Being Floridians we know there is no chance of seeing snow at home. So every year we like to plan a trip so the kids can see snow. Since it would be our first-time snow skiing with kids and toddler in tow, we had to do our research to find our destination. We found the perfect combination in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.
Transportation
While there are multiple options for transportation, we chose to fly since we were coming from Florida. We traveled on Southwest Airlines and flew into Milwaukee. We rented a car and traveled 2 hours to Wisconsin Dells. There is also an airport in Madison, Wisconsin that is a closer commute but it might cost you more money. For us, it was a cheaper option to fly into Milwaukee and travel the extra hour.
Snow Skiing With Kids At Cascade Mountain
As I mentioned above one of the things I was looking for when researching our trip was affordability. While there are many gorgeous places to go snow skiing with kids, it can also cost an arm and a leg. With us having first-time skiers our goal was for them to enjoy the experience but also have back up activities just in case it didn’t go so well. So when researching I was looking for a good pool and snow tubing. When searching I came across Cascade Mountain in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.
Ski School
Cascade mountain had kids ski lessons for $99. The cost included a three-hour session, a rental, a helmet, and a snack. If you already had the equipment it would be $60. The session was from 12 -3pm. Since my kids were both first-time skiers they were put in the same class. It was three students to one instructor. I don’t think the classes are typically this small. I think we just hit them on a good week when they were not very busy. They do ask you to stay out of view of your child during the lesson to prevent them from getting upset. With that being said if they are in the beginner class they stay right at the bottom of the mountain so it is pretty easy to keep an eye on your child without them seeing you.
We were very pleased with the lesson. The kids were happy when we dropped them off and they were happy when we picked them up. The only snafu that happened was that my daughter got hit in the head when she got off (fell off) the ski lift on the first try. No worries she was not hurt but the instructor said after that happened she refused to ride again. :/ (I don’t blame her.) Needless to say, one day of skiing was enough for my daughter but my oldest son was ready for another day after his lessons.
The Rest Of The Mountain
You might be wondering what Daddy, Mommy, and the little toddler did during the lessons. Daddy is a pretty avid skier/snowboarder so he hit the slopes during the lessons. While we were a little underwhelmed by the look of the mountain when we first arrived in Wisconsin Dells, my husband was pleasantly surprised by the number of runs Cascade mountain offered. Mommy and toddler had snow playtime and spent time in the snack bar area. Steps from where you exit the mountain there is a little snack bar area. We found plenty there to eat a meal and have fun little snacks while everyone else skied. While hanging out we met so many nice people. Everyone we encountered in Wisconsin was kind and very thoughtful. It was so nice to be greeted that way!
After finishing up our day of skiing we headed next door to experience Cascade Mountain snow tubing. Everyone in our group was allowed to snow tube-even the toddler-yay! We really enjoyed snow tubing but it was pretty cold so we only stayed about an hour to play.
Day one of skiing and snow tubing came to a close and we decided that the next day just Daddy and the oldest son would come back. We were thankful to have options for the rest of the family to do as well.
Great Wolf Lodge
Wisconsin Dells was a great choice for our family was because we chose to stay at the Great Wolf Lodge. While we have had many friends rave about the hotel we had never experienced it ourselves. Boy were we in for a treat.
Since we went in January and on a weekday we were able to get one of their family fireplace suites for a very affordable cost. Our room had two double beds and a pull-out couch. This was plenty of room for the five of us. There were actually several room options that would have been a great fit for our family.
The WaterPark
Just in case you were like us and you have never been to the Great Wolf Lodge let me share why it was such a hit for all three kids. The first perk included in the price of your stay is all-day access to the water park. Even though check-in is at 4 pm (or when your room becomes available), you can gain access to the waterpark at 1 p.m. This is great because if your kids are like mine they are ready to move from being pent up in the airplane and car all day.
To say the water park is unbelievable is an understatement (and I only experienced the indoor part!). The Great Wolf Lodge Wisconsin Dells has three sections to their indoor water park. When we first went in I was thrilled with the first room we walked in. It had a lazy river, several slides, and a pool to play and swim in. The kids and I were excited just with the prospects of this room. We were surprised to realize that there were two more large rooms with even more slides, kiddie play areas, and a wave pool. If you want more details on what you can find in each section you can find that here. You can also watch our youtube video on Wisconsin Dells below.
Other Additional Features
In addition to the water park, the hotel offers several other perks included in the price of your stay. Every night they have storytime with Great Wolf Lodge characters. While we didn’t really have time to participate in these, they also have a daily schedule full of activities you can participate in as a family. In the lobby, there is an animated show at the Great Clock Tower. They also have other activities that require additional costs such as a spa, a game room, and MagiQuest.
While the hotel has its own dining options, another perk is that there are other places to eat just outside your door. There is also an outlet mall within walking distance as well. We stayed so busy with the waterpark and skiing that we usually ate at the hotel or at one of the fast-food options just outside the hotel.
One of the biggest reasons we really loved the Great Wolf Lodge was that it provided an alternative to those who didn’t want to ski the second day. I stayed at the hotel with my daughter and toddler and we had plenty to do to keep us busy.
We had such a great time in Wisconsin Dells. I think my husband and I had just as much fun as our kids. Cascade Mountain provided a safe and fun place for us to go snow skiing with kids. The Great Wolf Lodge provided a place for us to spend time together as a family. I have no doubt that my family made memories to last a lifetime. We can’t wait to come back to Wisconsin Dells again!
Stay Peachy!
I’ve never really considered going to Wisconsin Dells in the winter. That looks like so much fun. I’ve never been snow-skiing, but Great Wolf Lodge looks fun by itself! We have a Great Wolf Lodge near us in Kansas City, but I’ve never been. Now I feel more inspired to give one a try!
It was really fun. You should definitely try it out. The benefit of going in the winter was the Great Wolf Lodge was much more affordable than going in summer. If you happen to decide to ski, Cascade Mountain is a great learning environment. Happy travels!
What fun! We take a ski trip every year and Cascade Mountain sounds like a great place – especially with the addition of a waterpark – perfect winter weekend.
Thank you! Yes we really enjoyed it and the waterpark was so nice for the kids and I to stay while Daddy took brother to ski 🙂
I haven’t skied in years, but this reminds me of how fun it is. And I have heard of Great Wolf Lodge, and always wanted to go. Great trip!
Thank you Lori. It really is a fantastic place-both Cascade Mountain & Great Wolf Lodge. I was actually amazed with all Great Wolf Lodge had to offer 🙂 Thanks for stopping by! Stay peachy!
A great family ski area
Yes it is 🙂 We really enjoyed our time there!
The Dells are so much fun for the entire family…even in the winter.
We agree! 🙂
We love the Great Wolf Lodge. So much fun in the winter. Maybe we should consider going this winter as it would be the girls first time to ski. I will look further into it. Thanks for sharing.
It is great! I’m sure your girls would love it. The bonus is definitely if they do not enjoy the skiing after you try you know you can always head to the water park 🙂 Thanks for stopping by!
Haven’t explored Wisconsin at all, but was interested in seeing the Dells at some point. Good to know it’s good for first time skiers. I’ve never skied due to growing up in SoCal and Florida, but open to new adventures.
Hera,
Thanks for your comment. We are not big skiers either being from Florida. You would love the Dells! You should definitely plan a trip sometime 🙂
Skiing in Wisconsin? Who knew!! There’s a ski resort about 15 minutes from my home in NC but it’s nice to know that I have option farther north from me. It looks like you all had a great time!
We have been to Great Wolf Lodge (in Grand Mound Washington) a couple of times and have enjoyed our stay both times. I loved reading about your family seeking a snow destination, as we are usually the opposite seeking the beach and sun, but we get a lot of rain at home during the winter and crave more sunshine.
So funny! You need to come visit us in Florida. We have plenty of sunshine to share 😉 I’m happy you enjoyed reading it!
Perfect way to split adventures with the family, skiing and great wolf. How fun. It must be hard if you love to ski and yet live in Florida. Thankful for southwest!!
Thank you! We really do love snow but I’m not sure we would love it so much if we lived in it 🙂 Thanks again for stopping by. Stay peachy!
Adorable kids and great to know about the family friendly options in Wisconsin Dells.
Thank you for your sweet comment and for stopping by! Stay Peachy!
I remember when my dad took us skiing when we were little. It was in the Catskill Mountains. These will be great memories for your children.
Thank you Jennifer! I appreciate your kind comment. Stay Peachy!
Hoping to do some kind of snow trip for our youngest. We moved from Michigan to Florida when she was 3, so she doesn’t really remember the snow.
You definitely should. It is so much fun. Especially for Florida kids 🙂 I hope you have a wonderful trip if you decide to go. Thanks for dropping by and leaving a comment!
I would be that first time skier. Looks like a lot of fun.
Wonderful! You should definitely get out there and give it a try. I actually enjoy snowboarding more than skiing but everyone is different as to their preferences. Thanks for stopping by! Stay peachy!
It’s been so long since I have been skiing. This place looks really cool and a lot of fun.
You should definitely get back out there 🙂 Thanks for your kind comments!
Wow looks like an incredible trip! Thank you for sharing your family’s adventures in this post!
Thank you! It was a great time!
Ah good times! You are brave to take kids skiing. Love them all bundled up, as they grow these will be amazing photos to share.
Thank you! We had a wonderful time. Stay peachy!
What great memories! I wish we had taken our kids skiing/snowboarding more when they were smaller.
Thank you. It was a great trip. My kids still talk about going there. Thanks for your comment. Stay Peachy!
Your adventure looked wonderful. While we see our share of snow, we’ve never been skiing. I’m not sure the slopes would be ready for our family 🤣
Thank you-you should try it-if the slopes are ready for my family they are ready for any 🙂
What a fun trip! Skiing and swimming! We have a similar place near us but haven’t done both activities with the kids yet. It is nice to have options!
Thank you! We had a blast! You should definitely check out the one local to you-it is so much fun! Happy travels!
Those are some cute little skiers! We love Great Wolf Lodge!
Thank you! Isn’t it great?! Thanks for stopping by. Happy Travels!
Your kids are so cute and what a great idea to start them when they are little! You’re brave too take it all on when they are young. I love this though!
Leigh Ann,
Thanks so much for your sweet comments. I think they are so much more resilient when they are little. I wish I would have learned when I was little 😉 Thanks again for your kindness!
Aren’t the little ones so cute on the slopes? They always bring a smile to my face. At least they don’t have far to fall when learning 🙂
Suzan,
Yes I agree. I think it is so much easier for them to learn for that fact alone 🙂 Thanks for commenting! Stay Peachy!
As I’m from the UK I’ve never really considered teh US for skiing. But I’m definitely going to do a bit of research and look into it!
Sian,
You definitely should 🙂 You would love skiing in the US. Thanks for stopping by! Stay peachy!
That’s great that you flew all the way from FL to go skiing! I live in MN, and even though Wisconsin Dells is pretty close, I’ve never been there. Looks like a great place for kids!
Ramae,
It was such a fun trip! We’ve never been to Minnesota before but I hope to get to all 50 states with the kids 🙂 You should definitely try to make it over to the Dells sometime. It looks like there is a lot of fun to be had there whether winter or summer. Thanks for stopping by!
So fun! We love Great Wolf Lodge! (Skiing and I are not friends though)
Melissa,
Isn’t it great? (the Great Wolf Lodge) Maybe you could try snowboarding-maybe it would be your friend 😉 Happy Travels!
I’ve only been skiing a handful of times and my son has never been. It would be such a fun family trip!
Christa,
You should definitely consider going. Wisconsin Dells would be a great place to teach your son!
THAT is good vacation planning! Our family LOVES Great Wolf Lodge. We also happen to live less than an hour from several large ski mountains. But it is expensive! My kids depend on outings with friends and their families who are avid skiers to get their mountain time. I really enjoyed reading this!
Karla,
Thanks so much! My husband jokes that once our kids are older that I’ll have to be a travel agent because I love planning trips so much 🙂 I understand skiing being expensive! That is one of the reasons we really enjoyed Wisconsin Dells. It was so much more affordable than other more common places. I’m so happy to hear you enjoyed reading it. Stay peachy!
What a great experience for everyone! Sounds like a fun family trip.
Thanks Cindy-we had a great time! Stay Peachy!
This looks so fun! I can’t wait to take my little snow skiing.
It was a lot of fun! I’m sure you’ll have a blast when you take your little one. Happy travels!
The info is great, but I can’t get over how adorable your kids are 🙂
Maria,
Thanks so much! That is so kind of you! Stay peachy!
What an exciting adventure for you and your family!!!! The memories you made? Wow!! Those smiling faces say it all. Hee, hee. Thanks for sharing. Great Wolf Lodge is on our bucket list of places to visit!!!
Thanks so much! We did make a lot of wonderful memories 🙂 You definitely need to go to a Great Wolf Lodge-they are amazing!
This place looks so beautiful. I hope to take our kids skiing someday. I would have never thought of Wisconsin, but it is definitely a place to consider after reading this. Thanks for sharing!
Brandi,
Thank you! Yes I never considered Wisconsin either until I realized how much cheaper it is to find one of these that aren’t quite as popular. It was such a great experience. You should definitely check it out when you decide to go. Happy Travels!
Oh my gosh! Your kids ski? I had my first ski lesson this past February and I was 52 and it was a massive FAIL! I did have fun, but I was lousy at it!
Hey Laura,
I don’t know if you’d call it skiing but they tried 🙂 Actually my oldest took to it pretty well. I’m proud of you for trying! What an accomplishment! Thanks for commenting! Stay Peachy!
This looks like such an amazing adventure!!! Our family is planning on going to Great Wolf lodge this year and I am so excited.
Jennifer,
Thank you! I’m so excited you are going to the Great Wolf Lodge. You will love it! Happy travels!
This post made me think of my first time skiing. It was at Stowe in Vermont. It took me about half an hour to go down the bunny hill. The children with whom I was skiing kept going back up and then passing me. Haha.
Dawnmarie,
I love it! Sounds like me when I go skiing. I always look as the three-year-olds zoom by me 🙂 Thanks for sharing! Stay Peachy!
Oh no way! Cascade was one of the first places I learned to ski too! Alpine Valley was the first for me 🙂
That’s so great that you learned to ski there as well 🙂 It is a wonderful place! Thanks for commenting. Stay Peachy!