Skiing and snowboarding are lifelong sports the whole family can enjoy while staying fit. Several years ago the ski industry realized that to stay alive, it needed to embrace the younger generation. Opening the slopes to snowboarders and new "ski and play" instruction methods has ensured a new generation of enthusiasts and made it easier than ever for parents to get their kids onto the hills.

Many resorts with great learn-to-ski programs have enough terrain to keep intermediate and advanced skiers plenty busy. But families that have been on skis or boards for years will want a resort that offers more of a challenge. Those who feel they're up to the task should visit Copper Mountain, Colorado (For more great ski spots, see related links in upper left corner).

COPPER MOUNTAIN--DENVER, COLORADO

Copper Mountain, located 75 miles west of Denver, is a big resort with a soft spot for families. With beginner's trails to the west, expert trails to the east and intermediate runs in the middle, there's no fear of finding yourself suddenly out of your element or of speed demons terrorizing your trail. And since the trails funnel down into two compact villages, kids won't feel overwhelmed. Copper's pricing is made a bit more affordable by stretching the kids' cutoff from age 12 to age 14, and all kids five and under ski and stay free. Call 800-458-8386 for all the details.



Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.