So, you’ve decided to take on Kicking Horse with kids in tow. Whether your little ripper is taking their first wobbly turns or confidently bombing past you before you’ve even buckled your boots, Kicking Horse has something for every family—yes, even those who consider putting on tiny mittens a full-contact sport!
Step 1: Start Small – And Bribe Accordingly
Before you tackle the mountain, warm up in the Learning & Adventure Centre. This zone is ground zero for first turns and comeback tours—perfect whether you’re a total beginner, or a parent dusting off skills last seen when neon one-pieces ruled the slopes (and let’s be real, they’re making a glorious comeback). The Jelly Bean Express magic carpet makes those first attempts at gliding fun, easy, and (relatively) tear-free.
Parent Pro Tip: Pack pocket snacks. A well-timed granola bar has been known to prevent lift-line tantrums.
Want a little more kid-free time? Book them into daycare or an adventure lesson. They’ll get amazing care and professional instruction, and you’ll get a few guilt-free runs!
Step 2: Graduate to the Catamount Chair – But Don’t Rush It
Once your mini rippers have mastered stopping, it’s time to hit the Catamount chairlift. This is where things get exciting—but still manageable.
- Mid-Mountain Stop: Ease into it. Hop off halfway and let them test their skills on a mellow, confidence-boosting run before tackling the full chair.
- All the Way Up: Ready for more? Ride to the top of Catamount and explore some easy-to-intermediate trails. And here’s where Kicking Horse throws in a little magic—the Secret Kid’s Entrance! Hidden along the trail, this special kid-approved, banked turn run comes with fun animal signs and just enough adventure to make them feel like they discovered a hidden portal.
Parent Pro Tip: Go through it yourself. No shame. It’s fun!
Step 3: The Big League – But Make It Chill
You’re feeling bold. The kids are hyped. Time to take the gondola to the summit for unreal views and a victory lap down “It’s a Ten“—Kicking Horse’s 10-kilometre scenic cruiser.
- The Ride Up: The gondola offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama—a great moment to snap a family pic.
- The Glide Down: “It’s a Ten” is a long, gentle, easy ride with stunning views. Perfect for families looking to soak it all in without white-knuckling their way down a double black.
Photo credit © Maur Muzza Mere
Parent Pro Tip: “It’s a Ten” is a great trail for a friendly race—winner picks where to stop for hot chocolate.
Beyond the Slopes: Keep the Fun Rolling
Make après-ski a reward. Whitetooth Grill, Eagle’s Eye Restaurant, and Heaven’s Yurt are all family-friendly and delicious. And, if bedtime goes smoothly, maybe you and your partner tag-team for a Friday or Saturday evening shuttle into Golden—just saying.
Ready to Tame the Horse?
Kicking Horse might have a reputation for gnarly expert terrain, but it’s also an incredible family destination if you know where to look. Start slow, build confidence, and make the most of midweek deals by booking through Central Reservations—that way, you get the best value on multi-day lift tickets, rentals, and accommodations.
👉 Book now and make family ski memories that don’t involve parking lot meltdowns!
