Our Mount Snow ski trip with the Epic Pass was our family’s very first time skiing together, and we honestly didn’t know what to expect. From figuring out rentals to navigating the mountain with kids, we were hoping for an experience that felt fun and manageable — not overwhelming. Mount Snow delivered with approachable slopes, a welcoming atmosphere, and the kind of family-friendly setup that made our first ski trip in Vermont one we’ll always remember.
Why We Chose Mount Snow for This Ski Trip
There’s something about clicking into skis and looking out at a snow-covered mountain that instantly slows everything down. Our stay at Mount Snow’s Grand Summit Resort wasn’t just about where we slept — it was about the hospitality toward a first time ski familiy. Thanks to our partnership with Vail Resorts and the Epic Pass, we were able to fully lean into the skiing experience, focusing less on logistics and more on making new memories on the slopes.
We chose Mount Snow for our first ski trip because of its proximity to our home and rave reviews from our friends. The ski school came highly recommended by multiple parents who say their children learned all of the fundamentals during lessons. Mount Snow is a popular place for families in our area as it is located a little over two hours away in West Dover, Vermont (where we love to visit!). Also, Mount Snow offers a mix of beginner and intermediate terrain, with a layout that’s easy to navigate for first-timers while still offering variety as your confidence grows.
Skiing at Mount Snow: Our Experience on the Mountain
I will save you some time: We will 100% go back to Mount Snow! I cannot imagine how our experience at Mount Snow could have been any better. Of course there were some hiccups in the beginning, but at the end of the weekend we had no complaints. All of the stress stemmed from being an insecure first time ski family. If you’re reading this because you’re a nervous new skier – take a deep breath and get excited!
This trip is best for: families new to skiing, Epic Pass holders in the Northeast, and ski beginners who want a welcoming mountain for their first trip.
First Time Ski Family Fears
Truthfully, I was just as nervous as I was thrilled for our first day at Mount Snow. I was so self-conscious about my beginner status at an actual ski resort. Plus, there were so many things that could go wrong my mind was racing. What if I can’t ski? What if my toddler refuses to stay at ski school? How will I recover if I wipeout in front of a lot of people? What if my daughter doesn’t enjoy snowboarding and wants to go home?
There is nothing worse than starting off your first day skiing by miscalculating how long it takes to pick up ski gear and ski lesson passes. NOTE TO SELF: Ski prep takes time. It didn’t help my stress level when so many people were confidently walking to the slopes in their snow boots and helmets, with their skis casually resting on their shoulders. After my family was loaded up with our gear, we looked like a huddle of baby penguins, waddling to the slopes.
As I stood in line to pick up our lesson tickets. I wondered if they would give us stickers: “First Time Ski Family.” By the time we checked in with our respective ski school managers, we were flustered, emotional, and almost one hour late. Note to self: arrive early for everything and don’t expect anything to go quickly. Preparing to ski takes as much patience as learning to ski itself.
Our Amazing Ski (and Snowboard) Instructors at Mount Snow
My insecurities and fears were quickly squashed by anyone and everyone I encountered. From the staff in the ski rental shop (shoutout to Tyler) to the Moms I met in line to the ski school instructors (shoutout to Dawn and Zo) – everyone was SO nice. Throughout the ski weekend I did not meet a single person who judged anyone on their experience or ability. People were so kind, some even excited, about our first weekend at a ski mountain that it was impossible to feel like an outsider. I felt like we belonged at Mount Snow!
How the Epic Pass Made This Trip Easier
Having the Epic Pass completely changed the way we approached our first ski trip. The Epic Pass grants holders Epic Mountain Rewards, such as 20% off food, lodging, lessons, and rentals. Instead of worrying about lift tickets, we were already set to ski each day. Knowing where the Epic Pass works – like at Mount Snow – made planning simple. It took a lot of the friction out of ski travel and let us focus on what mattered most: time together.
Staying Slopeside at Grand Summit Resort
The Grand Summit Resort is located directly next to Mount Snow. Many of our friends rent homes or condos near the mountain, but for our first time skiing I was happy to be in walking distance of everything. My arms and legs were so wobbly after a full day of lessons that I don’t know if I would have had the strength to drive a car anywhere.
At night the Grand Summit Resort looks like a magical winter lodge – I really hope it stays adorned in twinkle lights throughout the ski season! During the first morning at the resort we discovered a freshly made snowman in the courtyard.
Note: Every staff member at Grand Summit Resort is hospitable. The kind housekeeper who helped me on the elevator when my hands were full. All of the women working at the gift shop. The front desk staff gifting my girls little ducks and smiling while answering our countless questions. The curbside crew and the restaurant staff – I don’t know if I have ever encountered so many cheerfully helpful people working at a resort!
Our One Bedroom at Grand Summit Resort
The convenience of being able to stagger down the hill after a full day of ski school to a cozy room is priceless! When I opened the door to room 212 at Grand Summit Resort I did not expect such a large space. The kitchen, dining, and living area blend into one, but it is huge! There is a sectional couch, dining table, multiple coffee/side tables, and one big set of doors that is actually a Murphy Bed! The entry area has two walls dedicated to hanging coats and ski gear, as well as a tile floor for wet boots.
Before discussing the other features of our bedroom I have to applaud the kitchen! I’ve never stayed anywhere with so many kitchen must-haves: microwave, stove/oven, dishwasher, wine glasses, skillet, and even a potato masher. A family could bring their own groceries and cook every meal in this space if desired!
Another happy surprise in room 212: a hallway closet wide enough to fit my XL tupperware tote filled with our snow/ski gear. The hallway led to the generous bathroom with double sinks and a tub/shower combo – perfect for our family of five. A quick right took us into the king sized bedroom, complete with nightstands, closet, dresser, and a door leading to a balcony overlooking the mountain. So. much. storage!
Our one bedroom at Grand Summit Resort was the perfect size for our family of five. Arbor, my youngest, opted to share a bed with me and my husband, but we could have easily set up her portable toddler bed. The big sisters were thrilled to sleep in the murphy bed! It can be tricky with bedtimes while traveling with a family of our size – not all grown-ups want to go to sleep at the same time as the kids. However, skiing all day is EXHAUSTING, so we fell into bed at the same time each night.
Where to Eat at Mount Snow
Mount Snow has so many dining options it is impossible to try them all in one weekend. During our stay we were able to eat a quick (but hearty) breakfast at Grand Country Deli followed by lunch at Cuzzin’s Bar and Grill and 1900 Burger. For dinner we enjoyed Harriman’s Pub & Kitchen and Iron Loft. Here is a rundown on our favorites from each Mount Snow dining establishment.
Breakfast: Grand Country Deli
The Grand Country Deli, located in the Grand Summit Resort, has the best breakfast burrito on the mountain. It was so tasty Annabelle requested one every morning of our stay. Not a breakfast burrito fan? There are plenty of other options in the Grand Country Deli for breakfast including grab and go options. We enjoyed freshly made bacon-egg-cheese english muffins, pancakes, homefries, bacon, and fruit smoothie drinks. There were also pastries, bagels, fruit and specialty coffee.
The GCD also has a wide variety of snacks, toiletries you may have forgotten (need toothpaste?!), wine and locally made products. P.S. Our ski instructor said we must try one of their outstanding lunch sandwiches next time we visit!
Lunch: Cuzzins Bar and Grill
I highly recommend taking a lunch break from skiing at Cuzzins Bar and Grill to fuel up! We tried the soft Pretzel Sticks with pub mustard and queso, as well as the Hippie Melt (think grilled turkey, avo and cheese on sourdough). The Quesadilla with chicken and Bloody Mary were also highly recommended by a friend (for good reason) – I love a pickle garnish!
Lunch: 1900′ Burger
While my husband enjoyed French Onion Soup, Caesar Salad, and an après ski beer at 1900 Burger, I actually took another ski lesson! He said both the soup and salad were fresh and delicious. We heard 1900′ Burger is known for their milkshakes and the girls will definitely be trying them next time!
Dinner: Harriman’s Pub & Kitchen
Harriman’s Pub & Kitchen was our first stop at after checking in at the resort. It is located in the lobby on the other side of the roaring fireplace. We started with Jaju Pierogies (still thinking of these) and Pretzel Bites (fought over the last one). Then we had the Pub Meatloaf (not your Grandma’s recipe but way better), Linguini Carbonara, Chicken Schnitzel, and the Canyon Sandwich. Everything was fresh, hot, and tasty! I will say, there is nothing better than dinner at a cozy pub with live music during the winter!
After the meal we spent some time chatting with our server, Lisa, and the manager, Jason, about life and working at the Grand Summit Resort. Their hospitality and kindness was so appreciated! Then on our way out, the chef brought over his White Chocolate Bread Pudding to go – it was out of this world!
Dinner: Iron Loft
Our last night at Mount Snow we took a quick drive down the mountain to the Carinthia Base Lodge where Iron Loft is located (on the top floor). The Iron Loft is a hidden gem everyone has to visit! Our meal was incredible from start to finish – with unique twists on classic dishes like the Arancini with creamy vodka sauce and a Burrata drizzled with lavender honey.
My older daughters went wild over the Broccolini Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken and Arbor loved the kid’s creamy white cheddar macaroni and cheese. While Brandon loved his Ribeye, I could not get enough of the Braised Short Rib and mashed potatoes. For dessert, we split the Chocolate Torte and Sprinkle Cake!
Not only is the service at Iron Loft impeccable (shoutout to Romello), but the bartender is so very talented! I highly recommend you try the Maple Old Fashioned!
Would We Visit Mount Snow Again?
Our Mount Snow ski trip with the Epic Pass was the perfect introduction to skiing as a family. The approachable slopes, family-friendly atmosphere, and easy access made the experience feel fun instead of overwhelming. If you’re new to skiing, traveling with kids, or looking to make the most of your Epic Pass in Vermont, Mount Snow is a destination we’d happily return to — and one I’d recommend for a first ski getaway.
Looking back, our Mount Snow ski trip with the Epic Pass taught us a lot — especially as a first-time ski family. Stay tuned for a follow-up post where I’ll be sharing tips we’d pass along to other families planning their own Mount Snow ski trip.
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