Our family loves the outdoors. We have done many local day trips, but one we had yet to do was a trip to experience real snow. When I was younger, I was an avid skier and snowboarder. Skiing lets me share in the beauty and grandeur of the winter snow, and I was thrilled to experience it with my kids for the first time.
With such a close proximity to the L.A. area (only 1.5 hours away), Snow Valley is the most convenient resort to get to in the San Bernardino Mountains, located just 5 miles east of Running Springs on Highway 18. Having already done my research of other ski resorts, Snow Valley was the most family-oriented. For example, kids under 6 ski free and adult tickets are less expensive than some of the other nearby resorts!Â
Ski School: Children's Learning Center
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Iâm so glad we chose to have our kids complete ski school at the Childrenâs Learning Center. Not only did they get first rate instructors, who were also amazing skiers, but they really seemed to enjoy working with the kids. Our kids loved their instructors and the ski school area, which is just for the students, has a magic carpet which propels them up a very gentle slope. During the lesson, the students practiced skills like getting on and off the lifts, skiing using the âPizzaâ and âFrench fryâ method, and stopping without having the pressure of other skiers whizzing past them.
At the end of their lesson, they received a âReport Cardâ, with all the skills that they learned. So, when we return in the future (which I conclude will be very soon) we can look back and see what level they completed in ski school, and see what trails they have mastered and what lifts they are ready for!
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Snow Valley offers half day ski school 9:30am-noon/ 1:30pm-4pm, or full day ski school 9:30am-3pm, with lunch included.Â
Snow Valley prides itself on being more than just a ski resortâŚit is a family-friendly destination. Snow Valley offers activities for kids of all ages, and making sure they have an enjoyable experience. My kids also loved the snow play area, a long run ski hill for sledding, that includes an uphill lift to eliminate the tiring uphill climb for parents and kids!Â
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Take a look at this snow play area. What kid wouldnât think this was the bomb?
With a deep base of snow averaging 3 to 4 feet, all of the lifts were open when we went. I found that the entire mountain was fun and manageable, with enough terrain for beginners and a new area called The EDGEâ˘; Snow Valleyâs premier terrain park with features for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders. For the beginners, Rim⢠Progression Park is the place to be. Many flat boxes, rollers, small jumps and rails, set low to the ground for beginners, can be found on The Rim⢠Progression Park.
Although you would think I am used to everything being crowded in Southern California, I was pleased that the lift lines were not long. Snow sports are very popular this season, but the most we waited for a lift was about 10 minutes at the Thunder Mountain lift, and this was on a busy weekend. This lift serves most of the people in ski school as well and has a gentle terrain. I found that all of the other lifts rarely had lines, and I think this is due to the variety of lifts offered and the variety of terrain offered for all levels of snow enthusiasts.Â
Another reason why we love Snow Valley, is that it has a large parking lot. Youâll never have a problem finding parking, but I recommend arriving early. Traveling with kids, means carrying more gear- and with skiing, there is a lot of clothes and gear to carry. Since the parents end up carrying everything, plan accordingly and park as close as you can.
I could go on and on about our experience. It was truly one of the best day trips weâve ever taken. But these words from my kids on the way home summed it up best:
"This was the best day ever, Mom. I love skiing and canât wait to come back here. When can we come back?â
Yep, mission accomplished. My kids love skiing, and they fell fast asleep that night the minute their heads hit the pillow.
Disclaimer: I received complimentary tickets in exchange for the purpose of this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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SNOW VALLEY VALUES
Snow Valleyâs name is synonymous with value and we are focused on providing you the best winter resort experience in Southern California. Check out the Snow Valley Values below and enjoy the snow and the savings!
1-2-3-4 THEN RIDE SOME MORE
Earn a season pass after 4 lessons for ages 13+ with our 1-2-3-4 Â Then Ride Some More Program*
*Not Valid with lesson programs offered through the Childrenâs Learning Center.
SNOW VALLEY WINTER SAVINGS CARD
Earn a free lift ticket after the purchase of 4 lift tickets at regular price at any Snow Valley ticket window and enjoy other unique values for carholders with our Winter Savings Card Program.
DISCOUNT WEEKDAY LEARNING PACKAGE
Save $26 on learning packages from Monday-Friday
FAMILY FUN PACK
Looking for a great day on the slopes with your family at a fantastic price? Snow Valley offers a Family Fun Pack of 2 adult and 2 child (ages 7-12) lift tickets for $139*. Save up to $117 by choosing this special Snow Valley Value, which is only available online via advanced purchase. The Family Fun Pack is available any day except during holiday periods.
*Young Adult (ages 13-21) tickets may be substituted for adult tickets.
SKI & STAY SOIREE
Enjoy Up to 20% Savings with Southern California's Only AAA Four Diamond Skiing & Lodging Package with Lake Arrowhead Resort & Spaâs âSki & Stay Soiree package which includes: 2 Adults âDirect-To-Liftsâ lift tickets per day at Snow Valley Mountain Resort, night skiing included when available. Â Accommodations & parking. Breakfast for 2 at resortâs signatures lakefront restaurant, BIN 189.
Book at on phone at 1-888-236-2427 and online at either https://www.marriott.com or http://www.lakearrowheadresort.com
BIRTHDAY BONUS
Ski or ride FREE on your birthday! Please present a valid photo I.D. on your actual birthday at our Guest Services Office, located on the second floor above the Ticket Office, and receive a free all-day ski or snowboard lift ticket.
