ML Interest Tag: snowboard

8 Must-Go Places for Snow & Snow Play near LA

by Jennifer O'Brien

If you think googling ‘snow near me’ in Southern California is an oxymoron—think again! You don’t have to leave Southern California to play in real snow with these nearby winter wonderlands the whole family will enjoy

While planning your winter bucket list of activities in Los Angeles, you might be thinking about your favorite local holiday celebrations or which spot you should go to pick out your perfect Christmas tree. And while playing in Southern California snow doesn’t typically rank high on the list in this sunny region, thanks to some pre-winter storms, California mountains are covered in snow—making for some early openings for our local mountain resorts. Whether you’re a new or avid skier, a thrill-seeking snowboarder, into sledding or just want to make some snowballs making and throw them, this is the season to go have fun with the frozen stuff—even in SoCal.

 

A little girl wearing goggles slides down a hill on an inner tube at a snow play area near LA
Lee Stockwell BBMR

1. Snow Play at Big Bear Mountain Resort

Just two hours away from DTLA (well, sans traffic), you'll find Big Bear Mountain Resort (BBMR) which is now open and has Los Angeles skiing down to a science thanks to loads of snowmaking taking place over the past few weeks. If you've been hankering to get the family up on skis or a snowboard, this is the place to do it—we especially love their advance reservations for tickets, gear, and lessons—saving you from waiting in line and a ton of time in the process. For those not quite ready to feel the need for ski or snowboard speed, head to Grizzly Ridge Tube Park, located at Snow Summit. There you'll find a magic carpet ride that takes you to the top and you can choose one of three 300-foot tubing lanes. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Dates: Now-Apr. 2
Cost: $44-$59/day pass

BBMR
880 Summit Blvd.
Big Bear Lake
Online: bigbearmountainresort.com

2. Snow Play at Mammoth Lakes

Of course, we have a whole article on how to take your kids skiing at Mammoth but this mountain town offers more than just ski resorts near Los Angeles. Head to Woolly’s Tube Park for thrilling sled rides everyone will enjoy. For those 42” and smaller who aren’t tall enough to enjoy the ride, Woolly’s has a fun snow park area and heated deck serving up hot cocoa and adult beverages.

Dates: Nov. 25-27, Dec. 2-4, 9-11, Dec. 16-Apr. 9
Cost: $40-$55/two-hour tubing session

Woolly's Tube Park & Snow Play
9000 Minaret Rd.
Mammoth Lakes
Online: mammothmountain.com

3. Snow Play at Mountain High Resort

Wouldn’t it be groovy to spend less time on the road and more time playing in the snow? Located just an hour and a half away from DTLA, Mountain High is the perfect place to get away for a fun day of skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. With an incredible snow system that covers 80 percent of the mountain, the resort strives to make the very best conditions consistently possible for its visitors. First-time skiers and snowboarders (or ones just looking to brush up on their skills) can take advantage of lessons from a wide variety of highly experienced instructors.

Is tubing more your jam? Then check out Yeti's Snow Play—the all-day tickets will grant you access to tubing, sledding, snow play, and scenic sky chairs on Mountain High Resort, plus access to all the food and retail shops on the mountain, tables with fire pits, photo ops with Yeti himself and free parking. Make sure to check out the height restrictions before you go.

Dates: Mountain High is now open; Yeti's Snow Play opens Nov. 25
Cost: $30-$79/all day tickets to Yeti's Snow Play

Mountain High Resort
24510 State Hwy. 2
Wrightwood
Online: mthigh.com

4. Snow Play at Snow Valley Mountain Resort

Snow Valley, conveniently located in Running Springs, just 30 minutes from the base of the San Bernardino Mountains, is a super welcoming resort for a day of powdery fun. The resort features SoCal’s only chairlift-serviced sledding area (making it one of the best sledding near LA) and some of the longest runs in the region, making it the perfect place for kids (young and old) to sled to their heart’s content. Snow Valley also features award-winning ski and snowboarding lessons (both half-day and full) for all skill levels. Night skiing is also offered until 8 p.m. most days, weather permitting.

Dates: Opens Nov. 23
Cost: $129-$184 for kid's ski lessons

Snow Valley Mountain Resort
35100 CA-18
Running Springs
Online: snow-valley.com

5. Snow Play at Mt. Baldy

Located just 52 miles outside of DTLA, it’s the perfect way to work in some snow play without much road time. The mountain features four chair lifts that provide access to skiing and snowboarding on a wide variety of terrain. For tubing, take the Sugar Pine Chairlift to the Top of the Notch recreation area for snow play at 7,800 feet above sea level. Purchase three-hour tubing sessions (inner tubes and hard shells are provided) and when everyone is finished (and famished), head to the restaurant on site for some burgers and unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains.

Dates: Opens Nov. 24. for weekends through Apr. 30.
Cost: $71 for all-day snow play

Mt. Baldy
8401 Mt. Baldy Rd.
Mt. Baldy
Online: mtbaldyresort.com

6. Snow Play at Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain

With five runs, a deep snowpack, and a covered magic carpet to take you up the hill, Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is a swell place to spend the day frolicking in the powder. Evening tubing sessions are available as well. Want to create your own Cool Runnings moment? Check out the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain for an authentic bobsledding experience year-round.

Dates: Now through spring
Cost: $40/person; $25/child

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
800 Wild Rose Ln.
Big Bear Lake
Online: alpineslidebigbear.com

 

7. Snow Play at Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park

For the best snow tubing near me, head up to a little known spot, tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forest near Lake Arrowhead, Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park, SoCal’s oldest and largest snowtubing park. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs are available to riders so there’s definitely something for everyone in the family. Hours are subject to change due to weather and road conditions so be sure to call ahead and check with the park before you head out there. 

Insider Tip: This spot only accepts cash but they do have an ATM

Dates: TBD
Cost: $20/person, per hour; $10 parking

Snowdrift Snow Tubing Park
34600 Hwy. 18
Running Springs
Online: snowdrift.net

8. Snow Play at Mount San Jacinto Park

Easily accessible from Palm Springs, this snowy mountain top is only a short ride up the mountain. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway (the world's largest rotating tram car and not for the faint of heart), up and away to the top of Mount San Jacinto Park. Once you reach the top, you can do everything from go snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to sledding and snow camping. There are also two restaurants at the top in case you get hungry.

Dates: Open year-round; Snow is dependent on weather
Cost: $30/adults, $18/children (ages 3-10)

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
1 Tram Way
Palm Springs
Online: pstramway.com

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Hit the Slopes: 8 Amazing Places to Ski with Kids

by Angelica Kajiwara

Your kids will totally master the pizza wedge after a lesson or two at the best ski resorts near Atlanta

Life in Atlanta doesn’t come with a lot of snow or snow days. But we can go snow tubing or even skiing within a day’s drive of the city limits (hint: if you need a winter activity that doesn’t require a drive, why not hit a local ice skating rink) when snow is what your kids crave. No need to hop on a plane for your next ski adventure because we rounded up eight ski resorts near Atlanta for the perfect winter road trip. Get ready to pack up all your winter gear—it’s time to check out the best places to go skiing near Atlanta.   

1. Wolf Ridge Ski Resort

Just 20 miles north of Asheville, this North Carolina ski area includes 15 trails, a terrain park, four ski lifts, and the Wolf Ridge Tube Run. It's one of the best ski resorts near Atlanta. Half-day and full-day passes range from $25 and up for adults and students, and equipment, ski bib, helmet, and locker rentals are available.

Lessons: This ski resort near Atlanta provides a top-rated Snow Sports School that offers lessons for beginners to intermediates in skiing and snowboarding. The instructors are trained to give you the highest quality instruction with your safety as a priority.

Drive time: 4 hours from Atlanta

578 Valley View Cir.
Mars Hill, NC
Online: skiwolfridgenc.com

Related: 10 Skiing Tricks to Memorize Before Hitting the Slopes

2. Appalachian Ski Mountain

Be one of the first skiers to experience North Carolina's first RFID ticketing system. As a result, you'll get a more streamlined and convenient skiing and riding experience. And take advantage of Snow Day rates for students, teachers, and staff of all local schools when schools are canceled or released early due to snow. In addition, just one cold night allows the snowmakers to create fresh powdery snow. Tickets start at $25 for students. 

Lessons: Join one of the small classes grouped by similar ability in a fun, supportive, social atmosphere. Group lessons are for beginner or first-time skiers and snowboarders only. Stronger skiers will learn a ton in one of the more advanced training sessions. 

Drive time: 5 hours from Atlanta 

940 Ski Mountain Rd.
Blowing Rock, NC
Online: appskimtn.com

iStock

3. Sapphire Valley Ski Resort

Sapphire Valley Ski Resort is one of the best ski resorts near Atlanta. It offers affordable snow sports opportunities as part of a 5700-acre, four-season resort. With a moderate slope fit for intermediate skiers and ideal for youth and beginners—along with the Frozen Falls Tube Park—Ski Sapphire Valley is a convenient place to go skiing near Atlanta. Opened in 1964, a renovated Base Lodge Park, Fire Pit, and the new Slopeside Tavern are excellent options for family skiing near Atlanta. Day lifts start at $45 for children and adults. Clothing (ski bibs and coats) and equipment rental are available.

Lessons: This resort has a great learning slope with plenty of room, a gentle slope and easy to use moving carpet lift. Sign up for group training or splurge for a one-on-one lesson. 

Drive time: 2 hours, 45 minutes from Atlanta

127 Sapphire Valley Rd.
Sapphire, NC
Online: skisapphirevalley.com

4. Sugar Mountain & Beech Mountain

The sisters of North Carolina Skiing, Sugar Mountain is the largest ski area in North Carolina, with 115 acres of skiable terrain. At the same time, Beech Mountain's claim to fame is its personality (think quaint and Southern). Although both are excellent ski resorts near Atlanta with options for beginner to intermediate skiers, Sugar has the steepest vertical drop, but Beech boasts a higher elevation. The good news? Both locations offer alternatives to the slopes when the kiddos cash out (tubing, ice skating, snowball fighting). Half-day lift tickets start at $39 for adults, $27 for kids, and kids 4 and under get free lift tickets. Rental equipment is available, as is ski and snowboard school.

Lessons: The Sugar Bear Ski School is designed to teach skiing to children ages 5-10. All programs include slope tickets, rental equipment, helmet, lessons, lunch (full-day only), and supervision. In addition to lessons, Beech Mountain offers childcare so the adults can enjoy skiing, too. 

Drive time: 4.5 hours from Atlanta

Sugar Mountain
1009 Sugar Mountain Dr.
Sugar Mountain, NC
Online: skisugar.com

Beech Mountain
1007 Beech Mountain Pkwy.
Beech Mountain, NC
Online: beechmountainresort.com

Related: Cozy Up! 13 Winter Cabins for When You Need to Get Away

5. Wintergreen Ski Resort

Head East, and pick one of the 26 runs at Wintergreen that provide a bit of fun for everyone, along with Virginia's largest tubing park. No wonder it's one of our favorite places to go skiing near Atlanta with kids. A 100-foot-high massive hill lets riders hit speeds of 30 miles per hour on their way down. A separate ticket is required to ride here. Lift tickets start at $66, with rentals and equipment available. View the snowmaking progress by checking out its webcams.

Lessons: The Wintergreen instructors are waiting to help you learn how to ski or snowboard near Atlanta or to build on your existing skills. Choose from one and two-hour private lessons or our half and full-day kids' camps.

Drive time: 7.5 hours from Atlanta

Route 664
Wintergreen, VA
Online: wintergreenresort.com

6. Cataloochee Ski Resort

Cataloochee, the oldest ski resort in North Carolina, boasts fourteen different trails and runs on twenty-five acres about a half-hour west of Asheville. Three-quarters of the runs are either beginner or intermediate, and when the Littles get tired of the slopes, you can head into Maggie Valley for more classic family fun. Half-day lift tickets start at $47 for adults and $37 for youth, and full-day, half-day and night passes are available. 

Lessons: This resort's training is so popular that they only offer first-come-first-served group lesson slots. You can reserve a private lesson with a well-trained instructor if you'd prefer to book ahead.  

Drive time: 3 hours, 15 minutes from Atlanta

1080 Ski Lodge Rd.
Maggie Valley, NC
Online: cataloochee.com

7. Ober Gatlinburg

One of the closest options to Atlanta, Ober Gatlinburg's offerings include skiing, wildlife encounters (black bears, river otters, birds of prey, and other regional wildlife), tubing, ice skating, and plenty more in the town of Gatlinburg, just down the mountain tram. Those in the know suggest staying in downtown Gatlinburg or renting a chalet nearby and plan to save a little time to check out the Wilderness at the Smokies indoor water amusement park or even Dollywood, weather permitting. Keep in mind, due to the high demand for ski and snowboard rental equipment, Ober will suspend rental sales when they reach capacity (before regular closing times).

Lessons: Get the most out of your Ober Mountain winter experience by learning from the best. Learn the skills of gliding, slowing down, turning, and stopping, so you can safely capture the thrill and excitement of the sport.

Drive time: 4 hours from Atlanta

1339 Ski Mountain Rd.
Gatlinburg, TN
Online: obergatlinburg.com

Related: Snow Much Fun! 7 Snow Tubing Spots That Aren't Too Far

8. Snowshoe Mountain

The most similar to Rocky Mountain skiing of the resorts mentioned above, Snowshoe Mountain hits the top ten spots to ski in the East. Still, it is also the farthest from Atlanta (nearly nine hours). However, those brave enough to make the pilgrimage with little ones in tow will undoubtedly be rewarded. Ski lift tickets vary in price by the date and age of the skier. So book your tickets in advance, as they've limited the number of tickets available, and many dates sell out.

Lessons: Personalized instruction is given to skiers of all ages and abilities in group and private lessons. Skis, boots, poles, and snowboards are available for rent in the Ski Lodge.

Drive time: 9 hours from Atlanta

10 Snowshoe Dr.
Snowshoe, WV
Online: snowshoemtn.com

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Powder Time! The Best Slopes for Every Type of Skier

by Mary Martha Aubry

When the forecast calls for snow, we can’t think of a better way to spend the day than planning a trip to learn to ski. From day trips to worth-the-drive weekend getaways, we’ve found the best mountains for every skill level. Enroll your budding skier in one of these ski schools (one is over 75 years old!) and soon they will be yelling “Pizza pie and French fries!” as they fly down the bunny hill. Read on to find the right mountain for you and your family.

Beginner Slopes

Bryce Resort

Mary Martha Aubry

About two hours from Washington, D.C., Bryce Resort in Bayse, VA is the perfect day-trip destination to teach the littles how to ski or to learn as an adult. Everything at Bryce is family-friendly, from their ski rental shop which opens directly to the Little Nip to the biergarten at the bottom of the mountain where mom and dad can take a load off in the Adirondack chairs while watching the littles take the magic carpet up the Bunny Hill and ski down. For a fun family run, take the whole crew up the quad lift and down Revenuer's Run and remember what you loved about skiing as a kid as you watch your littles make a pizza wedge and begin their own skiing journey! Speaking of pizza, enjoy a delicious pizza at the Copper Kettle for dinner before you take your final run down the hill.
 
Insider Tip: If you're skiing for the day, pack a bag with the kids pajamas for the ride home. It makes the transfer from car to bed that much easier, and after all that skiing, they'll be exhausted!
 
Bryce Resort 
1982 Fairway Dr., Bayse, VA
540-856-2121

The Omni Homestead Resort

About four hours outside DC, the Omni Homestead has something for everybody, even the non-skiers in your crew. Luxurious accommodations, gourmet food, and a world-class spa combined with excellent beginner terrain make for a ski weekend that's heavenly and still driving distance from the city. The Omni Homestead has uncrowded skiing terrain that is ideal for beginners, and their Sepp Kober Ski School maintains an experienced team of ski and snowboard instructors who offer private lessons for all levels.
 
Insider Tip: Enroll the kids in the resort's Adventure Kids program and enjoy a romantic date night! 
 
The Omni Homestead Resort
7696 Sam Snead Hwy, Hot Springs, VA
540-839-1766
 

Intermediate Skiers

 

Wisp Resort

Wisp Resort

For those of us who really want to get our tykes outdoors, Wisp is the place to be. There are full and half-day programs for the little ones that include lift tickets, instruction and equipment (which let’s face it is half the battle). At about 180 miles from the District and near Deep Creek Lake Wisp offers more than just bunny slopes and black diamonds. Swoosh down hills in snow tubes, take to the ice on skates and explore snowshoeing or just sight see with a sleigh ride.

Wisp Resort
296 Marsh Hill Rd., McHenry, MD
301-859-3159
Online: wispresort.com

Blue Knob All Seasons Resort

Laura Corredor

Blue Knob is the highest skiable mountain with the most challenging slopes in PA. Clocking in at just three hours from Washington, DC, you may want to spend the night. The mountain boasts the longest and sweetest rides for skiers and snowboarders. If you're not sure about downhill skiing, Blue Knob also offers groomed Nordic or cross-country skiing as well as snowshoeing and snow tubing.
 
Insider Tip: Their New Generation Academy offers children a full day or half day lesson while enjoying lunch with their parents.
 
Blue Knob All Seasons Resort
1424 Overland Pass, Claysburg, PA
814-239-5111
Online: blueknob.com
 

Worth-The-Drive Expert Slopes

Mount Sunapee Resort

Kenneth Aubry

If you're ready to expand your horizons and experience more challenging terrain, consider New Hampshire's Mount Sunapee. It's an 8 hour drive or a 3 hour flight. With over 1,500 feet of vertical drop, and views that make you feel like you're in heaven, Mount Sunapee is a spectacular spot for East Coast skiing. Mid-week skiing is the best of all, with wide open spaces, fresh snow, and loads of great runs to explore.
 
Insider Tip: Locals in-the-know go to Bob Skinner's for their rentals and gear. This place is chock-a-block with great skiing and snowboarding equipment.
 
Mount Sunapee Resort
1398 Route 103, Newbury, NH
603-763-3500

Stowe Mountain Resort

Andrea Lacross-Dickerson

Stowe is a 9 hour drive from the city or a 3 hour flight.

Insider Tip: The New England experience is complete when you arrive at this Stowe, Vermont resort. With 75 years of experience their ski school has the tiny tot instruction thing down pat. When the slopes have worn you out families can nestle in for a sleigh ride, catch a big one while ice fishing or whiz around on skates. Daily tea with cookies for the littles is also offered and parentals can warm up with hot cider and appetizers. 

Stowe Mountain Resort
5781 Mountain Rd., Stowe, VT
802-253-7355
Online: stowe.com

—Mary Martha Aubry

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Carve, Ride, Repeat: Ski & Snowboard Lessons in Lisle (Yes, Lisle!)

by rtmarykatehickey

There’s a lot of great things about living in Chicago (the people, the sports teams, the hot dogs, the best pizza in the world) but let’s face it, the winters leave a bit to be desired. Cue Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports in Lisle for some much-needed winter fun for the whole family just 45 minutes west of Chicago. From ski and snowboard lessons for beginners of all ages to a challenging terrain park for the most adventurous of boarders, Four Lakes is the close-by cure for your winter blues.

The Basics

Maria Chambers

Four Lakes has been turning ordinary flatlanders into bona fide skiers and boarders through its Ski and Snowboard School programs for sixty years. A member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America, Four Lakes’ teaching methods are up-to-the-minute, reflecting the latest technical understanding and methodologies. Their experienced instructors make learning how to ski and board fun and safe, so you can rest assured that you and your mini snow carvers are in good hands.

Why It's Great for Budding Boarders and Skiers

Four Lakes is a great starter hill for kids with a budding interest in snow play. The facility itself is very small and is perfect when you're just looking for a couple hours of exhilarating fun, but aren't necessarily wanting to make a weekend of it. The hill little ones learn on is small, but not so small they get bored quickly. It'll take a couple of tries to master, but the tow rope makes getting to the top easy-peasy. Best of all, there's ample parking right at the entrance of the hill, so no lugging equipment (or tired skiers) too far.

Insider tip: If you're planning on hitting the hill regularly, we'd recommend investing in a pair of gloves with grippers on the palms. It helps little hands grip the tow rope and protects the gloves from tearing.

Ski School. . . Not Just a Great ‘90s Movie

ski, snowboarding, snow, winter fun, kids skiing
Kovshenya from Pixabay

Have a budding Bode Miller or mini-Lindsey Vonn on your hands? Four Lakes offers lessons for all ages and skill levels, both for skis and snowboarding. For the 2021-22 season, these lessons will be private or semi-private to reduce contact students have with each other on the hill. One-on-one private lessons are $60/hour. Semi-private lessons will be limited to 2-5 students per class and run $35/hour. Both private and semi-private lessons are typically available 7 days a week. 

Small, but Mighty

Four Lakes isn’t just for beginners. It's a great place to brush up on your skills before that vacation to Vermont or Vail. The entire area is open to skiers and snowboarders of any level, and they also offer race training for skiers and a terrain park with a variety of boxes, rails and pipes. Whatever your level of experience, Four Lakes can accommodate. Just ask any one of the 20,000 skiers and boarders who visited last season.

Day and Season Passes

You can purchase a season pass for $325 and rip it up on the pow pow (translation: ski or snowboard) from mid-December until the season’s over—usually late February or early March. Can’t commit to the whole season? Buy a daily pass when you get the itch—those range from $24-$30, depending on the day.

Birthday Parties

During non-COVID times, Four Lakes is a great place to throw a winter birthday party. The kids will enjoy getting outside in the fresh air for physical activity and you'll enjoy not having 15 kids in your home. Choose a package that includes slope tickets, lessons and rentals or any combination of the three. Pizza and unlimited soda are an additional fee, and they’ll block out a section of the cafeteria for your celebration.

‘Tis the season, so bundle up, grab your brain buckets (translation: helmets) and head to Four Lakes for outdoor fun this winter.  Be sure to check their website to make sure the hills are open.

Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports, 5750 Lakeside Dr., Lisle
Online: fourlakessnowsports.com

—Maria Chambers & MaryKate Hickey

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11 Next-Level Sleds & Toboggans You Need This Winter

by Kate Loweth

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

Have snow fear on your next snow day with these epic sleds and snowboggans. From classic to creative, you’ll be the most prepared parent on the block. Keep reading to get more info on our favorite snow gear for kids—we’ve got something for everyone from toddlers to teens.

Flexible Flyer Sled

$14.99 BUY NOW

Winter walks take on a whole new meaning with this baby sled. It's made out of solid plastic with a seat belt to keep your little one safe.

FUNBOY Alpine Winter Snow Sleigh

FUNBOY Alpine Winter Snow Sleigh

$99 BUY NOW

The inflatable sled is made for two with dual handles for easy downhill grip.

Mini Luge Sled from Zipfy

$76 BUY NOW

This mini luge sled for ages 5 and older is easy to steer, compact and comes in a rainbow of bright colors (helpful for keeping track of your downhill racers on snow days). With a low center of gravity and a belly-side tread, it'll only take a minute to master this one, and the anti-slip vinyl seat will help you stay on!

FUNBOY Retro Plaid Snow Toboggan Sled

FUNBOY Retro Plaid Snow Toboggan Sled

$129 for two BUY NOW

The FUNBOY Retro Plaid Snow Toboggan Sled is designed for up to 1 adult and 1 child.

Alien Snowtube

$24 BUY NOW

This 48-inch sled is big enough for two kids and sturdy enough to last a number of weekends of sledding this season.

GoFloats Unicorn Snow Tube

$35 BUY NOW

Hop aboard for some wintry fun with this unicorn snow sled that's going to make all the other kids jealous.

Foam Sled Saucer

BUY NOW

Kids will love this lightweight option so they aren't lugging some massive sled up the hill over and over again.

FUNBOY Snowmobile Snow Sled

FUNBOY Snowmobile Snow Sled

$99 BUY NOW

This is a fun take on the traditional sled that has you riding a snowmobile.

Plastic Toboggan, Set of 3

$77, set of three BUY NOW

Bigger kids and adults will like this longer option for sledding as you can really stretch out your legs.

Flexible Flyer Wooden Sled

$170 BUY NOW

We love the nostalgic style of this sled that a wooden base and steel runners.

Plastic Saucer

$42 BUY NOW

This classic style holds up well to lots of sledding and is easy for kids to cart around.

—Kate Loweth, Shelley Massey & Ayren Jackson-Cannady

featured photo: iStock

Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, all items were available for purchase. 

All images courtesy of retailers. 

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This Cool New Toy Lets Your Little One Join in on Indoor Cycling Fun!

by Kenzie Kramer
Partner Content

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Kids have a lot of energy to burn. And beelining it to the snack cabinet or swiping their tablets doesn’t quite cut it. Get your kiddo moving and grooving on their very own stationary bike— The Little Tikes Pelican Explore & Fit Cycle. Bonus points if it’s “parked” next to your grown-up version. Has working out with a buddy ever been so adorable?

Here’s why kids (and parents!) love the Little Tikes Pelican Explore & Fit Cycle.

They Can Go on Epic Adventures Without Leaving the House

The Little Tikes Pelican Explore & Fit Cycle takes indoor cycling up a notch by bringing kids on fun, interactive adventures. This cool bike offers 3 modes: free trainer-led adventure videos on YouTube, built-in audio-only journeys and play the music of your choice via Bluetooth™. Kids can keep the healthy vibes flowing as they experience the thrills of a mountain bike, snowboard or roller coaster. And to take the fun factor to new levels, the bike safely tilts back and forth for extra thrills.

It’s a Great Way to Be Active Indoors

No matter what the season, the Pelican is always ready to go (while actually not going anywhere at all!). Whether it’s scorching hot or—brrr—too cold, kids can move their bodies in a “just right” environment, whenever they want, regardless of the weather.

They Can Be Just like You

This bike is perfect for motivating children to create healthy habits along with mom and dad. If you already have a stationary bike, chances are your child thinks it’s pretty cool. Thanks to the Pelican, your kiddo can ride nearby and join in on the heart-pumping fun.

It’s Designed Just for Kids!

Made for children ages 3-7, the adjustable seating and handlebars make it a great fit as children grow. The lever can be adjusted to change the resistance of the workout from easy to more challenging. The coil spring mechanism, heavy-duty metal frame and textured grip handlebars ensure a safe, sturdy ride.

So what are you waiting for, let’s pedal to adventure!

 

Little Tikes Pelican Explore & Fit Cycle

$149.99 BUY NOW

 

 

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These Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream Sandwiches Are a Must Have

by Jennifer Swartvagher

You had us at cheesecake! Strawberry cheesecake desserts are everywhere. Kroger just added Strawberry Cheesecake Snowboard Sandwiches to its freezer selections.

Strawberry Cheesecake Snowboard Sandwiches

There are two layers in the middle, cheesecake flavored and strawberry flavored. The frozen confection is sandwiched between two vanilla wafers.

You can find the Strawberry Cheesecake Snowboard Sandwiches in boxes of six at Kroger. Each box  retails for just $1.99

There are other Snowboard Sandwiches varieties available at Kroger as well. Check out the vanilla, chocolate chip, Neapolitan and mini vanilla versions as well.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Kroger

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The Road to Gold: Training LA’s Future Winter Olympians

by Jennifer O'Brien

We’re giddily counting down (and hope you are too!) to the Winter Olympics in PyeongChang on Feb. 9th. Growing up, we’ve all probably imagined ourselves standing proudly atop the Olympic podium, gold medal gleaming around our neck, holding back the ugly cry as the national anthem plays. Way before the gold though, comes hours, days and years of hard work and training to become one of the most elite athletes in the world. Every Olympian has to start somewhere and we’ve got the scoop on how to do it here at home.

photo: Hollywood Curling via Facebook

CURLING

Hollywood Curling
An Olympic sport that continues to grow in popularity now that more and more Americans are learning what the heck it even is, curling involves two teams of four players each sliding stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area that is segmented into four concentric circles. Think shuffleboard on ice. One might be surprised to find love for such an unusual sport in sunny southern California, but Hollywood Curling is working hard to change all that. A member of the United States Curling Association, Hollywood Curling is fostering a deep passion for the sport by offering curling lessons and leagues that compete on a local, national and international level. “Learn to Curl” lessons are available for kids aged 8 and up throughout the year at ice rinks in Pasadena and Valencia and are a swell opportunity to learn the basics of the sport without any pressure. Most classes are filled with first-timers, so no need to worry about going for gold right out of the gate.

Tip: Check out Hollywood Curling’s website for the most up-to-date schedule of classes. Come to class in sneakers, a sweatshirt and loose fitting pants that allow you to lunge and move freely.

Hollywood Curling
818-850-6692
Online: hollywoodcurling.wildapricot.org

photo: Toyota Sports Center via Facebook

FIGURE SKATING

The upcoming Olympics are going to be more exciting than ever as PyeongChang is the first time competing figure skaters will be allowed to use vocal music in their Olympic routines. Think triple axles and sit spins to jams from Prince, Hamilton and maybe Foo Fighters as they fight for medal glory. But the real excitement comes from the tireless training these athletes have put in on the ice day after day in rinks just like the ones we’ve rounded up below.

Toyota Sports Center
Starting as young as 3 years old, Toyota Sports Center offers skating lessons for your aspiring Bradie Tennells and Nathan Chens. Group classes and private coaching are available, as well as specialty classes focusing on spins and jumps. The primary goal of every class is for each student to correctly learn all the skills presented before moving on to the next level.

Pickwick Ice
Pickwick Ice in Burbank has hosted its fair share of national skating champions over the years, so your tots will no doubt be in good hands in their figure skating program. Kiddos can start at age 3 and work their way up the ladder learning spins, jumps, transitions and everything they need to know to become the strongest skaters possible.

Pasadena Ice Skating Center
For those of you living closer to Pasadena, the Pasadena Ice Skating Center may be your best bet. Figure skating classes are offered year-round at all levels with each covering basic ISI (Ice Skating Institute) test level requirements. Private lessons are also available by appointment and occasionally on a walk-in basis.

Toyota Sports Center
El Segundo
310-535-4400
Online: toyotasportscenter.com

Pickwick Ice
Burbank
818-845-5300
Online: pickwickice.com

Pasadena Ice Skating Center
Pasadena
626-578-0800
Online: skatepasadena.com

photo: Blue Angel Snow Youth Ski and Snowboard Camp via Facebook

SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

Blue Angel Snow Youth Ski and Snowboard Camp
One thing all Olympic skiers and snowboarders have in common is their dedication to training on a consistent basis. With easy access to Mountain High Ski Resort, LA kiddos can now learn to master the slopes with more structure and regularity through the Blue Angel Snow Youth Ski and Snowboard Camp. This totally unique camp for young athletes offers five Saturday day ski and snowboard trips to Mountain High with round-trip luxury bus transportation, lift tickets, full days of instruction and mentoring from expert teachers, as well as lunch and snacks. The camp is open for youngsters of all skill levels ages 7-to-16. Snow coaching groups are age and ability matched with ten kids per instructor. For many families whose little ones truly want to learn the sport and improve their skills, this camp becomes a yearly tradition.

Tip: If your schedule doesn’t allow for the Blue Angel Snow Camp this year, be sure to check out the plethora of fantastic ski and snowboarding lessons offered daily at any number of resorts in and around LA from Big Bear Mountain Resorts and Snow Valley to Mt. Baldy and of course, Mountain High.

Blue Angel Snow Youth Ski and Snowboard Camp
Mountain High Resort
858-509-8926
Online: blueangelsnow.com

photo: Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain via Facebook

BOBSLEDDING

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
What kid didn’t dream of becoming an Olympic bobsledder after watching the movie Cool Runnings growing up? Ya man! Now, every pint-sized Angeleno can realize their dreams with Southern California’s only authentic bobsled experience, the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain in Big Bear. Open year-round, the Alpine Slide offers riders (young and old) the chance to steer their own sled down one of two long cement tracks filled with hair-raising high-banked turns and heart-pumping straightaways. Rides cost $6 a pop, but kiddos aged 2-to-6 ride free with an adult.

Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Big Bear Mountain
909-866-2646
Online: alpineslidebigbear.com

photo: Santa Clarita Speed Skating Club via Facebook

SPEEDSKATING

Santa Clarita Speedskating Club
For LA tykes who feel the need — the need for speed skating that is — check out the Santa Clarita Speed Skating Club. Group lessons in short track speed skating are offered to skaters as young as 5 years old at the Ice Station Valencia. Students are separated by age, ability, and size during lessons to make the most of their time on the ice. The Santa Clarita Speed Skating Club season runs September through April, so you still have time this year to give it a whirl!

Santa Clarita Speedskating Club
Valencia
661-373-3221
Online: scssc.net

photo: Toyota Sports Center via Facebook

ICE HOCKEY

If the enormous crowds at every LA Kings game are any indication, Angelenos have some serious goo-goo eyes for ice hockey. Luckily, we have some great rinks around town that offer lessons to aspiring young players who may have Olympic dreams of their own someday.

Toyota Sports Center
The Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo is the official training center for the LA Kings and offers a fabulous (and free) Kids First program that introduces kids to the sport. The Toyota Center also features ongoing classes, camps, and leagues.

Pickwick Ice & Iceland Ice Skating Center
For families who live in the valley, check out classes at Pickwick Ice in Burbank and their California Golden Bears youth hockey club. In nearby Van Nuys, Iceland Ice Skating Center offers kids’ hockey clinics on Wednesday evenings.

Pasadena Ice Skating Center
Not to be outdone in Pasadena, the Pasadena Ice Skating Center offers a variety of lessons for all ages and skills levels, as well as an in-house youth hockey league program.

Toyota Sports Center
El Segundo
310-535-4400
Online: toyotasportscenter.com

Pickwick Ice
Burbank
818-845-5300
Online: pickwickice.com

Iceland Ice Skating Center
Van Nuys
818-785-2171
Online: valleyskating.com

Pasadena Ice Skating Center
Pasadena
626-578-0800
Online: skatepasadena.com

Littles interested in trying out an Olympic sport? Let us know how it goes in the comments below. Who knows, maybe we’ll see them in 2022!

–Jennifer O’Brien

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Feel the Thrills at The San Diego Air and Space Museum

by Cherie Gough

Calling all future pilots, astronauts, math wizards and daredevils: The San Diego Air and Space Museum has awesome exhibits that will make your heart race and your spirit soar. And, parents, you’re going to like the new 2TheExtreme Math Alive exhibit that answers the age old homework question, “Why do I need to know this math anyway?” Here’s your insider’s guide to the museum and all it has to offer.

Photo credit: Math Alive

Just Opened: Math Alive 2theExtreme
Get ready to get excited about math. This high energy, hands on math-driven exhibit takes math far from sitting in a desk memorizing equations. Kids are encouraged by their bilingual robot computer animated guides to play with all the computer simulated exhibits.

As kids enter, adventure sports take them on a ride. They can hop on a real snowboard and enter into a virtual snowboard race. By playing with angles, kids try to successfully increase their accuracy and speed as they race down a video game mountain. Kids will also thrill at Ramp It Up, playing with variables that help them build the ultimate skateboard for ramp skating. No patience to wait in line for the next exhibit? Why not climb the rock wall, test your strength, and see how your arm span affects your climbing success?

Gamers will enjoy playing video games and hearing testimonials from their peers who designed the two games in Game Plan and who serve as successful models of using math in a cool way. The Curiosity Rover exhibit is an impressive display where kids test their programming and graphing skills to “drive” a model rover through a flat tabletop screen depicting Mars while they collect rock samples, searching for water on the red planet.

2theExtreme includes more than 20 engaging and interactive computerized modules that also explore math’s intriguing uses in the areas of style and design, the environment, and the entertainment industry and let kids feel the thrill of using math in its real life applications. The math concepts in the exhibit vary, but Math Alive is best suited to kiddos in grades 3-8.

Insider’s Tip: Math Alive 2theExtreme is an additional $5 to your admission ticket. But our estimation is its well-worth it for school-aged kids.

Photo Credit: Air and Space Museum’s Facebook page

Permanent Exhibits
There is much to see and explore in the museum’s regular collection. Upon entering the museum, you’ll discover a terrific space find: the Apollo 9 Command Module from the third manned Apollo flight in 1969. Future astronauts will want their picture taken with the module as well as a space rock, and astronaut’s space suits from this area.

Aviation fans will love seeing the huge Navy planes and helicopter that fill the sunny, central Pavilion of Flight. The museum also boasts a nice replica Spirit of St. Louis, a terrific collection of WWI and WWII planes with models in period gear “working” on the planes, and a more modern find: a Blue Angels jet.

As you walk through the exhibits, some favorite spots for kids are the planes and helicopters with steps up where kiddos can take a peak into the cockpit, and also miniature model planes just like the real thing they sit next to that serve as a cute photo op.

The Kids’ Aviation Action Hangar is a small space designed with toddlers and preschoolers in mind and has a few features that your littlest ones will enjoy. Sit in the cockpit of a mini plane, grab the controller, and feel the wind in your face. Pose for a picture on the “moon,” play with gears, space and aviation toys, or just sit and color a picture of a favorite plane.This is a good place to wind down if little ones are getting antsy.

Insider’s Tip: There are plenty of benches to take a seat and take it all in as your little one stretches his arms and runs free, pretending to be a plane in this open area.

Photo Credit: Chrissie O. via Yelp 

More Adventures to Have
Admission to the museum also includes entrance to the 3D/4D theatre which features interactive seats and special effects as part of their animated films, the only one of its kind in Balboa Park. For an extra fee of $8, older kids will feel the thrill as they climb into a simulator that surrounds them on all sides with realistic graphics as they roll,dive and loop through the sky. The newest simulator with six seats allows the whole family to ride the adventure together. Keep in mind, however, that riders must be at least 44-inches tall.

Don’t Miss
The annual Paper Airplane Festival takes place Sun., March 17 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Come make easy or challenging paper airplanes with volunteer Air Force personnel who get down on the kids’ level and  make you proud of your military and their leadership. Launch your favorite plane with hundreds of others outside the museum at 2 p.m. Kids admitted free with adult admission this day.

Insider’s Tips
You can score a super spot in the parking lot directly in front of the museum on most days, if you arrive before 11 a.m.

The Flight Path Grill offers family favorites on weekends and Resident Free Tuesdays and the sunny patio offers great views of planes flying into Lindberg Field.

Membership for a family of four is $96 per year and includes unlimited entrance to the museum, and discounts to the simulators, gift shop, parties,and camps.

Admission: $18/adult; $9/Kids ages 3 – 11; Free/Kids 2 and under

San Diego Air and Space Museum
2001 Pan American Plaza
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-234-8291
Online: sandiegoairandspace.org

Have you been to the San Diego Air and Space Museum? What’s your favorite adventure?

— Cherie Gough

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