- Some ski passes include summer lift access, so if you plan to visit the mountains in the summer it might be worth your while to purchase a pass rather than a lift ticket.
- Check out gear swaps and used gear sales to find quality ski gear at an affordable price. These typically happen in the fall and spring, before and after ski season.
Tips for Skiing with Kids for the First Time
Some kids take to skiing right away. Others? Not so much. Here are a few ways to set your child up for success:
- Dress for the weather. Not too cold, not too hot. Hand and foot warmers can be lifesavers on frigid days. Don’t skimp on gloves and warm socks.
- Try on gear before you go. Make sure boots fit and skis are properly mounted before you hit the mountain.
- Wear a helmet. Skiing can be dangerous and safety is essential.
- Eat a good breakfast. Even if your kids aren’t big morning eaters, a full stomach helps them stay energized.
- Take breaks. Skiing is hard work, especially for little legs. If your child is tired or frustrated, call it a day and try again later.
- Start with a lesson. Even if you’re a seasoned skier, it’s often easier (and more fun) to let a pro teach your kids.
- Be consistent. The more often your kids ski, the faster they’ll learn. One day a year won’t cut it if you want real progress.
Final Thoughts
If you’re introducing your child to skiing or snowboarding, the Epic SchoolKids Pass or CSCUSA Kids Ski Passport are hands-down the best places to start. They include free lessons and rentals, and they’re available to Colorado residents and visitors alike.
As a Colorado local, I never skipped registering for the Epic SchoolKids Pass when my kids were under 12. Even if you don’t have firm ski plans, it’s worth having the option. To make the most of it, consider the Keystone Plus Pass for the adults – for under $450, you get unlimited skiing at Keystone, five days at Crested Butte, and unlimited Breckenridge access after April 1.
Want to get your child comfortable before heading to the mountain? Snobahn (with two Colorado locations) offers indoor ski lessons that focus on fundamentals without the hassle of weather or travel. My son took lessons there and picked up skiing much faster than my daughter did!
While skiing with kids is a luxury, with a little planning and the right passes, you can make it more affordable for the whole family. Whether you’re a local looking to hit the slopes a few times or a visitor hoping to introduce your kids to skiing, these programs can help you save big.
Have a favorite deal or tip I missed? Let me know—I’m always updating this guide!
Not sure which resorts are the best for beginners? I’ve got you covered! Send me a message and I’ll send you my guide to Colorado ski resorts!
