How to have an awesome family day on the mountain
By Dan OConnell, SolVista Basin ski pro (and dad)
Family ski outings may start with high spirits and great expectations, but often end with frustrated parents and exhausted kiddos.
It can be a really difficult thing to pull off when youre trying to ski with children, and skiers or riders of varying interests and abilities, says Dan OConnell, Ski and Ride School Director atGranby Ranchs SolVista Basin in Granby, Colorado.
But it can be done; you have to be smart about equipment, flexible about expectations, and savvy with your planning. OConnell should knowhe not only holds the highest possible credentials in the industry, but has also raised two mountain kids who are currently up for spots on the U.S. National Team
Heres what parents need to know before hitting the hill with young ones:
To speak with OConnell and score more ideas for easy ski days and teaching tips for families, contact Kim DeLashmit atkim@orangeisfresh.com. For more information about SolVistas programming, events, andspecially designed family-friendly terrain, events, rentals and instructions, visitwww.granbyranch.com/ski
About Granby Ranch
Granby Ranch is a four-season mountain community nestled against the Continental Divide, located only 20 miles from the western entrance to Colorados Rocky Mountain National Park. The Ranch is home to SolVista Basin ski area, SolVista Bike Park, and Headwaters Golf Course, and offers chairlift access to thousands of acres of hiking and cross-country trails as well as world-class downhill mountain biking, a championship golf course, miles of blue-ribbon fishing and the friendliest family ski mountain around.With homesites from under $100,000, Granby Ranch is the ultimate family mountain community, with a variety of cabin, condominium and single-family home neighborhoods surrounded by protected open space overlooking wilderness and wildlife areas. Homes and lodging reflect the rich history of its rustic Colorado mountain community, with neighborhoods connected by trails instead of sidewalks, ensuring that kids grow up with an adventure around every corner. Visit for a dayor stay for a lifetime. Go towww.granbyranch.com for lodging options, activities, or to learn more about owning a mountain home at Granby Ranch.