a family-friendly atmosphere and a great deal. So, when the magazine's editors wanted to find out about top family ski areas, they knew who to ask--and got a small avalanche of recommendations. As suspected, many of the readers favor lesser-known areas offering short lift lines and affordable tickets. And they'd rather have a good ski school and a cheerful staff than black diamond runs and four-star amenities. So, if you're thinking of hitting the slopes, the Whaleback Ski Area in New Hampshire provides great opportunities for family together time.
WHALEBACK SKI AREA
ENFIELD, NEW HAMPSHIRE: Although it had been nearly 20 years
since Anne Lovejoy had skied as a college student, she and her husband, Andy, decided to take their three kids on a ski vacation last winter. After just a few days at the small New Hampshire mountain, the Madison, Connecticut, family recalls, "Our love affair with snow, skiing and Whaleback had begun." By the end of the season (and after a few trips back to the resort), three-year-old Charlie, five-year-old Oliver and nine-year-old Emily were comfortable on skis, and the whole family was on a first-name basis with the staff. Anne reports that she feels at ease at the resort because every trail ends at the base lodge, so she gets to see her kids every 15 minutes--even when they ski different runs. Weekend lift tickets are $29 for adults, $25 for kids ages 14 to 17, $21 for kids ages six to 13 and free for kids ages five and under. Call 603-448-1489 or click here for more information.
Cathering McGrady is a freelance writer in Columbia, SC.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated July 2005.
