Photos by Ben Duke.

Keep kids entertained on vacation with ski lessons, ice skating and family-friendly mountainside events. When the adults are zipping down Mount Werner’s double black diamonds, kids of all ages can enjoy a fun-filled day on the slopes in group lessons with professional instructors. Sign up never-evers and novices for beginner group ski lessons.The groups are separated by age and accommodate children from three to 17 years old. Group lessons are full day from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and both rental gear (if needed) and lift tickets must be purchased, along with the cost of the lesson. If your kiddo is looking for one-on-one instruction to improve their skiing skills, invest in a private lesson ranging from 1 1/2 hours for children aged 2-4, or up to seven hours for kids over the age of 7. For more information and to book a lesson, visit www.steamboat.com.

Take a spin on Skeeter’s Ice Rink, named for local Olympian Skeeter Werner (Mount Werner is named for her brother, Buddy). Bring your own skates or rent either hockey or figure skates on site. Rentals are first come, first serve. Afterwards, warm up with hot chocolate from Timber & Torch.

 Family-friendly events take place at the base of the mountain all winter long. Kick off 2025 with the Light Up Snow Cat Parade featuring synchronized skiers holding lit torches. Stay until the end to catch a dazzling firework show, ringing in the new year Steamboat-style. On Sunday, Jan. 19, watch the Cowboy Up drone show, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Cowboy Downhill, which takes place the next day, Monday, Jan. 20. It’s a fun-filled event featuring over 100 professional cowboys who try their hand at a downhill slalom course, go over a jump, lasso a person, saddle a horse and cross the finish line. On Saturday, Feb. 15, join Light Up The Night as hot air balloons glow at the base of the mountain. The event ends with fireworks and a torchlight parade.