Family Ski Days at Baldy Mountain Resort

This winter our family made the switch from Nordic skiing to Alpine skiing. Our hill of choice was Baldy Mountain Resort, a modest ski resort overlooking the South Okanagan Valley. Baldy is a gem of a ski resort. It’s the perfect place for families to learn to downhill ski and for snow seekers to fly through untouched powder. Their passes are very affordable, there are no crazy line-ups and most importantly the vibe is warm and welcoming. What’s not to love?

Every week we eagerly anticipate our weekend adventures at Baldy. After seven weeks of regular weekend trips were getting streamlined with packing all our gear, even our daily routine on the hill is falling into a more predictable rhythm. We’ve also been fortunate to find a lovely little log cabin to rent for the next few months. Having a home base on the hill definitely has its perks and now that we’ve experienced it I’m not sure if we could go back.

As for the skiing, I am happy to report that we’ve all found our ski legs. My kids have been learning so much in Ski School and through the Mount Baldy Alpine Club. I took a couple lessons too so that I could learn to fearlessly rip down the hill (that is: keep up with my kids!). Our pizzas (snow-plows) are looking more like french fries (parallel skis) and our days of tumbling off the ski lift in one big heap are long gone. Now we glide off the lift all synchronized and awesome (oh ya!). Even our youngest has become more confident going up and down the Magic Carpet on his own.

Our family has really taken to downhill skiing. Sure, there are moments of frustration and tears. Learning new skills can be tough, and there is much to learn! But downhill skiing has been so much fun for the whole family, more fun than I could have ever anticipated. I dare say we won’t be returning to cross-country skiing anytime soon, at least not fully.

If you’ve been thinking about taking your kids downhill skiing, I encourage you to go for it! The fresh air, gorgeous views, and snow will not disappoint and you’ll make some lovely memories along the way. And if you’re looking for a family friendly ski hill in the Okanagan then check out Baldy Mountain Resort. We’ll see you there!