Beyond the Slopes: Ski Trips for Non-Skiers
How to choose a mountain town with plenty to do for the people who would rather not ski.
Get Free Ski Trip QuotesA Ski Trip for People Who Do Not Ski
Not everyone in the group wants to ski every day, or at all. The good news is that the best mountain towns have plenty to do off the slopes. Choosing the right destination is what makes the trip work for everyone.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Gentle ways to get into the snowy forest, often on groomed trails from a Nordic center.
Dog sledding and sleigh rides
Offered by local outfitters in many ski regions; book ahead for popular times.
Scenic gondola rides
Many resorts sell sightseeing tickets for foot passengers to ride up for the view and lunch.
Spas and pools
Hot tubs, heated pools and spa treatments are part of the appeal of many mountain resorts.
Ice skating and tubing
Fun for children and adults who never want to click into a binding.
Dining, shopping and galleries
A walkable village with good restaurants turns evenings into the highlight of the day.
Non-skiers also need a plan for the hours when everyone else is on the mountain. Ask the resort or your hotel what runs in the daytime, from cooking classes and museum visits to guided walks around town, and pick lodging with a pool, a comfortable lounge or a good view so downtime feels like part of the holiday.
Choosing a Resort for a Mixed Group
If some of your group will not ski, avoid resorts that are little more than a base lodge. Look for a real town or a lively pedestrian village, with places to walk, eat and shop, and good transport so non-skiers are not stranded while others are on the mountain.
Historic mining and railroad towns in the American West, villages in the Alps and lakeside resorts all tend to offer more off-slope life. In the United States, Best of the USA highlights restaurants and things to do in mountain destinations.
Making It Work Day to Day
- Meet for lunch at a mountain restaurant reached by gondola, so non-skiers can join.
- Book one shared activity such as a sleigh ride dinner or a snowshoe tour.
- Choose lodging in the village center rather than on a remote slope.
- Consider a beginner lesson anyway. Plenty of “non-skiers” discover they enjoy it once the fear is gone.
Need a hotel in town rather than at the lifts? Compare options on Rooms Cheap.
Booking off-slope activities
Guided snowshoe walks, dog-sled rides, sleigh dinners and spa treatments are run by a mix of resorts and independent local operators, and the best time slots go early in holiday weeks. Ask your travel specialist to reserve them with the rest of the trip, and check the cancellation terms, because mountain weather sometimes forces changes.
Plan a Mountain Trip for the Whole Group
Skiers and non-skiers together: a specialist will find a mountain town with plenty for everyone and quote the whole trip.
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